Clark County Educator Named 2025 History Teacher of the Year
October 30, 2025
CARSON CITY, Nev. – The Nevada Department of Education proudly recognizes Mitchell Kalin as Nevada’s 2025 Gilder Lehrman History Teacher of the Year.
Kalin, a recently retired history teacher from Leavitt Middle School in Las Vegas, was honored on Oct. 15 during a ceremony at his school.
“Mr. Kalin’s teaching went beyond dates and events by challenging students to ask why history happened and why it matters today,” said Dr. Victor Wakefield, Superintendent of Public Instruction. “Through his innovative approach to teaching the Holocaust, he brought history to life by incorporating survivor testimonies and encouraging students to connect lessons from the past to their world today.”
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History – a New York-based nonprofit organization – celebrates outstanding K-12 educators across the country who demonstrate a deep commitment to teaching American history and inspiring students through inquiry, storytelling, and reflection.
Kalin was nominated last school year for Nevada’s Gilder Lehrman award and represented the Silver State in the national program.
“Mr. Kalin had a unique and creative way of engaging students while discussing history,” said Jhone Ebert, Superintendent of the Clark County School District. “Through his dedication, Mr. Kalin helped students connect with our nation’s past in ways that are impactful beyond the classroom. CCSD is proud to have such a valuable educator recognized for his accomplishments.”
“Mr. Kalin’s classroom was a place where students not only learned history — they experienced it,” said Lana Roper, Principal at Leavitt Middle School.
“Mitchell’s energy and dedication to teaching tough topics helped students not only gain knowledge and understanding but also develop empathy and awareness of the human experience,” said Amanda Hughes, Education Programs Professional for Social Studies at the Nevada Department of Education. “His classroom was a model of how history can inspire thoughtful, compassionate citizens.”
Attachment
About the Nevada Department of Education
The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) leads and collaborates with Nevada’s 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Carson City and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State, working to achieve its mission to improve student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators. Learn more at https://doe.nv.gov/ and join us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram.