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Classroom legends

Then there were 15. Only one outstanding teacher will go on to the state contest, but all of these county educators deserve recognition.

By FRANKIE HOWLEY
Published January 25, 2006

More than 250 teachers earned nominations this year in the Pinellas Education Foundation's Outstanding Educator recognition program. The nominations came from other teachers, students, parents and community leaders.

The district selected 25 semifinalists to represent Pinellas' top teachers in five categories: commitment to improvement of the profession, creativity and innovation, inspiring students to performance at higher levels, commitment to children and families, and ambassador of the profession. A team of judges narrowed the field to 15 finalists based on classroom visits and interviews.

On Feb. 9, five educators will be named category winners and one of them will be selected at a dinner hosted by the education foundation to represent the district in the state Teacher of the Year program.

Here is a look at the finalists.

COMMITMENT TO IMPROVEMENT OF THE PROFESSION

ANNE BURSON, library media and technology specialist for grades K-5 at Tarpon Springs Fundamental School TEACHING SINCE: 1974

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in education, library/audiovisual and English from the University of South Florida; master's degree in library science from the University of South Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Became a National Board Certified teacher in early childhood through young adulthood/library media; developed school media programs designed to encourage students to read and explore diverse topics; created technology plans to reach school goals

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Anne Burson has impressed the community of Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary School with her leadership role in implementing change to curriculum delivery when our facility was rebuilt last year. She dedicated many investigative hours, attended workshops, and talked with vendors at conferences to compile a classroom profile that would take our teachers into the 21st century," said Joe Kahl, School Advisory Committee president.

Q. If you had unlimited resources, what would you buy?

"I would buy lots of books and services on the computer that would allow students to do research."

KATHRYN GERAGHTY, 12th-grade economics and social studies teacher at Dixie Hollins High School TEACHING SINCE: 1978

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in comprehensive social science from St. Cloud (Minn.) State University; master's degree in science of teaching from the University of Wisconsin

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Who's Who Among America's Teachers; Pinellas County Adult Education Teacher of the Year; National Science Foundation scholarship winner

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Kathy Geraghty impacts the teaching profession as a mentor, a presenter and a role model. Pinellas County is fortunate to have her as an educator sharing best practices and displaying a passion for teaching and learning," Michael Bohnet, principal of Dixie Hollins High School, wrote. Q. What do you consider your greatest asset as a teacher?

"The ability to build a relationship with the students. Making sure the students realize that they have the capability, and if they are given the opportunity, to demonstrate their ability ... (to) rise to that level."

ANN McNICOL, 10th-grade chemistry teacher at Palm Harbor University High School TEACHING SINCE: 1987

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in zoology from the University of South Florida; master's degree in zoology from the University of Queensland; degree in science education from the University of Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Board Certified teacher

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "I found that I enjoyed helping teachers grow as much as I enjoyed helping my students grow. I keep a mentor log and am proud of my achievements that my adult "students' reach," McNicol wrote.

Q. What do you consider your greatest challenge as a teacher?

"Getting students to work hard when there are so many things attracting their attention. Getting them to devote themselves in their free time."

CREATIVITY & INNOVATION

NATASHA SANDMAN, eighth-grade U.S. history teacher at Bay Point Middle School TEACHING SINCE: 1998

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in social science education from the University of Central Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Certification in social science education for grades 6-12; 1994-95 Caribbean Cultural Exchange president

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Natasha does whatever is needed to make the overall environment at Bay Point better to work and learn. She is constantly seeking new ideas to catch the interest of her students. She always keeps her door open to students and teachers," wrote Jennifer Showerman, technical coordinator at Bay Point Middle School.

Q. Who has been your greatest inspiration?

"I draw all of my inspirations from my students. Everything that I think of doing for the students is either something that they have asked for or something that they need."

ALYCE SCOTT, first-grade teacher at Sutherland Elementary

TEACHING SINCE: 1973

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree of the arts from the University of South Florida; graduate work in mental retardation

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Board Certified teacher in early childhood education; 2003 assistant coordinator of the North Writers Camp; 2000-01 semifinalist for Teacher of the Year; 2000-01 supervisor for county schools executive internship program

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Mrs. Scott puts her whole heart into creating an exciting and positive learning environment for the children and takes each week as a new and exciting adventure for the children to share. She truly knows what the children need to excite them about learning," wrote Becky Mills, parent of a first-grade student at Sutherland Elementary.

