Nominations for 2009 Mentor Awards

Nominee:  Alison Blair

Nominated by:  Barbara Hilton

Alison’s enthusiasm, talent and generous praise create an environment that inspires students to experiment and strive for excellence.

    

 

Nominee:  Bill Cherniske

Nominated by:  Deanna Sokola

Bill has truly been a mentor by aiding my transition to being at the middle school more.  He took the time to help me with the curriculum as it was unfamiliar, and was very flexible about collaborating around my tricky schedule.  Bill was very supportive and encouraging all throughout the year.  He inspires me to do my best teaching.  Bill is also a mentor due to his high quality of instruction and willingness to try new things.  He is an asset to the district.

 

Nominated by:  Judy Ripp

Bill views teaching as “a work in progress.”  He constantly assesses for quality and revises lesson plans for those individuals that do not meet the criteria.  He brings out the “best” in everyone by providing a supportive, motivating classroom that allows students to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of formats.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Karyn Deptula

Nominated by:  Elaine Guyette

This was Karyn’s 1st year teaching and her enthusiasm and dedication are contagious.  What she lacks in experience she makes up for in her eagerness to learn and willingness to put in extra hours of hard work to make lessons meaningful and fun for students.  Her knowledge of mathematics is high level and her delivery of this knowledge and love of mathematics to struggling students is exemplary.  It has been refreshing to work with Karyn this year.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Joanne Donoher

Nominated by:  Melissa Rinaldo

She was not only one of very few teachers that affected my life in a positive way when I was a student at CHS, but I have learned many things from her about how to be a successful teacher.  She has shown me how patience helps one to persevere and meet their goals, as well as how to enrich each and every student’s learning experience.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Kristin Fowler

Nominated by:  Jan Spangle

This teacher consistently, professionally, and superbly handles, supports, and teaches the most challenging students in the district with a smile and a positive, cheerful demeanor.  This person confidently faces daily challenges most people would run away from.  By creating and implementing this innovative program at GHR, Kristin found a way to educate her students in their home district, thereby saving Coventry the expense of outplacement.  This person is Kristin Fowler.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Cathy Garrity

Nominated by:  Bill Scheideman

Cathy is a mentor not only through her expertise in her teaching area, but also as an enthusiastic advocate for positive change in the building.  Cathy was a tireless supporter of our “new” E-Portfolio program, and even while admitting that she didn’t understand all of the technical and technological aspects of it, she provided irreplaceable wisdom and foresight in helping us implementing it.  A true mentor is one who can provide guidance to colleagues on projects in which they might feel a little out of their comfort zone.

 

    

 

Nominee:  Colleen Hamblett

Nominated by:  Megan Babcock

Colleen is an extremely creative, helpful, and dedicated teacher.  She is always willing to listen to your problems, questions and concerns about students no matter how busy she is.  Colleen’s support and expertise make her a wonderful resource to our first grade team.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Bill Holmes

Nominated by:  Judy Burr

Bill has refurbished computers to help kids who do not have access at home to complete school work.  He is extremely responsive to the technological needs of VHS students and helps them in a timely manner so that they do not fall behind.  A techno geek with compassion and a warm heart!

 

   

 

Nominee:  Troy Hopkins

Nominated by:  Heather Mackintosh

Troy is one of the hardest working individuals at CHS.  He makes every decision carefully and thoughtfully while always taking into consideration what is in the best interest of each and every student.  He is a true role model and we are fortunate to have such impressive leadership at CHS.

 

    

 

Nominee:  Gabriel Kendall

Nominated by:  Christine Kendall

I am extremely impressed with Gabe’s ability to take graduate courses, coach hockey, attend student events, participate in community service activities, and be there for his family while maintaining his position as an effective and devoted teacher.  Regardless of what Gabe encounters, his performance in the classroom and dedication to his students is never jeopardized.  Gabe is not only a good mentor or role model to his colleagues, but also to his students.  He illustrates to all of us that anything can be done if one wants it bad enough.  Despite the weight on his shoulders, Gabe’s determination and commitment to his students and profession is admirable.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Sarah Landry

Nominated by:  Karyn Deptula

As a first year teacher I had so many questions about rules and where things were and who to talk to about what.  Sarah was so willing to answer any question and help me at anytime when I was confused.  She gives great advice about classroom management, too.  Her classroom runs like a well-oiled machine.  The students both like AND completely respect her.  She is exactly the type of teacher I am striving to be.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Nancy Lebiszczak

Nominated by:  Elizabeth Eslao

Nancy is very generous with her time to give me guidance at CECC.  Going through the process of getting my CDA would have been much harder without her help.

 

Nominated by:  Kathy LeGrand

This past year I have completed my CDA.  Throughout the completion of my portfolio I was fortunate to have the assistance from Nancy.  Every question was answered with effortless enthusiasm.  She shared her experiences and gave direction without hesitation.  I am very grateful for all her support.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Sherry Masterson

Nominated by:  Beth Schuh

I’d like to nominate Sherry Masterson.  As a sub, you get minimum feedback making it difficult to develop in a job (at times I think we’re considered necessary, expendable, & interchangeable at the same time).  Ms. M. always has a minute for a question, advice, and/or support. When asked, she is willing to give honest feedback in a constructive way which has allowed me to attempt to grow & change within my role in the school.  She’s been doing this for the 4 years that I’ve subbed.  It would be nice to be given the opportunity to have her acknowledged for the time she has given mentoring me.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Karen Norris

