Marei Kane, an English teacher at Menlo-Atherton High School in Atherton, was named 2013 San Mateo County Teacher of the Year in the category of middle- and high-school teachers, according to Anne Campbell, county superintendent of schools.

Ms. Kane also teaches English for students from homes in which native languages other than English are spoken. She speaks five languages, is well traveled and brings to her students "a global perspective and a passion for learning," the county Office of Education said in an announcement.

Among her enthusiasms are the teaching of writing, including the fundamentals, and helping students develop their own voices.

"Ms. Kane is remarkable for her many skills and talents, but in particular, for how she meets the needs of all learners, scaffolding rigorous and engaging lessons for students of all abilities," Ms. Campbell said.

She is "a true innovator and educational leader," M-A Principal Matthew Zito said in the statement.

Ms. Kane has a bachelor's degree cum laude in English from San Francisco State University and teaching credentials in English and German. She taught in the San Francisco Unified School District before coming to M-A and the Sequoia Union High School District.

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