March 10, 2025

Lindbergh High School teacher Charlie Yeldham has been honored as one of Missouri’s Outstanding Beginning Teachers by the Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education. He was honored on Feb. 17 at the MACTE spring conference. 

Yeldham teaches World History and Project-Based Learning U.S. History at Lindbergh High School. When asked what he loves most about teaching, Yeldham shared “I love seeing how my students grow not just in their understanding of history, but in how they use this understanding to see the world differently.”

Yeldham is a 2023 graduate of Washington University in St. Louis and was nominated by his university supervisor, Dr. Jessica Bockskopf.

“Charlie has quickly emerged as an exceptional educator who brings history and social studies to life with remarkable passion and creativity,” Bockskopf said. “His innovative teaching approach transforms traditional classroom learning by incorporating contemporary connections that make historical concepts deeply relevant to his students' lives.” 

At school, Yeldham’s administrators and fellow teachers respect his ability to connect with students and make complex social studies concepts accessible and exciting, while simultaneously nurturing students' analytical skills and global awareness. Through carefully designed learning activities, Mr. Yeldham encourages critical thinking and empathy, helping teenagers understand the nuanced complexities of social and political systems. 

"Right out of the gates, Mr. Yeldham has shown an uncanny ability at engaging with his students,” said LHS Principal Dr. Eric Cochran. “He does this primarily in two ways. First, he is a kind and genuine person who treats all of his students with great respect. Second, he creates lessons that help to bring the material to life and allow the students to see the relevance to their own lives. He is an exciting young teacher!"

The Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE) is a state affiliate of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) and represents the educator preparation programs across the state.  

The Outstanding Beginning Teacher Awards recognize teachers in their first two years of service who demonstrate excellence in serving children in school districts across Missouri.  Award recipients were selected based on recommendations from Missouri’s teacher education programs and a recommendation from honorees’ school districts. 

All of the Outstanding Beginning Teachers received an award packet to commemorate their accomplishments, including a banner for display in their classroom or school.  MACTE recognizes the contribution of these extraordinary teachers, as well as all of our excellent, highly qualified teachers throughout Missouri who serve and educate our students. 

To view the full list of award winners and their incredible stories, please go to https://macte.net/outstanding-beginning-teacher-awards.