Educators Network
The Goldin Foundation for Excellence Education recognizes and
rewards educators who have made outstanding contributions in
their classrooms, schools, and communities. Since its inception
in 1990, the Foundation has sought to foster the respect for and
appreciation of educators.
The following Goldin Foundation award recipients are available
for consultation and professional development with other
educators and school districts. They may also be available for
seminars, meetings, and/or discussions with college students
pursuing careers in education. Any consulting or professional
development fees are arranged directly by the participant and
host.
Grants for professional development utilizing award recipients
are available. Please see
"Activities: Grants for
Professional Development" for information and the grant process.
To contact a "Goldin Foundation Excellence in Education award
recipient," you may directly email, write, or call the educator;
or you may email the Goldin Foundation: harrietgoldin@yahoo.com.
Administration
Marcia Berkowitz, Department Chair of Student
Services, Needham High School, 609 Webster Street, Needham, MA
02494 (refer also to "Special Education")
* developed programming for students at risk through both general
and special education
Current Interests/Projects
* alternative options for NHS students requiring different
programming.
Contact Information:
marcia_berkowitz@needham.k12.ma.us
Peggy Bryan, Principal, Sherman Oaks Community Charter School, 1800-C Fruitdale Avenue,
San Jose, CA 95128
* created a time block for staff development, 90 minutes per day, every week day, for all
faculty, 11:00 AM-12:30 PM. This period allows focused staff development and collegial
conversations and grade level work during the contractual day while students are
supervised in an extended lunch/recreation period by paraprofessionals.
Current Interests/Projects
* coaching and mentoring new principals
* attending seminary for a Masters in Divinity Degree so as to serve as a chaplain to service
providers.
Contact Information: Peggy_Bryan@campbellusd.org or Peg06262@yahoo.com
Joanne S. Delaney, Director of Guidance, Concord Carlisle Regional School District,
500 Walden Street, Concord, MA 01742
* developed a secondary program supporting full inclusion, both
academic /vocational and co-curricular for multiply-handicapped
students in the high school building
Current Interests/Projects
* exploring remedial reading models for both regular and Special Education which provide
documentation of progress
Contact Information: jdelaney@colonial.net
Suzanne Gillam, Walpole
Public Schools, Retired, 10 Exchange Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748
* created a positive school climate at the middle level based on
a shared leadership model
involving staff, students and parents.
Current Interests/Projects
* Director of Christian Education
at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Westborough,
MA where we are
in the process of: raising the roof and adding five new
classrooms
planning for the addition of a preschool program
Contact Information:
sgillam506@aol.com
508-435-3081
Deborah Henry, Director, TEC High School, 675 Watertown Street, Newton, MA 02460
* impacted students and staff of an alternative high school for at risk students in a
regional collaborative of communities
Current interests/projects:
* student assessment
* impact of MCAS on curriculum planning
* teacher evaluation/mentoring
Contact information: dhenry@tec-coop.org, 617-969-5011
George Johnson, Director of Student Development and Program Evaluation K-12,
Needham Public Schools, 1330 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA 02492
* leadership in an action research project which developed a staff development tool
for closing the achievement gap between Black and White students
* activism in AIDS education and advocacy, along with prevention education in general
Current Interests/Projects
* closing the achievement gap
* use of action research as a means of problem-solving and staff development in schools.
Contact Information: 1330 Highland Avenue, Needham Public Schools, Needham, MA 02492,
781-455-0400, x-213, george_johnson@needham.k12.ma.us
Audrey Seyffert, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, Natick Public Schools,
13 East Central Street, Natick, MA 01760 (see "Special Education")
* continued contribution and impact to special education for 36 years, teaching all levels
Preschool-Graduate School
* provided leadership constant that ensures that all students receive the skills and tools they
need to become successful
* established effective channels for teachers, administrators and parents to work in partnership
to make a measurable difference in the lives of all children
Current Interests/Projects
* mentoring new special educators from various parts of the state, contributing to the
growth and contribution of others
* Teachers21 Consultant, with opportunities to tailor staff development programs in such
areas as Behavior Management, Role of the Administrator and Special Education and Inclusion
Contact Information: audrey_seyffert@natick.k12.ma.us
work: 1-508-647-6510, home:1-508-528-2524
Stephen Theall,
Superintendent of Needham Public Schools, (retired) 117 Paul
Revere Road, Needham, MA 02494
Educational
Leadership
* fostered innovation and ensured program quality by challenging
institutional assumptions
and providing resources
* set high expectations for positive and challenging
organizational culture that promoted
excellence in staff performance and student achievement and
learning
* implemented and monitored system-wide goals to ensure
consistency and coordination of
curriculum, instruction, and assessment
* initiated and supported East Asian studies initiatives within
the Needham Public Schools
Human Resources
* negotiated collective bargaining agreements for five separate
employee groups
* recruited, supervised and evaluated system-wide leadership
team to monitor effectiveness
and promote professional growth and organizational development
* directed the design and implementation of a comprehensive
professional development
program that enhances the growth and learning of all adults
within the organization
Community Advocacy:
* developed and promoted Community Advocacy/Relationship
Building with town-wide elected boards, appointed officials, and
community leaders, larger Needham community
* initiated, designed, and developed Annual Performance
Report as a communication
instrument to inform the community concerning organization
successes and challenges
* sponsored the re-design and creation of the office of
Community Education
Strategic Planning:
* promoted the design and development of long range facility
planning process that resulted
in the nearly $100 million replacement and renovations of the
preschool, two elementary
schools and the high school
* maintained and enhanced quality curricular and instructional
programs despite
increasingly limited financial resources
* anticipated and responded to challenges associated with
educating a growing and
increasingly diverse student population
* communicated and advocated for departmental needs and
priorities through the annual
budget development and adoption process
* designed and funded Leadership Academy
* developed communication and accountability systems for
planning process
Contact information:
SJTheall@comcast.net (781) 449-4575 (H) ~ (857)
472-3416 (cell)
Alternative Assessments
High School:
Lucile Burt, (retired) Arlington High School, 869 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, MA 02476
(see "English/Language Arts")
* Western MA Writing Project: Instruction of Writing as a Process workshop leader:
"Teachers as Writers"
* evaluative discussions: inner and outer circles for discussing literature, critical thinking,
how students present as lucid thinkers and articulate speakers
Current Interests and Projects:
* developing a Creative Writing Curriculum: how to structure a workshop atmosphere in a
Creative Writing elective, including use of model writings for poetry, personal essay, and fiction,
use of reader response, portfolio assessment, alternative grading structures.
* assessing student discussion skills: how to develop skills in "civil discourse" among students
through student observation and teacher coaching, how to evaluate student discussion skills,
how to encourage thoughtful listening and participation, and how to use discussion as an
alternative assessment of understanding of literature.
* unhooking from grades: how to use an honor system a self-assessment tools as an
alternative grading structure
* reader response: How to help students develop the skill of writing to think and how to use a
portfolio assessment for such writing.
Contact Information: email address and/or phone number (either home or school)
email: luciledb@rcn.com, home telephone 508-349-9328
Alternative Education
Deborah Henry, Director TEC High School, 675 Watertown Street, Newton, MA 02460
* impacted students and teachers in an alternative high schoo for at risk students in a
regional collaborative of communities
Current interests/projects:
* student assessment
* impact of MCAS on curriculum planning
* teacher evaluation/mentoring
Contact information: dhenry@tec-coop.org, 617-969-5011
Arts: Performing
Virginia (Ginny) Croft,
Lovett Elementary School, 8814 South Rice Avenue, Houston, Texas
77096
* created
(originally as a parent volunteer) a large elementary Concert
Band Program, grades 3-5, which has been growing for 27
years.
* the
Concert Band has won state and national acclaim, including: 1)
1996: chosen by the Walt Disney Corporation as their first
elementary band to play for the Magic Music Days as Epcot Center
in their 25 year history, 2) 2000: chosen to represent Texas
during the city of Washington D.C.’s 200th
Anniversary, and 3) 2004: repeating the Disney invitation in the
Magic Kingdom
* program
may begin in the 1st grade where students learn to
read the musical score playing flutophones, progressing to
baroque recorders in 2nd grade, and on to traditional
band instruments in the 3rd grade
*
many band members enter top middle school bands in 6th
grade, some become Texas All-State performers, and many have
chosen aspects of music for their careers.
*
only requirement for participation is willingness to undertake a
reasonable amount of home practice and consider their other
academic subjects as seriously as their music.
