LEWISTON – A Lewiston elementary school teacher was named Maine’s 2006 teacher of the year on Thursday.

Donna Tardif’s selection was announced at a surprise assembly at the Montello Elementary School in Lewiston, where the 12-year veteran teaches kindergarten. State Education Commissioner Susan Gendron, who made the announcement, called Tardif “a talented educator, who exemplifies many of the qualities in this, the noblest of all professions – teaching.”

Previous teachers of the year and several legislators also attended the announcement. The program is sponsored by the state Board of Education and funded by Hannaford Supermarkets.

Tardif will go on to compete for national honors.