Pocatello Teacher Amy Bidwell Receives 2024 ISU Cooperating Teacher Award

The Idaho State University College of Education is pleased to acknowledge an outstanding cooperating teacher at the end of each semester. Amy Bidwell from Indian Hills Elementary School in Pocatello has been chosen as the recipient of the Spring 2024 ISU Cooperating Teacher Award. 

Bidwell was nominated by Idaho State student teaching candidate Lindsey James, and her ISU University Supervisor Jill Serpa for her outstanding mentorship and dedication to the teaching profession. Described as having a warm and inviting classroom, Bidwell’s lesson plans centered on ensuring students were learning with all their senses by incorporating physical movement and learning by doing. Bidwell is credited for being kind to her students while also providing strong discipline which forms a mutual respect between teacher and student. 

Bidwell graduated from Idaho State’s College of Education in 1998 with degrees in early childhood education and elementary education. Throughout her career, she has worked as the Early Childhood Librarian at Marshall Public Library and taught a variety of grades for Idaho Virtual Academy. Since 2014, Bidwell has been teaching 3rd grade at Indian Hills Elementary. 

James’ shared that her inspiration for wanting to become a teacher has only grown stronger since completing her student teaching under the guidance of Bidwell. “Amy's dedication to creating dynamic lessons and nurturing student relationships fostered an environment where learners felt not only safe but also genuinely happy,” said James. “From the moment I stepped into her classroom, Amy welcomed me with open arms, generously sharing her wealth of knowledge and effective classroom management strategies.”

Providing James with the motto, “you never know what will work unless you try”, Bidwell’s ongoing advice, commitment, and support to James encouraged her to experiment with new teaching approaches even on the most challenging days, which she described as instilling a level of confidence and resilience in her. James graduated in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the College of Education. She plans to continue her education and join the College of Education’s Athletic Administration Master’s Degree program in the fall. She is grateful for the enriching educational experience she received during her student teaching semester and for Bidwell’s influence that will shape her future teaching career.