Current Interests/Projects
* on-going
development and growth of Music Program
* mentoring
Contact Information:
ginny_croft@yahoo.com,
713-668-6646
Ruth Mathewson, Baker
Elementary School, 4845 Bucknall Road, San Jose CA 95130
* recognized for work with elementary school children in
Performing Arts. Focus is on integrating academics with music,
drama and dance to help further students’ understanding in
subjects like Math, Science, Geography, and History.
* started a special singing group for the Baker School in
which the children sang and danced to honor police officers,
firemen and other people at many special events.
Current Interests/Projects
* currently working on expanding the above.
Contact Information:
(408) 874-3239 (work),
rMathewson@moreland.k12.ca.us
Elaine Herg Sisler,
Coordinator of "Talents Unlimited" and Artist in Residence at
The Education Cooperative (TEC), Wellesley, MA and Arts
Integration Specialist in Dance & Creative Movement
* developed and implemented "Arts in Motion" programs, which
effectively integrated movement and dance into academic,
physical education, music and visual art curricula
* designed student instructional sessions that are interactive
and explore the creative process
* led professional development workshops that trained teachers
to use creative movement and dance as vehicles for teaching and
learning in alignment with the MA Arts Curriculum Framework
Elaine
believes that students can learn what they need to know through
music, movement, dance, drama and good literature. These are
the tools she uses to help children and adults develop creative
thinking, problem solving skills and aesthetic awareness.
Elaine trains teachers and students to use creative movement and
dance as vehicles for teaching and learning academic curricula.
Current Interests/Projects:
*
Member of Skyloom Sacred Dance Group and Encore Dance Company
*
Creative Teaching Partner for the Massachusetts Cultural
Council
* Adjunct Faculty in Creative Arts and learning Graduate
Program, Endicott College
* Arts Integration Specialist in Dance & Creative Movement
Contact Information: 3 Duston Lane, Acton, MA 01720, 978-
371-9833,
EHSisler@comcast.net
Arts: Visual
Elementary:
Susan Logsdon: Pine Hill Elementary School, Pine Hill Drive,
Sherborn, MA 01770 (see "Early Childhood Education")
* developed and implemented a comprehensive teaching unit on
Japan for primary children
* leading workshops on parent/teacher communication
* helping schools teach art appreciation for young children
Career Education
Linda Curtis, The Education Cooperative, 160 Grove Street,
Wellesley, MA 02482
* directed the Internship Program at TEC (The Education
Cooperative), a regional consortium of thirteen public school
systems. This is a program that finds unpaid internships for
high school juniors and seniors in their areas of interest. The
program runs throughout the academic year as well as in the
summer. It has proven to be a wonderful opportunity for students
to "try on" a potential career. It is also a great addition to
college applications as well as helping determine what colleges
one is interested in attending.
Current Interests/Projects
* TEC Liaison to the Higher Education Committee, a group of high
school college counselors who get together once a month to
discuss various topics, listen to speakers, and share both
successes and failures. In addition the committee plans and runs
two annual college fairs.
* tutoring in the ESL program out of the Framingham Library
Contact Information: lgcurt@yahoo.com (H) 508-651-3327
(C) 508-954-3327
Dental Assisting
Ellen Gambardella, Minuteman School of Applied Arts &
Science, 758 Marrett Rd., Lexington, MA 02421
* created a nontraditional dental assisting program that
operates in a truncated time frame and utilizes accelerated
learning techniques.
* students take Dental Assisting National Board examinations
leading to certification and have had a 100% pass rate with
Minuteman students exceeding scores of other candidates
nationwide
Current Interests/Projects
* duplicating this dental assisting program.
* expanding computer skills.
* working with digital photography.
Contact Information: egambard@verizon.net, 781-280-0644
Early Childhood Education
Lynn Jameson, Director of the Sherborn Extended Day Program,
Pine Hill School, Sherborn, MA
* developed and implemented an enriched after school program
based on creating a family setting within school walls where
children play, cook, create crafts, engage in community projects
such as the monthly "Service with a Heart" Program, do school
assignments, and take care of each
other. Special traditions include Teacher Appreciation Tea,
Alumni Day, Family Night, 5th Grade Holiday Dinner.
Susan Logsdon: Pine Hill Elementary School, Pine Hill
Drive, Sherborn, MA 01770
* developed and implemented a comprehensive teaching unit on
Japan for primary children
Current Interests/Projects:
* leading workshops on teaching about China and Japan in the
elementary grades
* leading workshops on parent/teacher communication
* helping schools teach art appreciation for young children
* substitute teaching
Contact information: susan.logsdon@excite,com,
508-896-3662
Audrey Michelson-Newman, Program Coordinator, Children
First Natick, Natick Public Schools, 14 East Central Street,
Natick, MA 01760
* wrote Children First Natick on-going grant to meet the needs
of the community, providing quality care and education to all
the pre-school age children of Natick.
* designed family outreach and support programs for families
with birth-age 3 children
* designed family literacy program with town library
* developed parenting workshops
* designed and implemented community events focused on families
and children
* developed a Resource Directory for Parents
* arranged for bookmobile visits to preschools and daycare
facilities
Current Interests/Projects
* making sure all eligible pre-school age children have a
place to go for high quality education and care.
Contact Information: Children First Natick, 14 East
Central Street, Natick, MA 01760. 508-647-6400 ext.1533. Home:
21 Eliot Hill Road, South Natick, MA 01760, 508-653-1955
English/Language Arts
Elementary:
Eleanor Demont, Heath School, 100 Eliot St., Chestnut Hill,
MA 02467 (see "Mentoring")
* differentiation of instruction in inclusion classroom
* Critical Friends Group - looking at student work as a way to
inform instruction
* Use of rubrics in problem solving by students
Debbie Judge, Bagby
Elementary School, 1840 Harris Ave., San Jose, CA 95124
* designed and implemented a loving nurturing classroom as a
safe place for young children to learn
* working as a mentor of new teachers in our school district
Current Interests/Projects
* incorporating many problem solving activities into my math
program
* working with “Marcy Cook” materials and weekly math centers
with parents involved to enhance and supplement our district
math curriculum.
Contact Information:
luvsreadin@sbcglobal.net,
(408) 226-6663 (home)
Pat Taurasi,
Literacy Curriculum Leader, (retired), Needham Public Schools,
1330 Highland Avenue,
Needham Ma.
* assisted all Needham Elementary teachers (K-5) as they
revised their writing program based on system-wide staff
development by Tufts University.
* assisted teachers as they planned, evaluated, and revised
writing units of study with the goal of establishing consistency
across grade levels, and across the district. Current
Interests/Projects
* presently retired and caring for my one year old
grandchild.
Contact Information:
Pat_Taurasi@Needham.K12.MA.US
Middle School:
Patrick Daly and
Allison Renna,
Waltham High School, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham,
(See
"English/Language Arts: High School)
Judy Powers and Claire Regan, Watertown Middle School, Waverley Ave., Watertown, MA 02472
* Developed and implemented a co-teaching model for Reading and English in a grade 6 inclusion class, which consists of
three essential components: a daily planning period, a Language Arts period, and an ESL content support class. Using multi-
cultural literature, daily language skills, and process writing, the goal is to include all students in a rigorous language
program.
* Inclusion model encourages high expectations for all students to grow as readers, writers,thinkers and speakers utilizing
skits related to literature units, peer editing, and presentations in front of the whole class.
Current Interests/Projects:
* On-going expansion of repertoire of differentiated activities and materials, i.e. purchase of a wide range of novels for student-
centered book groups.
* Involvement of parents whenever possible, i.e. attendance at poetry tea, scary story hour, and book share
Contact Information:
Claire Regan: cregan@watertown.k12.ma.us, (617) 924-8225
Judy Powers: jpowers@watertown.k12.ma.us, (508) 651-7571
Judy P High School:
Lucile Burt, (retired) Arlington High School, 869 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, MA 02476
* Western MA Writing Project: Instruction of Writing as a Process workshop leader:
"Teachers as Writers"
* evaluative discussions: inner and outer circles for discussing literature, critical thinking,
how students present as lucid thinkers and articulate speakers
Current Interests and Projects:
* developing a Creative Writing Curriculum: how to structure a workshop atmosphere in a
Creative Writing elective, including use of model writings for poetry, personal essay, and fiction,
use of reader response, portfolio assessment, alternative grading structures.
* assessing student discussion skills: how to develop skills in "civil discourse" among students
through student observation and teacher coaching, how to evaluate student discussion skills,
how to encourage thoughtful listening and participation, and how to use discussion as an
alternative assessment of understanding of literature.