Nominated by:  Kathy Zanotti

Karen has provided tremendous assistance, guidance and support to me this entire school year while working on a project of great importance to the district.  Though I ‘volunteered’ her to serve on the committee for the rewriting of the Educational Technology Plan, she jumped right in to help.  From start to finish, many long hours of research, writing and rewriting, meetings, discussions (sometimes colorful) took place and she was there for it all.  I wouldn’t have known where to start if she hadn’t been there to offer insight and leadership.  I thank her frequently for sticking by me and for also being willing to continue to assist me in putting the new Plan into effect.  I hope that she can be honored before the entire staff to show my appreciation for all she has done.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Deborah Page

Nominated by:  Elaine Thornton

Debby seeks out innovative practices, and shares her perspectives with me so that I benefit as well.  She inspires me to be the best that I can be; and, she supports me, especially when I feel overwhelmed with new (and sometimes long time existing) technology.  She is never “too busy” to assist someone needing help.  Although I am the “senior,” she is the mentor…

 

   

 

Nominee:  Marie Pappano

Nominated by:  Jen Emerson

Marie is an invaluable member of GHR. Not only is she dedicated to the students she works with, she is always willing to support us as teachers of these more challenging students.  She helps us to put things in perspective, all while remaining positive and “real.”  She is a breath of fresh air in our building!

 

   

 

Nominee:  Doreen Pelletier

Nominated by:  Julie Dumond

Knowing my class would be on a field trip and I’d be alone with [a student], Doreen volunteered to help me feed him & change him.  This particular day, she had to go to GHR, yet she still found the time to offer help and came through.  At one point, she even sent over a co-worker to let me know she was on her way.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Nancy Plaster

Nominated by:  Jim Careau

This person is extraordinary in so many ways.  First, she has never lost sight of why we’re all here – to educate the students.  She expects her students to achieve their very best and always promotes good citizenship, empathy, and respect in her classroom.  She is one of the best teachers I have ever known.  This person is an avid reader.  She has accumulated a vast amount of knowledge on many different topics.  Health and medicine seems to be one of her fortes.  Whenever I’ve needed information on a particular medical subject, she usually has the answer.  If you ask her for her opinion, she will give it to you straight.  She will not sugar coat her opinions by telling you what she thinks you want to hear.  I respect her for this.  My life has been enriched so much by knowing this person.  She has had a profound effect on my life both as a teacher and as a human being.  So, I would like to nominate Nancy Plaster for a Mentor Award.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Scott Rhoades

Nominated by:  Lori Vigue

With his creativity, leadership, and visible love of what he does, Scott has been an inspiration to me since I entered the field.  I consider myself privileged to have worked along side of him and I believe that I am a better teacher because of his examples.  I want to thank him and recognize him for it now, as he enters his 35th and final year of an exemplary career.

 

Nominated by:  Dr. Al Scopino

It is a pleasure to nominate Schott Rhoades for a Mentor Award – Mr. Rhoades’ outstanding contribution lies in his ability to bring out the artistic best in his students.  His efforts to showcase student work in newsprint, yearbooks, art shows, and grant exhibits go a long way in enhancing the reputation of Coventry and Capt. Nathan Hale School.

 

Nominated by:  Robin Rosen

Scott has been an awesome role model and mentor for me as a teacher.  He has been supportive and enthusiastic about any idea or project suggested to him and has gotten involved without hesitation.  He has guided me through the trauma of being a “new teacher” and has been a great listener.  His endless energy and contributions have inspired me.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Jane Robinson

Nominated by:  Veronica Kim

Jane has not only tutored me in the finer points of computer use, but has also rescued several situations in which her computer skills have enabled whole programs to go forward.  She expects no reward even though I have occasionally offered “a pint of blood.”  She stands out as a true colleague to whom I give my regard, respect and thanks.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Dr. Al Scopino

Nominated by:  Susan Mike

Dr. Scopino has been my lifeline over the past year.  He has continued to guide me through my first year of teaching.  His experiences, observations, discussions, and constructive criticism have assisted me during this crucial year of my career.  I have valued his input and truly appreciate his efforts on my behalf this year.  Dr. Scopino is an asset to Coventry’s teaching community.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Ingrid Sieckowski

Nominated by:  Christine Atkinson

Mrs. S. (as my son used to call her) is an awesome person and teacher.  She always has a positive and sunny attitude, which is helpful when working with children and parents of special needs.  Mrs. S. is an excellent communicator through the home communication book sent home everyday.  She’s always trying to learn new techniques.  Mrs. Sieckowski is always a leader and also a team player.  It takes a great team to teach a special needs child.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Nicoleta Stana

Nominated by:  Susanne Pearson

Nicoleta has worked very hard to provide a supportive, caring and safe learning environment for the Special Education students at our school.  It has been a pleasure working with a fellow staff member who takes the time to work with classroom teachers in order to provide the best education possible for our Special Ed. students.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Karen Unkert

Nominated by:  Heather Zilora

From the time I arrived at CGS, Karen has been welcoming and supportive.  She is always willing to listen.  Her upbeat personality and positive nature make her a pleasure to work with.  She is always willing to lend a helping hand.

 

   

 

Nominee:  Patti Wilson

Nominated by:  Doreen Pelletier

Patty is one of the special people.  The kids enjoy her class and leave after 50 minutes with smiles.  Learning becomes fun and you remember the silly things as you continue in life.  Being in the same hallway we hear the laughter.  Patty is also very knowledgeable in other ways – such as being a “rock,” someone who listens to your concerns and questions and if she doesn’t have the answer then there isn’t one.

 

Nominated by:  William Cherniske

Provided leadership, guidance, and insight to me and many others through the years.  Always has an open door, always willing to help.  She is a blessing.