Q. If another subject could be incorporated into the curriculum, what do you think it should be?

"I think that it should be laughter. We could all benefit from learning to laugh more often."

ROBERT SINIBALDI, pre-K through fifth-grade adapted physical education teacher at Walsingham Elementary School TEACHING SINCE: 1981

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in physical education, master's degree in adapted physical education, and doctorate in exceptional child education from the University of South Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Articles in more than 30 national publications; Pinellas County PE board of directors vice president from 2001 to present; 2004 Pinellas County adapted PE Teacher of the Year; Florida Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Dance and Sport's Physical Educator of the Year in 1995 and 2004; 1993 Pinellas County Exceptional Educator of the Year

FROM HIS NOMINATION FORM: "When he recognizes a need for his students, he researches the program, writes a grant or obtains community funding, and puts the program into place," said Janine Brown, a fourth-grade teacher at Walsingham Elementary School.

Q. What is the most important thing you've learned about teaching since you've been on the job?

"You have to care about what you're doing at all times. The kids are what it's all about. You have to show them that you care."

INSPIRING STUDENTS TO PERFORMANCE AT HIGHER LEVELS

ANDREA LILLEY, pre-K speech and language teacher at Frontier Elementary School TEACHING SINCE: 1997

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree of the arts, speech pathology and audiology from Baldwin-Wallace College, Ohio; graduate course work in speech pathology from Kent State and Cleveland State universities; Florida professional teaching certificate for speech and language

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Liaison in speech and language therapy for public and private schools; recipient of Teach for Excellence minigrant three years in a row

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Ms. Lilley makes an impact on the lives of children. She provides the loving, learning atmosphere that prepares children to succeed. Children never present problems, only challenges that she takes on with a smile," wrote Maria Atchinson, mother of a Frontier Elementary student.

Q. What, in your opinion, is the best way to encourage a student?

"I think it's an understanding that every child is different and knowing that this difference presents a challenge. It's about finding a key to every child which can inspire them, and in return inspires you."

DEBORAH O'HARE, fifth-grade teacher at Douglas L. Jamerson Jr. Elementary School EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in education from Florida State University; studies in library science from the University of South Florida; early childhood certification from USF

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 1995 Nancy Givens Mainstreaming Teacher of the Year for Pinellas County

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "When Ms. O'Hare identifies a learning need within her children or school, she acts on making a difference to solve this challenge or need. If I could, I would fill the entire school with teachers just like Ms. O'Hare," said Robert Poth, principal of Jamerson Elementary.

Q. What advice would you give a new teacher?

"Find a support system and mentors that can help them along the way, and enjoy the kids."

AMY VAN WORMER, fifth-grade teacher at North Shore Elementary School TEACHING SINCE: 1993

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in elementary education from National-Louis University; middle school mathematics endorsement

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2004-05 E-team veteran member; artist in the classroom collaborating teacher 2003-05

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "In these days of struggling to find time just to teach the basics, "hands-on' activities are often sacrificed. Ms. VanWormer recognizes these lessons can't be considered "extra' and finds time," wrote Nancy Bickner, speech pathology teacher at North Shore Elementary.

Q. Do you ever have moments of self-doubt?

"Not about what I'm doing in the classroom. When something doesn't work, I rework it so that there is a new point of view."

COMMITMENT TO CHILDREN & FAMILIES

ALLYN SUE BAYLOR, seventh-grade science teacher at Palm Harbor Middle School TEACHING SINCE: 1994

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in general studies and biological anthropology from Harvard University; teacher certification program at the University of South Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2004 co-director for Camp Anytown Program, National Conference for Community and Justice; 1997-98 co-director for Temple Beth Shalom youth group

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Allyn (Ali) Baylor has added more to our community here in Pinellas County than any educator I know. From her involvement with the principal's multicultural advisory committee at both the school and county levels to her volunteer work with the National Conference for Community and Justice, she is an outstanding role model for teachers, parents and students," said Donald Comeau Jr., assistant principal at Palm Harbor Middle School.