* unhooking from grades: how to use an honor system a self-assessment tools as an
alternative grading structure
* reader response: How to help students develop the skill of writing to think and how to use a
portfolio assessment for such writing.
Contact Information: email address and/or phone number (either home or school)
email: luciledb@rcn.com, home telephone 508-349-9328
Patrick Daly and
Allison Renna,
Waltham High School, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham,
* Developed
and implemented a method, “Colorizing Writing,” that has proven
effective for students and teachers who are looking for ways of
improving student writing. The method helps students think more
clearly, write better compositions and responses, and gives
added value to peer and self editing and revision.
*
First used with “at risk” students for the MCAS exam and with
ELL students, the approach led to increased scores and has been
expanded for all students.
Current Interests/Projects
*
Developing the materials to share with school systems through
teacher workshops for use with ELL, Special Education, Special
Needs and English Language Arts classes.
Contact Information:
writingwithcolors@yahoo.com
or visit
writingwithcolors.com
Allison Renna, 11 Minuteman Rd,. Hingham, MA
02043, 781 875-1685,
allierenna@comcast.net
Jane Norton, Hopkinton High School, Hayden Rowe,
Hopkinton, MA
* utilized the Socratic Seminar method to teach high school
English
* students' MCAS scores improved so dramatically in one year,
led to Hopkinton High receiving the Edgerly Award
* designed project based learning
* designed and taught special writing project to tenth grade
students
Current Interests/Projects
* Socratic Seminar
* mentoring
* inclusion
* differentiated instruction
* project based learning
* interdisciplinary teaching
* teaching of writing
Contact Information: jnorton@hopkinton.k12.ma.us
Carol Ziemian, Dedham High School, 140 Whiting AVE,
Dedham, MA 02026
* teaching students to become better writers by helping them use
what they read, see, and hear as well as motivating them to
write and read often. This works in a journalism classroom and
can work in an English classroom at the high school level as
well.
* developing classroom practices that emphasize learning
strategies that help students become better readers, writers,
and thinkers. Many of these evolved from research conducted with
colleagues: these practices were later presented at NCTE
conventions and an article "Reading, Responding, and Reflection"
in the March 200O English Journal.
Current Interests/Projects
* using technology to enhance comprehension in the English
classroom
* using non-fiction to motivate the reluctant and/or non reader
in the English classroom.
Contact Information: cziemian@dedham.mec.edu, YankeePenn@aol.com
School phone: 781-3295568
English As A Second Language (ESL)
Patrick Daly and
Allison Renna,
Waltham High School, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham,
*
Developed
and implemented a method, “Colorizing Writing,” that has proven
effective for students and teachers who are looking for ways of
improving student writing. The method helps students think more
clearly, write better compositions and responses, and gives
added value to peer and self editing and revision.
*
First used with “at risk” students for the MCAS exam and with
ELL students, the approach led to increased scores and has been
expanded for all students.
Current Interests/Projects
*
Developing the materials to share with school systems through
teacher workshops for use with ELL, Special Education, Special
Needs and English Language Arts classes.
Contact Information:
writingwithcolors@yahoo.com
or visit
writingwithcolors.com
Allison Renna, 11 Minuteman Rd,. Hingham, MA
02043, 781 875-1685,
allierenna@comcast.net
Joy Karol,
Teacher of English Language Learners,
Bowen Elementary School, Newton,
MA
* developed the English Language
Learners Program at Bowen where 30% of the families come
from a home where a language other than English is spoken and
about 24 languages are represented. “The goal of our program is
to help our students become proficient in English and have
social and academic success in their grade level classroom.”
-on-going
outreach to new ELL families to help with their adjustment to a
new language, culture and school.
-fostering each child's language and culture and foster pride
in their heritage.
-integrating English language
instruction with the academic skills and content in the
grade level curriculum.
-frequent
communication and collaboration between the ELL staff and Bowen
staff
Contact information:
Joy Karol <Joy_Karol@newton.k12.ma.us>
Judy Powers and Claire Regan, Watertown Middle School, Waverley Ave., Watertown, MA 02472
* developed and implemented a co-teaching model for Reading and English in a grade 6 inclusion class, which
consists of three essential components: a daily planning period, a Language Arts period, and an ESL content
support class. Using multi-cultural literature, daily language skills, and process writing, the goal is to include
all students in a rigorous language program.
* inclusion model encourages high expectations for all students to grow as readers, writers, thinkers and speakers utilizing
skits related to literature units, peer editing, and presentations in front of the whole class.
Current Interests/Projects:
* On-going expansion of repertoire of differentiated activities and materials, i.e. purchase of a wide range of novels for student-
centered book groups.
* Involvement of parents whenever possible, i.e. attendance at poetry tea, scary story hour, and book share
Contact Information:
Claire Regan: cregan@watertown.k12.ma.us, (617) 924-8225
Judy Powers: jpowers@watertown.k12.ma.us, (508) 651-7571
Foreign Language
French:
Karen Girondel, Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St,
Lexington, MA 02421
* excellence in teaching French in total immersion classes
* integration of French music, cinema, and history
* established 'French Culture Bee," a model used by other high
school classes to demonstrate knowledge of French language and
culture
* developed many student exchanges between Lexington High School
and schools in France
Current Interests/Projects
* teaching AP French Literature in addition to French I and
French III.
Contact Information: girondel@sch.ci.lexington.ma.us OR
girondel@rcn.com
Spanish:
Debbie Watters, Director
of World Languages, Needham High School, 609 Webster St.,
Needham MA 02494
* began Spanish instruction in the elementary schools in Needham
using a combination of interactive television instruction and
in-class instruction.
Current Interests/Projects
* Director of World Languages, grades 6-12 in Needham
Public Schools. We have re-written our curriculum to be
'function-driven' and are focusing on communicative proficiency
and improving articulation between levels and courses.
* anti-racism trainer for EMI and work on various multicultural
and diversity initiatives in the district
Contact Information: Debbie_Watters@needham.k12.ma.us,
781-455-0800x2755
Gifted and Talented
Nina Greenwald, Former Director, TEC Talents Unlimited
Program K-12 , The Education Cooperative, Wellesley, MA 02482
* Professor of Critical and Creative Thinking, UMass Boston
* National teacher trainer: specialist in curriculum development
for teaching critical and creative thinking (with published
curricula and articles) and problem-based learning (published a
book) and teaching to multiple intelligences (published
article).
* Workshop leader for parents and administrators on wide range
of contemporary home and school-based issues and problems
Contact Information: nlgreenwald@comcast.net
Jane Hawes, K-12 Coordinator of Media Services & Library
Media Specialist, Bird Middle School, 625 Washington St., East
Walpole, MA 02032 (see "Library/Information Technology")
* coordinated an independent study program involving "essential
question" to research, technology and first-hand resources
culminating in multi-media presentations that are shared with
other students
Charissa Korobov,
Chapel Hill Middle School, Chapel Hill Road, Douglasville,
GA 30134
(present school, former school district was Cupertino , CA).
(see "Mathematics: Middle School")
*provides classroom students with real life, “rich” math
problems where students are able to share their process of
discovery with other students in a gallery walk. “These rich
math problems have various ways of being solved and at the same
time, allow students to generalize their findings. Sharing their
thinking and process enables students to appreciate multiple
methods of solving a problem, communicate mathematically, and
work cooperatively to decide on a final presentation.”
Ruth Mathewson, Baker
Elementary School, 4845 Bucknall Road, San Jose CA 95130
* recognized for work with elementary school children in
Performing Arts. Focus is on integrating academics with music,
drama and dance to help further students’ understanding in
subjects like Math, Science, Geography, and History.
* started a special singing group for the Baker School in
which the children sang and danced to honor police officers,
firemen and other people at many special events.
Current Interests/Projects
* currently working on expanding the above.
Contact Information:
(408) 874-3239 (work),
rMathewson@moreland.k12.ca.us
Elaine Herg Sisler, Coordinator of "Talents Unlimited"
and Artist in Residence at The Education Cooperative (TEC),
Wellesley, MA and Arts Integration Specialist in Dance &
Creative Movement (see "Arts:Performing")
* developed and implemented "Arts in Motion" programs, which
effectively integrated movement and dance into academic,
physical education, music and visual art curricula. Student
instructional sessions are interactive and explore creative
process.
Guidance/Social Work
George Johnson, Director of Student Development and Program
Evaluation K-12, Needham Public Schools, 1330 Highland Avenue,
Needham, MA 02492 (see "Administration")
* leadership in an action research project which developed a
staff development tool for closing the achievement gap between
Black and White students
* activism in AIDS education and advocacy, along with prevention
education in general.
