Tim and Terra Marsden receive award

Terra and Tim Marsden have been selected as the recipients of the 2026 Faye and Larry Brandstetter Creative and Motivational Teacher Award, an honor that recognizes exceptional educators who inspire students through creativity, innovation, and meaningful engagement.
Established in honor of Larry Brandstetter and the late Faye Brandstetter, the award recognizes certified Red Oak teachers who embody passionate, creative, and standards-based instructional practices while consistently motivating students to achieve at high levels. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize that recipients may use for any personal or professional purpose they choose.
The Marsdens were selected for their outstanding commitment to creating learning experiences that engage students in meaningful and memorable ways. Through music, performance, and the arts, they have developed programs that challenge students to think creatively, collaborate with others, and reach their full potential.
Together, Terra and Tim have built learning environments where students are encouraged to take risks, express themselves, and discover talents they may not have realized they possessed. Their classrooms and performance spaces are known for high levels of student engagement, enthusiasm, and achievement.
The Brandstetter Award specifically recognizes educators who develop and implement imaginative instructional practices that lead to significant student outcomes. Throughout their careers, the Marsdens have exemplified these qualities by creating opportunities that go beyond traditional instruction and allow students to connect deeply with content through authentic experiences.
Whether preparing students for concerts, musical performances, contests, or community events, the Marsdens consistently inspire students to interact with learning in creative and meaningful ways. Their work not only develops musical skills but also fosters confidence, teamwork, perseverance, responsibility, and leadership.
A hallmark of the award is recognizing teachers who motivate diverse groups of students to meet or exceed their potential. The Marsdens are widely respected for their ability to identify and nurture the unique strengths of every student. They create an inclusive environment where all students are valued and challenged to grow, regardless of their background or experience level.
Students, families, and colleagues often describe the Marsdens as educators who bring out the best in those around them. Their passion for teaching is evident in every performance, rehearsal, and interaction, and their positive influence extends far beyond the classroom.
The values reflected in the Brandstetter Award—creativity, innovation, engagement, and a commitment to student success—are evident throughout the Marsdens’ work. Their dedication has enriched the educational experiences of countless Red Oak students and strengthened the district’s tradition of excellence in the arts.
As recipients of the 2026 Faye and Larry Brandstetter Creative and Motivational Teacher Award, Terra and Tim Marsden are being recognized not only for their exceptional teaching but also for the lasting impact they have made on generations of students.
The Red Oak community congratulates Terra and Tim Marsden on this well-deserved honor and thanks them for their continued commitment to inspiring students to learn, grow, and achieve.

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