AURORA, Colo. (CBS4)- A social studies teacher at Rangeview High School in Aurora has been named 2013 Colorado Teacher of the Year.

Amanda Westenberg was selected for the honor based on her expertise, the student achievement results she receives from her classroom instruction and her ability to inspire students.

She says she made the decision to enter into the field of education hoping to create a community in which students could feel safe, cared for and cherished.

As Teacher of the Year, Westenberg will get many professional development opportunities through the National Teacher of the Year program, will attend a ceremony at the White House and go to space camp for a week.

“We know that there is no more important school-based factor in a child’s education, than an effective teacher in the classroom,” said Dr. Helayne Jones, President and CEO of the Colorado Legacy Foundation. “We are pleased to make this investment in the 2013 Colorado Teacher of the Year.”

Westenberg has been in education for eight years and serves as the social studies department chair at Rangeview High School.

She’s developed interactive Advanced Placement curriculum and feels her mission is to enable students to become literate thinkers with the skills to succeed in their post-secondary pursuits.