Kimberly Roslonek,
Guidance Counselor, Weston Middle School, 456 Wellesley Street,
Weston, MA 02493
* researched, developed and implemented “Natural Helpers,” a
peer-helping/mentoring group that works to identify students who
are seen as the kind of people other kids turn to when in need.
They are trained and then work on projects that include
transitioning students to the middle school, harassment and
bullying, conflict resolution and student advocacy.
Contact Information:
roslonekk@mail.weston.org
Health/Physical Education
Elementary:
Bill Horewitch,
Southside School, 303 Fort Worth, Cleveland, Texas 77327
* designed and implemented Character Education and Development
Program used in all Physical Education classes, using the
philosophy of “You have to reach them before you can touch
them.” and “Children are valued for who they are and not what
they can or cannot do.”
* developed T.O.U.C.H. (Teachers Open to Uplifting Children’s
Hearts), a teacher/staff-student mentoring program devoted to
emotional and social needs .
* designed A.C.E. (Attitude, Character, Effort) grading system
for Physical Education
* designed an “I Make A Difference” wall to highlight students
making a real difference in other’s lives.
* implemented a philosophy of Physical Fitness based on
improvement, “Caught You for Being Good System,” and “Golden
Referrals for Character.” The emphasis is on values of fun and
learning, with no scores ever kept in games.
Current
Interests/Projects
* motivation speaker in regards to motivating kids and
character, discipline with love and dignity.
* administrative intern
Contact information: whorewitch@ clevelandisd.org,
coach1313@webtv.net
(cell)713-480-7812, (home)281-350-3433, (school)281-592-0594
High School:
Cathy Shachoy, Norwood High School, Nichols Street, Norwood,
MA 02062 (see "Social Action')
* initiated "Friendship Club," at Norwood High School, an
organization of students that provides social opportunities for
students with special needs with students in the regular
education program. The program has been in existence for 11
years and hosts social hours every other week and some special
events.
Current Interests/Projects:
* developed "Challenger Sports" in Mansfield MA, a sports
program for children with special needs. It occurs
one night per week and involves volunteers from Mansfield High
School.
Contact Information:
cshachoy@norwood.k12.ma.us
Human Resources (see
"Administration")
Inclusion
Elementary:
Eleanor Demont, Heath School, 100 Eliot St., Chestnut Hill,
MA 02467 (see "Mentoring")
* differentiated instruction in fully integrated class, with
expectations of high achievement
* Critical Friends Group - looking at student work as a way to
inform
instruction
Angela DiNapoli, 1155 Central Avenue, Newman Elementary
School, Needham, MA 02492 (see "Science")
* has taught inclusion classrooms for many years and piloted a
co-teaching inclusion model that involved one-third special ed
children in class with a full time special education teacher.
The model benefited the entire class and incorporated teaching
modifications.
* teaching a graduate course entitled Multiple Intelligences
Theory and Application in the Classroom
* prepared and taught a graduate course Inclusion for the
Regular Classroom Teacher.
Middle School:
Janet Maguire,
Ottoson Middle School, Arlington, MA 02476
(see "Special Education: Middle School")
* Coordinator and teacher of an
Alternative Program for “at-risk” regular education students in
middle school
* Coordinator of a peer mentoring program between high school
and middle school students
* One of the Founders of a volunteer homework support program in
the low-income housing development in Arlington
Contact Information:
e-mail:
jmaguire924@hotmail.com,
School: 781-316-3745 ext. 1323
Judy
Powers and Claire Regan,
Watertown Middle School, Waverley Ave., Watertown, MA 02472
(See "English As A Second Language")
High School:
Jane Norton, Hopkinton High School, Hayden Rowe, Hopkinton,
MA (see "English: High School")
* developed project based learning
* taught special writing project to tenth grade students
Current Interests/Projects
* inclusion
* differentiated instruction
* project based learning
* interdisciplinary teaching
Elizabeth Rochin,
Cupertino High School, 10100 Finch Ave., Cupertino, CA 95014
(see "Special Education: High School")
* * since 1999, developed and implemented a new program,
Academic Communication (A.C.). The course supports high
school students who demonstrate significant delays in social
cognition. (Asperger’s Syndrome and Non-verbal Learning
Disabilities). The program has provided an effective inclusion
model for academically capable students who take A.C. as part of
their Special Education supports. There, they receive direct
instruction regarding social thinking skill development.
Administration:
Ron Eckel, Principal, Israel Loring School, 80 Woodside
Road, Sudbury, MA 01776 (see "Principalship')
* leadership training with new teachers, prospective teachers,
new principals
Audrey Seyffert, Assistant Superintendent of Special
Education, Natick Public Schools,
13 East Central Street,
Natick, MA 01760 (see "Special Education")
* continued contribution and impact to special education for 36
years, teaching all levels, Preschool - Graduate School
Law-Related Education
Margaret Reilley, Norwood High School, Nichols St, Norwood,
MA 02062, 781-769-2333
(see "Social Studies")
* developed and taught popular American Law course for 11th and
12th grade students of standard, college, and accelerated levels
* trainer for National Institute for Citizenship in the Law
* co-authored a student enacted "A Bill of Rights Assembly,"
published in the American Bar Association's Winter 1991 issue of
Update on Law-Related Education magazine.
* participated in first U.S. Supreme Court institute sponsored
by the U.S. Supreme Court Historical Society and the National
Institute for Citizenship Education in the Law
* reviewer of Street Law, 6th edition
Leadership
Tim Krieger,
Monta Vista
High School,
21840
McClellan Road,
Cupertino,
CA 95014
*
developed and team taught a Leadership Course involving
increased communications skills of students and resulting in
improved connections between students and staff (description and
information at http://www.mvhs.fuhsd.org/tim_krieger/leadership)
Current
Interests/Projects
* working to
establish science policies and curriculum at a department level.
* continuing to
enhance student leadership opportunities.
Contact
Information:
Tim Krieger,
tim_krieger@fuhsd.org,
408-366-7600 x8855
Library/Information Technology
Jane Hawes, K-12 Coordinator of Media Services and Library
Media Specialist, Bird Middle School, 625 Washington St., East
Walpole, MA 02032 (see "Gifted and Talented")
* coordinated an independent study program involving "essential
question" to research, technology and first-hand resources
culminating in multi-media presentations that are shared with
other students
* developed a Multimedia Access Learning Lab in an
under-utilized learning space where teachers take classes for
technology based lessons designed for cooperative learning
groups
* involved students from all grades as student webmasters to
create, monitor and update school's user-friendly home page
Current Interests/Projects
* LSTA Information Literacy Grant funded through the
Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners
focusing on parent/child information literacy with an emphasis
on safe and effective Internet searching
* writing picture books for children
Contact Information: Jhawes@rcn.com, 617-266-9194
Elementary:
Michael Kascak, Hillside Elementary, 28 Glen Gary Road,
Needham, MA 02494
* designed and implemented a vocabulary unit based on Greek and
Latin roots and cognates, recently adapted unit to be content
specific to science and social studies curriculum maps in
Needham Public Schools.
* integration of technology with curriculum
* designed and implemented a unit integrating a variety of
technology pieces with geometric concepts to explain and
demystify computer graphics
Current Interests/Projects
* principal at Hillside Elementary School
* graduate school lecturer
* educational consultant
* writing projects, educational and personal
Contact Information: 5 Appleton Street # 1F, Boston, MA
02116, 617-695-1780
Judi Paradis,Plympton
Elementary School, 20 Farnsworth St., Waltham MA 02451
* developed enrichment programs in school library program that
reach a wide range of student abilities, including book
discussion groups, reading incentive programs, and enrichment
reading groups for students reading well above grade level.
* coordinated a number of curriculum-based projects at all
grade levels designed to teach the research process.
Current Interests/Projects
* interested in using the school library program as an
extension of the classroom to provide differentiated instruction
and support for a wide range of learning initiatives in the
school. Some specific initiatives include:
-running
a series of enrichment programs for students who are reading
significantly above grade level
-developing
a collection of materials to support English Language Learners
and special education students
-developing
school-wide reading incentive programs to increase the amount of
recreational reading within our school
-developing reading lists to supplement curriculum areas in
science and social studies to provide differentiated instruction
in these subject areas
Contact Information:
judiparadis@rcn.com
Mathematics
Elementary School
Mariana Alwell,
Garden Gate Elementary, 10500 Ann Arbor Dr., Cupertino, CA 95014
* developed critical thinking for students in elementary classes.
“I believe that the skills of analyzing, predicting, evaluating
and justifying are vital to success as citizens of the world.
