She is an innovative instructor who challenges her students to learn rich mathematics in meaningful ways. Her exceptional teaching skills were evidenced in 2016 when she was one of seven Montana finalists chosen for the prestigious national Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. In addition to being an exceptional instructor, Dacia has taken on leadership roles in the district helping to evaluate math and science curriculum and leading teachers in professional development. She also works collaboratively with university faculty on research projects and has published two articles describing her classroom work and lessons in Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School.