Q. In your opinion, what is the most important quality a teacher can possess?

"Kindness. (Students) don't care what you know until they know that you care. The first step is getting into their hearts."

JILL SHIRCLIFF-CECIRO, sixth- through eighth-grade teacher at Osceola Middle School TEACHING SINCE: 1995

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in special education for mentally disabled K-12 students from the University of South Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 1999 Seminole Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year; 1994 Dean's List of Scholars; 1993-94 Honors Convocation for superior academic achievement

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Mrs. Ceciro goes above and beyond the call of duty to improve the conditions in which her students live and learn. Her desire to truly see her students succeed has led her to pursue many alternate avenues that would guide her students to success," wrote Valencia Walker, eighth-grade assistant principal, Osceola Middle School.

Q. What is the most important thing parents can do to help their children succeed?

"I think it's important for them to be supportive and to be a part of their children's education despite challenges in daily life. Parents should make the time for them so they can be successful in their lives and encourage them to strive to do their best."

SHARON SNOW, adult education teacher at Tomlinson Adult Learning Center TEACHING SINCE: 1981

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degrees in organizational communications and education from the University of Toledo; master's degree in education from the University of South Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2004 Lifetime Leadership Award from Jack and Jill of America; 1999 principal's award from Tomlinson Adult Learning Center; 1987 Outstanding Pinellas Adult Vocational Educator

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Sharon Snow is a dynamic force for promoting positive personal behavior and academic achievement. She cares deeply about each student's individual needs, and she provides teachers with an endless list of possible solutions to seemingly insurmountable personal obstacles," wrote Dr. Debby VanderWoude, director of Tomlinson.

Q. What is the biggest educational change you've seen in your years in the classroom?

"The biggest change is the use of technology in the GED program, the advancement in educating adults to use computers and calculators as part of our curriculum."

AMBASSADOR OF THE PROFESSION

RANDALL DeVRIES, Guidance counselor at Seminole Elementary School TEACHING SINCE: 1972

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in education from Eastern Connecticut State University; master's degree in educational administration from Rhode Island College; master's degree in guidance and counseling from the University of South Florida; certificate of advanced graduate study in educational administration and completion of requirements for Ph.D in educational administration from the University of Connecticut

FROM HIS NOMINATION FORM: "(Mr. DeVries) is able to tap into all aspects of the educational system and apply assistance to students and support for teachers. He is grounded in accurate information and is always willing to find the answer," said Bonnie Cangelosi, principal of Seminole Elementary.

Q. What is the biggest challenge facing educators today?

"Our society has changed a lot over the years. There are many stresses and strains that families and children must deal with. Students are coming to school with stress, and we need to have the empathy and skills to meet that challenge and to meet the needs of students."

ELIZABETH McGILVERY, music teacher at Perkins Elementary School TEACHING SINCE: 1990

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in music education from the University of South Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2005 Pinellas County Elementary Music Educator of the Year; greater Tampa Bay area Orff chapter board founding member; director of the Pinellas County fifth-grade honors Orff ensembles

FROM HER NOMINATION FORM: "Her strongest gifts are her ability to understand and teach the theories, mechanics and qualities of music, and most of all, the love and encouragement she provides for all her 600-plus students. She helps young people see the value in becoming a teacher," wrote Jessica Calandra, band director at Perkins.

Q. If you couldn't be a teacher, what would you be instead?

"A professional singer. Music has been a part of my life since I was a little girl ... It's such a joy to me. It's another way of expressing myself."

ROBERT PITTS JR., sixth-grade math teacher at Tyrone Middle School TEACHING SINCE: 1990

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in industrial arts education from South Carolina State College; master's degree in educational leadership from National-Louis University

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Professional learning community facilitator; 500 Role Models mentor; dropout prevention department chairman

FROM HIS NOMINATION FORM: "His sense of humor builds rapport with students, teachers and parents. Robert Pitts Jr. is proud to teach, enjoys training teachers and encouraging them. His positive outlook on the field of education is infectious and inspiring," wrote Stephanie Adkinson, principal of Tyrone Middle.

Q. What would you like to accomplish before you retire?

"I would like to become a principal to make a difference in as many children's lives as possible and to make a difference in the community."

[Last modified January 25, 2006, 00:55:16]