In both my math and social studies classes, I push my students
to think beyond the literal. Each year I teach, I ask more
questions and tell less. My students will hear the phrase, “Did
anyone think about it differently” many times each day. If I
can motivate my students to be life long learners and to find
personal areas of interest, I am willing to dress up, dance,
make food, or whatever is necessary to spark excitement.”
Current Interests/Projects
* coaching other teachers in improving their math instruction
supported by the Noyce Foundation.
* involved in two “Lesson Study Research Projects:” 1)
investigates student thinking through the use of Number Talks,
2) looks at how scaffolding helps or hinders student thinking.
These projects give teachers a chance to look closely at their
students’ work and reflect on changing instruction strategies to
improve student understanding.
Contact Information:
Alwell_Mariana@cupertino.k12.ca.us
School :408 252-5414 ext 214, Home: 831 338-6521
Eleanor Demont, Heath School, 100 Eliot St., Chestnut
Hill, MA 02467
* was instrumental in starting Heath School's Sunrise Seminars,
a monthly early morning group of teachers who discuss math
strategies and instruction.
* initiated a Parent Math Breakfast and a Family Math Night for
children in K-3 and their parents, with interest by other school
systems in replicating the concept
* has served as co-coach of the 5th and 6th grade Math League at
Heath, with the number of students increasing every year.
* has taught math education to graduates students at Wheelock
College
Current Interests/Projects
* differentiation of instruction in inclusive classroom
* Critical Friends Group - looking at student work as a way to
inform instruction
Contact Information:
eleanor_demont@brookline.mec.edu
Debbie Judge, Bagby
Elementary School, 1840 Harris Ave., San Jose, CA 95124
(see "English/Language Arts: Elementary")
Susan Getty, Bennett-Hemenway School, 18 E. Evergreen
Road, Natick, MA 01760 (see 'mentoring")
* implemented new TERC math program for 1st grade, workshop
leader for teachers throughout system
* involved in many mentoring projects for new teachers
during career of 36 years For the past three years, trained new
first grade teachers in Natick's elementary math program, Investigations
* participated in the "Investigations Training Program" through CESAME two years ago.
Contact Information:
susan_getty@natick.k12.ma.us
Charissa Korobov,
Chapel Hill Middle School, Chapel Hill Road, Douglasville,
GA 30134
(present school, former school district was Cupertino , CA).
* provides classroom students with real life, “rich” math
problems where students are able to share their process of
discovery with other students in a gallery walk. “These rich
math problems have various ways of being solved and at the same
time, allow students to generalize their findings. Sharing their
thinking and process enables students to appreciate multiple
methods of solving a problem, communicate mathematically, and
work cooperatively to decide on a final presentation.”
Current Interests/Projects
* working on ways to engage all types of learners in the
mathematics classroom so
that all students are successful.
* searching for real life applications that will engage
students and enable them to apply the math concepts to other
situations in their own lives.
Contact Information:
Charissa Korobov, 770-355-3907 (home), 770-651-5000 (school)charissakorobov@mac.com (home) charissa.korobov@douglas.k12.ga.us (school)
High School:
Lynn Walton,
Westmont High School, 4805 Westmont Ave., Campbell, CA 95008
* Using a variety of activities including writing* and
technology to teach high school mathematics. (* College of the
Week (COW), Article of the Week, Journals, etc.)
* Special activities include being the Community Service
Advisor for CSF with over 300 students that have to earn 10
hours of community service each semester.
* Each year we (the other CSF Advisor and I) take a group of
students on a tour of Couther California colleges
Current Interests/Projects:
* focus on activities for SDAIE Geometry students
* mentoring a new math teacher.
*
docent at the San Lorenzo Valley Historical Museum and I serve
as Secretary for CHSTA (Campbell High School Teachers
Association)
Contact Information:
lwalton@rawbits.com,
cell: 408-313-2104
Mentoring
Elementary:
Eleanor Demont, Heath School, 100 Eliot St., Chestnut Hill,
MA 02467
* co-designed and co-led the induction program for K-8 teachers
in Brookline, includes: mentor program, orientation, New Teacher
Handbook, and seminar series
Current Interests/Projects
* differentiation of instruction in inclusive classroom
* Critical Friends Group - looking at student work as a way to
inform instruction
Contact Information:
eleanor_demont@brookline.mec.edu
Ron Eckel, Principal, Israel Loring School, 80 Woodside
Road, Sudbury, MA 01(see"Principalship')
* mentoring future and/or new principals
Susan Getty, Bennett-Hemenway School, 18 E. Evergreen
Road, Natick, MA 01760
(see "Mathematics")
* involved in many mentoring projects for new teachers during
career of 36 years. For the past three years, trained new first
grade teachers in Natick's elementary math program,
"Investigations"
* participated in the "Investigations Training Program" through CESAME two years ago.
Contact Information: susan_getty@natick.k12.ma.us
High School:
Deborah Henry, Director, TEC High School, 675 Watertown
Street, Newton, MA 02460 (see "Alternative Education")
* impacted students and teachers of an alternative high school
for at risk students in a regional collaborative of communities
Current interests/projects:
* Student assessment
* Impact of MCAS on curriculum planning
* Teacher evaluation/mentoring
Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom
Elementary:
Angela DiNapoli, 1155 Central Avenue, Newman Elementary
School, Needham, MA 02492 (see "Science")
* taught inclusion classrooms for many years and piloted a
co-teaching inclusion model that involved one-third special ed
children in class with a full time special education teacher.
The model benefited the entire class, and incorporated teaching
* teaching a graduate course entitled Multiple Intelligences
Theory and Application in the Classroom
* preparing a graduate course called Inclusion for the Regular
Classroom Teacher.
Principalship
Elementary:
Peggy Bryan, Principal, Sherman Oaks Community Charter School, 1800-C Fruitdale Avenue,
San Jose, CA 95128
* created a time block for staff development, 90 minutes per day,
every week day, for all faculty, 11:00 AM-12:30 PM. This period allows focused
staff development and collegial conversations and grade level work during the contractual day
while students are supervised in an extended lunch/recreation period by paraprofessionals.
Current Interests/Projects
* coaching and mentoring new principals
* attending seminary for a Masters in Divinity Degree so as to serve as a chaplain to service providers.
Contact Information: Peggy_Bryan@campbellusd.org or Peg06262@yahoo.com
Ron Eckel, Principal, Israel Loring School, 80 Woodside
Road, Sudbury, MA 01776(see "Student Social
Interaction")
* implementation of an array of programs fostering "Community"
throughout the school
* child centered school community: "Community Celebrations"
bi-monthly all-school assembly celebrating children's
accomplishments and talents
* afternoon program run by teachers and 5th grade volunteers
* weekly Monday Morning meting for entire school staff, and
students
* "Big Friend, Little Friend" a program matching older students
to meet weekly to share reading and other academic subjects,
whole school participation
* Social Action: every grade level has outreach program of
social awareness, coordinated with PTO Committee
Current Interests/Projects
*
In addition to above areas: school culture, mentoring future
and/or new principals, enhancing technology/curriculum
connections, as well as literacy development and curriculum
differentiation.
Contact information: eckelr@sudbury.k12.ma.us, home
617-489-5750, work 978-579-0870 ext.1100
Middle School:
Suzanne Gillam, Walpole
Public Schools, Retired, 10 Exchange Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748
* created a positive school
climate at the middle level based on a shared leadership model
involving staff, students and parents.
Current
Interests/Projects
* Director of Christian Education at Good Shepherd Lutheran
Church, Westborough, MA where we are in the process of: raising
the roof and adding five new classrooms planning for the
addition of a preschool program
Contact Information:
sgillam506@aol.com 508-435-3081
High School:
Deborah Henry, Director TEC High School, 675 Watertown
Street, Newton, MA 02460
* impact on an alternative high school on at risk students in a
regional collaborative of communities
Current interests/projects:
* Student assessment
* Impact of MCAS on curriculum planning
* Teacher evaluation/mentoring
Contact information: dhenry@tec-coop.org, 617-969-5011
Public Relations
Carol Ziemian, Dedham High School, 140 Whiting Ave.,
Dedham, MA 02026 (see 'English/Language Arts")
* teaching students to become better writers by helping them use
what they read, see, and hear as well as motivating them to
write and read often. This works in a journalism classroom and
can work in an English classroom at the high school level as
well.
