Write-ups for 2006 Mentor Awards

 

Nominee:  Robin Carlson

Nominated by:  Nikki Kandolin

Robin is a phenomenal manager.  She did a fabulous job instructing me in all the different responsibilities of working in the school kitchen.  Any time I have seen a problem arise, she handles it with complete grace and professionalism.  This past year I have had some difficult personal issues.  Robin has been extremely understanding, comforting and encouraging.  I feel Robin deserves recognition for the spectacular job she does and for the wonderful person that she is.

 

 

Nominee:  Gary Cesca

Nominated by:  Aline Hoffman

He is an outstanding advocate for students here at CHS.  Gary seems to be able to develop positive rapport with students and staff.  He has been a welcomed consultant for me, an easy person to talk to, as well as a non-judgmental team member!

 

 

Nominee:  Jerry Dickerson

Nominated by:  Michael Piantanida

He is always willing to help you and show you things you need to know.

 

 

Nominee:  Kenneth Goodale

Nominated by:  Jeff Spivey

Ken wears so many hats for our school it is sometimes difficult to figure out what he is doing at any give point.  He has helped build my confidence as a teacher as we have consulted on a huge number of ideas with science, math, and athletics.  We have worked on budget and technology together.  I have learned a tremendous amount from his experiences in athletics and coaching.  I don’t think I would have remained a teacher here or anywhere else let alone coach 2 sports had it not been for the influence of Ken Goodale, a man I am proud to call a friend and a brother.

 

 

Nominee: Warren Herrington

Nominated by: Gabriel Kendall

Warren was one of the first people I met back when I began my student teaching.  His sense of humor and connections with students inspired me.  When it came time to complete my “BEST” portfolio he gave very clear guidance and was instrumental in keeping me upbeat through the process.  I’m happy to be his hall neighbor at CHS.  Thanks for your help and support!

 

 

Nominee:  Carol Krysiak

Nominated by:  Jeanne LaHouse

We were very fortunate when Carol came to GHR.  She brought with her a positive attitude and sunny disposition.  We all know how hard our secretaries work and how the schools would be without them.  Carol always has a smile for us and a cheerful hello, no matter how her day is going.  One Sunday Carol took time from her busy weekend to come to GHR and plant flowers in the flower boxes that are in front of the school.  Carol is a caring, thoughtful person.  We are very grateful she is with us.

 

 

Nominee:  Patrick Leighton

Nominated by:  Elizabeth Trosell

Although it is Pat’s first year at Coventry, his support has been amazing.  I had a huge struggle with curriculum and many other things, especially at the beginning of the year.  He was a shoulder to cry on and offered words of inspiration that got me through the year.

 

 

Nominee:  Dale Maxwell

Nominated by:  Paula Farley

Dale was my informal mentor months before she became my formal one.  At the end of the last school year, when I found out I would be teaching here (CHS) for the 2005-2006 school year, she gave me her phone number and we got together to talk and plan over the summer!  She has always been available for help at home, as well as at school.  She emails me and visits me regularly to check in (in case I don’t come to her) to see if I need help.  And since I am a part-time teacher and have no classroom of my own, I was assigned to teach in a math classroom, and Dale volunteered her room to me during her only planning period so I could teach in the social studies hallway.  She has invited me into her home for dinner and has stayed late after school talking with me, encouraging me and giving me advice.  She has been priceless.

 

 

Nominee:  Denise McDermott

Nominated by:  Carla Kennedy

Denise McDermott is a creative and dynamic addition to the classroom.  She uses a variety of materials, resources, and techniques to enhance and enrich the learning environment of the students.  Denise goes above and beyond her appointed duties to ensure that every student in the classroom understands and conceptualizes the information being presented in the units and in the classroom lessons.  Denise also builds strong collegial relationships among students, positively supports students, and makes them feel comfortable in the classroom by lessening their anxiety about school and learning.  Furthermore, she spends countless hours nurturing students in small group settings.  Denise is more than a paraprofessional in the classroom; she is a dedicated member of our teaching staff.

 

 

Nominee:  Joan Meldrum

Nominated by:  Ellie Rhoades

I have known Joan for 20 plus years…

If you look up the word mentor in the dictionary you will find this definition – “a wise and trusted counselor.”  I would have to say that Joan Meldrum fits that description.  This school year has been difficult for me with the loss of my father and some medical issues.  Joan has been there for me, advising me to “take care of myself, your health is most important.”  Everything is in good hands with Joan.  She is a selfless and strong woman.  Even when things were difficult in her life, she came to school and carried on.  Joan cares about the people around her, staff and students alike.  She always tries to accommodate everyone.  I believe Joan to be very wise and I trust her whole-heartedly.  Please consider her for a mentor award.

 

 

Nominee:  Holly Rau

Nominated by:  Veronica Kim

Though Holly is a lot younger than I am, she has become my guide as we try to learn as much as we can about Autism.  Holly is a tireless searcher-of-information, teaching strategies, materials and useful ideas.  She finds and shares generously of her knowledge, truly, to make learning and the life of each of her students better.  She is the honest combination of brains and heart!

 

 

Nominee:  Kathy Sandberg

Nominated by:  Nora Jones

Kathy “keeps the ship sailing.”  She is organized and prepared.  When you think you are two steps ahead – she is 20 steps ahead.  She is dedicated to her colleagues and students.  I could not have made it through these 17 years without her!  We have shared laughter and tears – but the good times outweigh the bad times.  Kathy is an excellent teacher – Coventry is very fortunate to have such a caring professional.

 

 

Nominee:  Jan Spangle

Nominated by:  Kristin Fowler

Since I started at CNHMS eight year ago, Jan has been a mentor to me.  She has helped me through times when I thought I really couldn’t do this job!  But, this year is particular, she has proven what a wonderful, caring person she really is.  She has been helping my son all through the year, and it is clear that she teaches because she just loves these kids.  She is an excellent role-model, mentor, and friend.  Thanks, Jan!