Ana Castro, a Spanish teacher at duPont Manual High School (Jefferson County), has been named a 2014 Claes Nobel Educator of the Year by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS).

Castro is one of 10 educators chosen for the annual awards from among NSHSS’s student-nominated Claes Nobel Educators of Distinction program, which recognizes educators who model best practices in teaching, are a positive influence for students and peers and who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in education as well as community engagement.

Educator of the Year selections are based on demonstrated passion and dedication to education, students and the community, as well as recommendations.

She will receive a $500 award and will be recognized at the Carter Presidential Center Scholar Recognition Event on Dec. 6 in Atlanta.