Science
Elementary:
Angela DiNapoli, 1155 Central Avenue, Newman Elementary
School, Needham, MA 02492 (see "Inclusion")
* after attending several NASA workshops, developed a Space
Simulation Unit using an inflatable Astro Saucer. The unit
integrates all areas of the curriculum with an emphasis on
Science Standards and Math Standards. Children participate in a
series of hands-on activities,
which simulate astronaut training, traveling in space, and
exploring planet Earth. They have a better understanding of all
areas of science when they are finished.
Current Interests/Projects:
* teaching a graduate course entitled Multiple Intelligences
Theory and Application in the Classroom.
* teaching inclusion classrooms for many years and piloting a
co-teaching inclusion model that involves one-third special ed
children in class with a full time special education teacher.
The model benefits the entire class and incorporates the
modifications into teaching.
* preparing a graduate course called Inclusion for the Regular
Classroom Teacher.
Contact Information:
angdinap@aol.com,
angela_dinapoli@needham.k12.ma.us
Michael Kascak, Hillside Elementary, 28 Glen Gary Road,
Needham, MA 02494 (see "Library/Information Technology")
* designed and implemented a vocabulary unit based on Greek and
Latin roots (cognates), recently adapted unit to be content
specific to science and social studies curriculum maps in
Needham Public Schools.
* integration of technology with curriculum
High School:
Louis Dittami, Retired Science Instructor, Dover Sherborn
High School, 9 Junction Street, Dover, MA 02030
* created a Science and Technology Program for high school
students. Collaborating with an Industrial Arts instructor, we
instituted an applied engineering program for students. Students
are given some background in technical areas and then are
presented with problems. They are expected to design and build
solutions to those problems. One such problem involves
determining the tensile strength of various types of twine. Each
twine is rated at 50 lbs. or more. Students are given one spring
scale with a maximum rating of twenty-five lbs. They are
expected utilize basic engineering and physics principles
building a device to measure the tensile strength of the fibers.
Current Interests/ Projects * position as a Research Physicist and Research Leader,
Fiber Processing & Technology Team, at The U.S. Army
Chemical and Biological Command in Natick
Contact
Information: Louis Dittami, Research Leader, Fiber
Processing & Technology Team, Natick Soldier Center, US Army
Research, Development & Engineering Command, ATTN:
AMSRD-NSC-IP-F, Kansas Street, Bldg 36, Rm. 163, Natick, MA
01760-5019. email:ldittami@yahoo.com
Tim Krieger,
Monta Vista
High School,
21840
McClellan Road,
Cupertino,
CA 95014
* redesigned the AP Biology Course that enhances work in class
and home (description and information at:
http://www.mvhs.fuhsd.org/tim_krieger/apbio),
served as Science Department Chair, and mentored new biology
teachers.
Current
Interests/Projects
* working to
establish science policies and curriculum at a department level.
* continuing to
enhance student leadership opportunities.
Contact
Information:
Tim Krieger,
tim_krieger@fuhsd.org,
408-366-7600 x8855
Social Action/Volunteer Work
Elementary:
Ron Eckel, Israel Loring School, Sudbury, MA: (see "Principalship")
* every grade level has outreach program of social awareness,
coordinated with PTO Committee
Middle School:
Eleanor Donato,
Watertown Middle School, MA (see "Social Studies")
*developed student leaders in Student Council
*
initiated Coats for Kids and Pennies for Patients
projects in school and community
*
served as Community Service Coordinator: helping students
reach recommended community service hours, coordinating
Community Service awards and Presidential Volunteer Service
Awards
*
helped coordinate events for community outreach
Janet Maguire,
Ottoson Middle School, Arlington, MA 02476
(see "Special Education: Middle School")
* Coordinator and teacher of an
Alternative Program for “at-risk” regular education students in
middle school
* Coordinator of a peer mentoring program between high school
and middle school students
* One of the Founders of a volunteer homework support program in
the low-income housing development in Arlington
Contact Information:
e-mail:
jmaguire924@hotmail.com,
School: 781-316-3745 ext. 1323
Jennifer M. Rudolph,
Weston Middle School, 456 Wellesley Street, Weston, MA 02493
* developed
The Tree of Respect Quilt
project for all 6th grade school students as a
vehicle for nourishing their own growth as respectful
individuals. The themes represented on the quilt are
encouragement, self-confidence, cooperation, responsibility,
compassion, positive attitude, community, honesty, humor,
effort, leadership, health, tolerance, teamwork, and honor.
Throughout the year the spirit of the tree lives on through the
words and actions of the students as they exemplify each of the
themes. Each leaf symbolizes each voice in the sixth
grade: students, teachers, and parents.
Current Interests/Projects
* teaching sixth grade social studies.
* facilitating a course called "Keeping the Conversation Alive,"
provides a weekly forum in which educators and educational staff
can engage in focused discussions relating to specific
anti-biased/anti-racist topics throughout the school year and
brainstorm effective methods of grappling with these difficult
issues in a safe and open environment. Topics include
"Revisiting the World of White Privilege," and "Understanding
your own Cultural Connections."
Contact Information: rudolphj@mail.weston.orgschool:
781-529-8060 x6214
Debbie Watters, Director of World Languages,
Needham High School, 609 Webster St., Needham MA 02494 (see "Foreign Language: Spanish")
* anti-racism trainer for EMI and work on various multicultural
and diversity initiatives in the district
High School:
Lucile Burt, Arlington High School, 869 Massachusetts
Ave., Arlington, MA 02476 (see "English/Language Arts")
* Educators for Social Responsibility curriculum writer and
workshop leader. "Teachers are responsible for educating
thoughtful active citizens in a democracy and helping students
understand how to think about complex issues facing our country
and the world."
Louis Dittami, Retired Science Instructor, Dover Sherborn
High School, 9 Junction Street, Dover, MA 02030 (see
"Science")
* designed and coordinated long term Outreach Program of student
volunteerism to make and serve meals at homeless shelters
bringing students into the Pine Street Inn and the Saint Francis
House in Boston.
Sheldon Obelsky, Arlington High School, MA (see "Social
Studies")
* founded "STOP," Students and Teachers Opposed to Prejudice
Lynn Walton,
Westmont High School, 4805 Westmont Ave., Campbell, CA 95008
(see "Mathematics: High School)
* Special activities include being the Community Service
Advisor for CSF with over 300 students that have to earn 10
hours of community service each semester.
* Each year we (the other CSF Advisor and I) take a group of
students on a tour of Couther California colleges
Contact Information:
lwalton@rawbits.com,
cell: 408-313-2104
Matt Torrens,
Saratoga High School, 20300 Herriman Ave., Saratoga, CA
9507 (see "Social Studies: High School
*
developed and incorporated local walking tours and volunteer
service in a Social Studies class to enhance learning and
community awareness and connection.
*planned effective and fun activities for Social Studies in and
outside of classes that reinforce state curriculum standards.
Contact Information:
matt.torrens@saratogahigh.org
Administration:
George Johnson, Director of Student Development and
Program Evaluation, Needham Public Schools, 1330 Highland
Avenue, Needham, MA 02492 (see "Administration")
* leadership in an action research project which developed a
staff development tool for closing the achievement gap between
Black and White students
* activism in AIDS education and advocacy, along with prevention
education in general.
Social Studies
Elementary:
Mariana Alwell,
Garden Gate Elementary, 10500 Ann Arbor Dr., Cupertino, CA 95014
(see "Mathematics:
Elementary)
*
develops critical thinking for students in elementary classes.
“I believe that the skills of analyzing, predicting, evaluating
and justifying are vital to success as citizens of the world.
In both my math and social studies classes, I push my students
to think beyond the literal. Each year I teach, I ask more
questions and tell less. My students will hear the phrase, “Did
anyone think about it differently” many times each day. If I
can motivate my students to be life long learners and to find
personal areas of interest, I am willing to dress up, dance,
make food, or whatever is necessary to spark excitement.”
Michael Kascak, Hillside Elementary, 28 Glen Gary Road,
Needham, MA 02494
(see "Library/Information Technology")
* designed and implemented a vocabulary unit based on Greek and
Latin roots (cognates), recently adapted unit to be content
specific to science and social studies curriculum maps in
Needham Public Schools.
