A teacher at West Junior High in Hopkins was named Minnesota Middle-Level Educator Teacher of the Year this month by the Minnesota Middle School Association.

Kim Campbell has worked at West since 1999, the school district said on its website. She has written two books and several articles on innovative teaching techniques and classroom management strategies.

On the district's website, Campbell's colleagues described her as a passionate teacher known for inspiring students to do their very best.

"I learned many years ago that relationships are what matters first -- after those are established, you can dive into the delivery of rigorous, engaging lessons," Campbell told the district.

"I firmly believe that the greatest gift a veteran teacher can give to their school is to be a positive voice in times of cynicism and doubt, to listen, model and encourage young teachers," she added.