A 2009 Marion High School graduate is the recipient of a statewide award for first-year teachers given by the state Department of Education.

Colleen Tajchman, a teacher at Derby Hills Elementary School in Derby, was among 32 first-year teachers honored through the Horizon Award program, which recognizes outstanding teaching skills.

All school districts were eligible to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher.

Tajchman will receive her award at a state education conference Feb. 16 in Topeka.