* integration of technology with curriculum
Susan Logsdon: Pine Hill Elementary School, Pine Hill
Drive, Sherborn, MA 01770
* developed and implemented a comprehensive teaching unit on
Japan for primary children
Current interests/Projects:
* leading workshops on teaching about China and Japan in the
elementary grades
* leading workshops on parent/teacher communication
* helping schools teach art appreciation for young children
Contact information: susan.logsdon@excite,com, 508-432-7947
Middle School:
Richard DeSorgher, Medfield High School, 24 Pound Street,
Medfield, Massachusetts 02052
(see "Social Studies: High School")
Eleanor Donato,
Watertown Middle School, 68 Waverley Avenue, Watertown, MA
02472
*developed student leaders in Student Council
*
initiated Coats for Kids and Pennies for Patients
projects in school and community
*
served as Community Service Coordinator: helping students
reach recommended community service hours, coordinating
Community Service awards and Presidential Volunteer Service
Awards
*
helped coordinate events for community outreach
* designed
and implemented World Geography curriculum to embrace
Watertown’s Diversity that connects students to current world
issues and events and has a culminating World’s Fair
*
mentored student interns and new staff
Current
Interests/Projects
continued
focus on all of the above
Contact
Information:
edonato@watertown.k12.ma.us
617-926-7783, x2207 (school), 617 – 484-5569 (home)
Thomas J. MacDonough, Retired Department Chair K-12,
Norwood High School, Nichols Street, Norwood, MA 02062 (see
"Social Studies: High School")
Jennifer M. Rudolph,
Weston Middle School, 456 Wellesley Street, Weston, MA 02493
* developed
The Tree of Respect Quilt
project for all 6th grade school students as a
vehicle for nourishing their own growth as respectful
individuals. The themes represented on the quilt are
encouragement, self-confidence, cooperation, responsibility,
compassion, positive attitude, community, honesty, humor,
effort, leadership, health, tolerance, teamwork, and honor.
Throughout the year the spirit of the tree lives on through the
words and actions of the students as they exemplify each of the
themes. Each leaf symbolizes each voice in the sixth
grade: students, teachers, and parents.
Current Interests/Projects
*
teaching sixth grade social studies.
* facilitating a course called "Keeping the Conversation Alive,"
provides a weekly forum in which educators and educational staff
can engage in focused discussions relating to specific
anti-biased/anti-racist topics throughout the school year and
brainstorm effective methods of grappling with these difficult
issues in a safe and open environment. Topics include
"Revisiting the World of White Privilege," and "Understanding
your own Cultural Connections."
Contact Information: rudolphj@mail.weston.orgschool:
781-529-8060 x6214
High School:
Richard DeSorgher, Medfield High School, 24 Pound Street,
Medfield, Massachusetts 02052
* Use of local history in the study of U.S. History.
* Student usage of local resources.
* Student involvement in local politics
Current Interests/Projects
* Working on updating the history of the Town of Medfield
* Involvement in local, state and national politics
Contact Information:
Rdesorgher@medfield.mec.edu
Dianne Langley:
Social Studies Teacher and Department Chair, Natick High
School,15 West St.,Natick, MA 01760
*
Developed and implemented, with intent to publish, a book of
interdisciplinary lessons for secondary Social Studies and
English classes using contemporary song lyrics.
* Wrote
The Lang Book: A Collection of Contemporary Song Lyrics for Use
in Social Studies and English Classes
Current
Interests/Projects
* Ongoing
curriculum project as described above
*
Mentoring and encouraging new teachers
*
Alternative assessments and student-centered learning
* John D.
Langley Foundation
Contact
Information:
Dianne_Langley@Natick.K12.MA.US,
DLangley5@comcast.net
Home:
508-558-4173, Work: 508 -647-6614
Thomas J. MacDonough, Retired Department Chair K-12,
Norwood High School, Nichols Street, Norwood, MA 02062
* Creation of Advanced Placement Class in European History
Current Interests/Projects:
* teaching at college level
* development of content units: Fall of Soviet Union, Spanish
Civil War, Turkish Revolution (1923) vs. Iranian Revolution
(1925), Analysis of Modern China, Analysis of German Unification
Contact Information: TJMACDONOUGH@ aol.com
Sheldon Obelsky, Arlington High School, 869 Massachusetts
Ave., Arlington, MA 02476 (see "Technology Arts")
* development of Symposium for Critical Issues in the 21st
Century, a student centered course designed for producing
learning materials for other classes throughout the high school.
All projects are researched, written, edited, and desktop
published by students with their fellow students in mind.
Examples of contemporary issues: religious fundamentalism,
terrorism,
ethnicity, and diversity.
* involvement with the "EPIIC" Program with Tufts University:
students examine a single issue over the course of the year
culminating in a three day simulation, i.e. Role of Religion,
Nationality, and Ethnicity in the Balkans, Role of Water in the
Middle East.
Contact information: school: sobelsky@arlington.k12.ma.us
Margaret Reilley, Norwood High School, Nichols St,
Norwood, MA 02062, 781-769-2333
* developed and taught popular American Law course for 11th and
12th grade students of standard, college, and accelerated levels
* trainer for National Institute for Citizenship in the Law
* co-authored a student enacted "A Bill of Rights Assembly,"
published in the American Bar Association's Winter 1991 issue of
Update on Law-Related Education magazine.
* participated in first U.S. Supreme Court institute sponsored
by the U.S. Supreme Court Historical Society and the National
Institute for Citizenship Education in the Law
* reviewer of Street law, 6th edition
* Social Studies mentor
Current Interests/Projects:
* mock trials and moot court enactments
* following U.S. Supreme Court decisions
* continuing to improve units on the "Responsibility of
Citizenship" and the "Impact of Terrorism on Democratic
Institutions"
Contact Information: email: mreilley@norwood.K12.ma.us;
781-769-2333 (school)
Matt Torrens,
Saratoga High School, 20300 Herriman Ave., Saratoga, CA
9507
*
developed and incorporated History Day competition that focuses
on state standards in a Social Studies curriculum.
*
developed and incorporated local walking tours and volunteer
service in a Social Studies class to enhance learning and
community awareness and connection.
*planned effective and fun activities for Social Studies in and
outside of classes that reinforce state curriculum standards.
Contact Information:
matt.torrens@saratogahigh.org
Special Education
Elementary School:
Eleanor Demont, Heath School, 100 Eliot St., Chestnut Hill,
MA 02467 (see "Mentoring")
* co-taught inclusion model
* differentiation of instruction in inclusive classroom
Nova Stippel,
Stephen F. Austin School, 3022 Massey Tompkins, Baytown, Texas
77521
* wrote and received
grants for Special Education classes for about 4 years to
purchase much needed software, supplies, math and reading
resources.
* designed work with Special Education students that has been
recognized by the district
Current
Interests/Projects
* working on beginning an Inclusion program that is a 3 year
plan in coordination with the Region 4 District
* developing grants to get math textbooks for students.
* Elementary Math Peer Facilitator for the Special Education for
the district
* mentoring 3 other teachers in the district
* working with Kindergarten –Grade 5 students and teachers.
Contact Information:
Nova Stippel: nstippel@gccisd.net, ustippel@houston.rr.com,
Middle School:
Patrick Daly and Allison
Renna,
Waltham High School, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham,
(see "Special Education: High
School")
Janet Maguire,
Ottoson Middle School, Arlington, MA 02476
* Coordinator and teacher of an
Alternative Program for “at-risk” regular education students in
middle school
* Coordinator of a peer mentoring program between high school
and middle school students
* One
of the Founders of a volunteer homework support program in the
low-income housing development in Arlington
Current Interests/Projects
* Continuing and improving the volunteer homework center in
Arlington Housing Development
* Improving the High school Peer Mentoring Program
* Improving the Alternative Program to reach more students
Contact Information:
e-mail:
jmaguire924@hotmail.com, School: 781-316-3745
ext. 1323
High School:
Marcia Berkowitz, Dept. Chair of Student Services, Needham
High School, 609 Webster Street, Needham, MA 02494
* developed programming for students at risk through both
general and special education
* founding teacher of PRIDE Program: special education students
are provided with strong academic support and personal
connection
* established alternative programs for at risk students: 1) high
school program involves weekend trips for students and 2) middle
school students transitioning to high school are paired with
high school students and partake in special programming
* developed video on teen issues and the law
Current Interests/Projects
* alternative options for NHS students requiring different
programming.
Contact Information:
marcia_berkowitz@needham.k12.ma.us
Patrick Daly and
Allison Renna,
Waltham High School, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham
* Developed
and implemented a method, “Colorizing Writing,” that has proven
effective for students and teachers who are looking for ways of
improving student writing. The method helps students think more
clearly, write better compositions and responses, and gives
added value to peer and self editing and revision
*
First used with “at risk” students for the MCAS exam and with
ELL students, the approach led to increased scores and has been
expanded for all students.
Current Interests/Projects
*
Developing the materials to share with school systems through
teacher workshops for use with ELL, Special Education, Special
Needs and English Language Arts classes.
