Bluffton middle school teacher, Dina Tadena, was recently named the Northwest Region Teacher of the Year at the Ohio Middle Level Association (OMLA) state conference, according to Kyle Leatherman, middle school principal.

She teaches sixth and seventh grade math at the Bluffton Middle School.

Six Ohio regions awarded teachers based on performances both in and out of the classroom. Jay Clark, Van Buren Middle School principal and OMLA board member, presented her with the award.

"Dina has simply inspired and impacted all of her students she has taught," said Leatherman. "Her enthusiasm, love, and passion for teaching have shown through in her daily efforts as she spends countless hours not only working with the kids of Bluffton, but parents too, so that the kids receive the best possible education.