German Teacher Lorenz named 2025 World Language Association Teacher of the Year

MANHATTAN — Elke Lorenz, a German language instructor at Manhattan High School, has been named the 2025 World Language Association Teacher of the Year, recognizing her dedication to fostering intercultural understanding and language proficiency among her students.

Lorenz, who emigrated from Stuttgart, Germany, has spent her career at Manhattan High School cultivating a passion for German language and culture among American students. The award honors her innovative teaching methods, commitment to student engagement, and efforts to create immersive language-learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom.

"Mrs. Lorenz exemplifies the highest standards of language instruction," said a representative of the World Language Association. "Her work demonstrates how exceptional educators can transform the way students connect with world languages and cultures."

A native of Stuttgart, Lorenz has organized multiple student exchange programs between Manhattan High School and partner institutions in Germany, providing students with direct immersion experiences. She has led summer trips to Germany for high school students and has hosted German exchange students at Manhattan High School, fostering meaningful cultural connections across the Atlantic.

The award recognizes excellence in teaching and outstanding contributions to the world language profession. Recipients are selected based on demonstrated commitment to student learning, innovation in curriculum and instruction, and advocacy for language education at local, regional or national levels.

Lorenz joins a distinguished group of language educators honored through the World Language Association's recognition program, which celebrates educators who strengthen intercultural understanding and promote the value of multilingual communication in an increasingly globalized world.

"Language teachers like Elke play a crucial role in preparing students to engage meaningfully with diverse cultures and perspectives," the association noted in announcing the award. "Her dedication serves as an inspiration to educators nationwide."

The World Language Association recognition program is part of broader national efforts to elevate the status of language professionals and highlight excellence in foreign language instruction. Awards are presented annually to K-12 and post-secondary educators whose work exemplifies best practices in language teaching and learning.

Lorenz holds a teaching position in the Manhattan High School foreign language department, where she has developed curriculum that emphasizes communication, cultural competency and real-world language application. Her students have consistently achieved high proficiency levels on standardized language assessments and have expressed increased confidence in their ability to communicate in German.

In her role as an educator and cultural ambassador, Lorenz has also contributed to professional development initiatives for other language teachers, sharing innovative teaching strategies and best practices in language instruction.

The award was presented during the World Language Association's annual conference, which brings together language educators and advocates from across the United States to discuss trends, share resources, and celebrate excellence in language education.