Contact Information:
writingwithcolors@yahoo.com
or visit
writingwithcolors.com
Allison Renna, 11 Minuteman Rd,. Hingham, MA
02043, 781 875-1685,
allierenna@comcast.net
Elizabeth Rochin,
Cupertino High School, 10100 Finch Ave.,Cupertino, CA 95014
* * since 1999, developed and implemented a new program,
Academic Communication (A.C.). The course supports high
school students who demonstrate significant delays in social
cognition. (Asperger’s Syndrome and Non-verbal Learning
Disabilities). The program has provided an effective inclusion
model for academically capable students who take A.C. as part of
their Special Education supports. There, they receive direct
instruction regarding social thinking skill development.
Current Interests/Projects
* Department Chair of Special Education at Cupertino High School
* working with my district to coordinate a teacher exchange with
two special education educators with whom I’m acquainted from
Johannesburg, South Africa.
* teaching courses on Autism Spectrum Disorders at San
Jose State University
Contact Information:
,Home 408-277-7612, School 408-366-7307,
email:
elizabeth_rochin@fuhsd.org
Cathy Shachoy, Norwood High School, Nichols Street,
Norwood, MA 02062
* initiated "Friendship Club," at Norwood High School, an
organization of students that provides social opportunities for
students with special needs with students in the regular
education program. There are social hours every other week and
some special events. The program has been in existence for 11
years.
Current Interests/Projects:
* developed "Challenger Sports" in Mansfield MA, a sports
program for children with special needs. It occurs one night per
week and involves volunteers from Mansfield High School.
Contact Information: cshachoy@norwood.k12.ma.us
Administration:
Joanne S. Delaney, Director of Guidance, Concord Carlisle
Regional School District, 500 Walden Street, Concord, MA 01742
* developed a secondary program supporting full inclusion, both
academic /vocational and co-curricular, for multiply-handicapped
students in the high school building
Current Interests/Projects
* exploring remedial reading models for both regular and Special
Education which provide documentation of progress
Contact Information: jdelaney@colonial.net
George Johnson, Director of Student Development and
Program Evaluation K-12, Needham Public Schools, 1330 Highland
Avenue, Needham, MA 02492 (see "Administration")
* leadership in an action research project which developed a
staff development tool for closing the achievement gap between
Black and White students
* activism in AIDS education and advocacy, along with prevention
education in general.
Audrey Seyffert, Assistant Superintendent of Special
Education, Natick Public Schools, 13 East Central Street,
Natick, MA 01760
* continued contribution and impact to special education for 36
years, teaching all levels, Preschool - Graduate School
* as an Assistant Superintendent, provided leadership constant
that ensures that all students receive the skills and tools they
need to become successful
* established effective channels for teachers, administrators
and parents to work in partnership to make a measurable
difference in the lives of all children
Current Interests/Projects
* mentoring new special educators from various parts of the
state, contributing to the growth and contribution of others
* Teachers21 Consultant, which provides me with opportunities to
tailor staff development programsin such areas as Behavior Management, Role of the Administrator
and Special Education and Inclusion.
* teaching courses at two graduate schools
Contact Information: audrey_seyffert@natick.k12.ma.us, work:
1-508-647-6510
Student Social Interaction
Elementary School:
Pauline Carey, Health, Dale Street School, Medfield MA 02052
(with Bethany Sager)
* developed a curriculum for "Character Education with an
Emphasis on Bullying and Teasing:" a whole school effort in
involving staff development, a binder of rationale, lesson
plans, activities, and journal articles for class meetings;
modeling; a "Dale Street Bridge" of lessons for parents to
reinforce concepts at home; monthly themes that classes are
responsible for and share with entire school population through
regular assemblies.
Current interests/Projects:
* constantly revising and updating the "Dale Street Bridge" and
"Dale Street School Character Education Program"
* researching disabilities awareness program for the school
system
Contact Information: pcarey@medfield.mec.edu
Ron Eckel, Principal, Israel Loring Elementary School,
Sudbury, MA (see "Principalship")
* implemented the "Open Circle Program:" 100% of the teaching
staff in trained in the social competency program at empowering
children, and which reflects "Core Values" of school: "BEST
EFFORT, CARING RESPECT, AND RESPONSIBILITY"
Susan Getty, Bennett-Hemenway School, 18 E. Evergreen
Road, Natick, MA 01760 (see "Mathematics")
* workshop leader for Title I
* leader for literacy
Bethany Sager, Grade 5 Teacher, Dale Street School, 45
Adams St., Medfield, MA 02052 (with Pauline Carey)
* developed a curriculum for "Character Education with an
Emphasis on Bullying and Teasing:" a whole school effort
in involving staff development, a binder of rationale, lesson
plans, activities, and journal articles for class meetings;
modeling; a "Dale Street Bridge" of lessons for parents
to reinforce concepts at home; monthly themes that classes are
responsible for and share with entire school population through
regular assemblies.
Current Interests/Projects:
* continuously developing the character education program:
communicating with families via school newsletter and seeking
materials to build up our character education library.
* working with students to develop meeting topics that will
address their needs and concerns related to teasing/ bullying,
and development of strong character.
* humane education, character education and the literature
connection
* stress reduction techniques.
Contact Information: bsager@medfield.mec.edu, school
phone: (508) 242-8758
Middle School:
Janet Maguire,
Ottoson Middle School, Arlington, MA 02476
(see "Special Education: Middle School")
* Coordinator and teacher of an
Alternative Program for “at-risk” regular education students in
middle school
* Coordinator of a peer mentoring program between high school
and middle school students
* One of the Founders of a volunteer homework support program in
the low-income housing development in Arlington
Contact Information:
e-mail:
jmaguire924@hotmail.com,
School: 781-316-3745 ext. 1323
Judy
Powers and Claire Regan,
Watertown Middle School, Waverley Ave., Watertown, MA 02472
(see "English As A Second Language")
High School:
Elizabeth Rochin,
Cupertino High School, 10100 Finch Ave., Cupertino, CA 95014
(see "Special Education: High School")
* * since 1999, developed and implemented a new program,
Academic Communication (A.C.). The course supports high
school students who demonstrate significant delays in social
cognition. (Asperger’s Syndrome and Non-verbal Learning
Disabilities). The program has provided an effective inclusion
model for academically capable students who take A.C. as part of
their Special Education supports. There, they receive direct
instruction regarding social thinking skill development.
Administration:
Audrey Seyffert, Assistant Superintendent of Special
Education, Natick Public Schools, 13 East Central Street,
Natick, MA 01760 (see "Special Education")
* continued contribution and impact to special education for 36
years, teaching all levels, Preschool - Graduate School
* leadership in behavioral management
Technology Arts
Elementary:
Debbie Watters, Director
of World Languages, Needham High School, 609 Webster St.,
Needham MA 02494
(See "Foreign Language: Spanish")
* began Spanish instruction in the elementary schools in Needham
using a combination of interactive television instruction and
in-class instruction.
High School:
Louis Dittami , Retired Science Instructor, Dover Sherborn High
School, 9 Junction Street, Dover, MA 02030
(see 'Science")
* created a Science and Technology Program for high school
students. Collaborating with an Industrial Arts instructor, we
instituted an applied engineering program for students. Students
are given some background in technical areas and then are
presented with problems. They are expected
to design and build solutions to those problems. One such
problem involves determining the tensile strength of various
types of twine. Each twine is rated at 50 lbs. or more. Students
are given one spring scale with a maximum rating of twenty-five
lbs, and they are expected to utilize basic
engineering and physics principles while building a device to
measure the tensile strength of the fibers.
Contact
Information: Louis Dittami, Research Leader, Fiber
Processing & Technology Team, Natick Soldier Center, US Army
Research, Development & Engineering Command, ATTN:
AMSRD-NSC-IP-F, Kansas Street, Bldg 36, Rm. 163, Natick, MA
01760-5019.
email: ldittami@yahoo.com
Sheldon Obelsky, Arlington High School, MA (see "Social
Studies")
* incorporated desktop publishing with curriculum
* developed "Symposium for Critical Issues in the 21st Century,"
a student centered course designed for producing learning
materials for other classes throughout the high school. All
projects are researched, written, edited, and desktop published
by students with their fellow students in mind. Examples of
contemporary issues: "religious fundamentalism, terrorism,
ethnicity, and diversity"
World
Geography
Eleanor Donato,
Watertown Middle School, Watertown, MA (see "Social
Studies")
* designed
and implemented World Geography curriculum to embrace
Watertown’s Diversity that connects students to current world
issues and events and has a culminating World’s Fair
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