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. For further information about each of the award recipients, go to "Profiles & Projects," ("elementary," "middle school," "high school," "administration," and "other") at this website.

 

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,  former 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:  mberkowitz@accept.org
 

Peggy Bryan, Principal, Sherman Oaks Community Charter School,  (retired) 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

  *  ordained a priest in the Episcopal Church in 2010 and facilitates outreach between church and community.

 Contact Information:  Peg06262@yahoo.com

 
Joanne S. Delaney, former Director of Special Education Concord-Carlisle High School, now at
Lincoln Sudbury Regional School District as the Director of Student Services.
  * 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
   *  inclusive programs for students with social emotional issues/ integrating therapeutic supports into the curriculum
Contact Information: joanne_delaney@lsrhs.net
 

Leslie L. Gant,  Assistant Principal, Mildred Ave K-8 School , Boston Public Schools, MA             

  * recognized  for  leadership abilities by the teachers and paraprofessionals at the Mildred  Ave K-8 School, in Boston Massachusetts. 

  * worked collaboratively with educators to build capacity and enhance ownership of student achievement by teachers.

  * worked with staff to improve the use of data to determine and enhance instructional practices.

Current Interests/Projects

  * working in Boston Public Schools as a Principal. 

  * providing leadership at three elementary schools while the sitting principals are not available.   

  * continuing to work with staff around using data to improve instruction.

Contact Information: email: lgant@boston.k12.ma.us or 617 447-4363

 
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, (retired)
 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, Westwood  Public Schools,
  (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: aseyffert@westwood.k12.ma.us
 

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@moecnet.org (781) 449-4575 (home)

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@comcast.net, 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

 

Allison Courchesne, Framingham High School, 115 A Street, Framingham, MA 01701( See "Arts:Performing" and "Library/Information Technology")

  *designed and  has run a senior class poetry slam at Framingham High School since 2003.  It has grown from a class project to a now highly anticipated school-wide event.

Current Interests/Projects

  * using “Moodle” (an outline course software) in my literature classes as a discussion forum

  * further incorporating interactive technology into teaching

Contact Information:   acourchesne@framingham.k12.ma.us  508-505-7835

 

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 33 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

  * students performing for community groups

  * addition of a Silent Hall in the new school building that that contains the photos of all past Bands to honor all current and former students who have maintained excellence for 32 years.

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,  Former Coordinator of "Talents Unlimited" and Artist in Residence at The Education Cooperative (TEC), Wellesley, MA and Arts Integration Specialist in Dance & Creative Movement
  * develops and implements "Arts in Motion" programs that integrate movement and dance into academic, physical education, music and visual art curricula
  * designs student instructional sessions that are kinesthetically interactive and explore the creative process
  * leads professional development workshops that train teachers to use creative movement and dance as vehicles for teaching and learning in alignment with learning standards outlined in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. 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. 
Current Interests/Projects:
  * Adjunct Faculty in Creative Arts and Learning Graduate Program, Endicott College 

  *  Designated Teaching Artist by the Massachusetts Cultural Council

  *  Arts Integration Specialist in Dance & Creative Movement (Elementary level)

  *  Artist in Residence, Luther Conant School, Acton, MA

  *  Sacred Dance Guild Board of Directors and  coordinator of SD-GO a global outreach initiative to assist dancers in need in other countries

  *  Performing member of Skyloom Sacred Dance Group and Encore Dance Ensembl
Contact Information: 3 Duston Lane, Acton, MA 01720, 978- 371-9833, EHSisler@comcast.net


Arts: Visual

Elementary:
Susan Logsdon: Pine Hill Elementary School, (retired) 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

Contact:  susanlogsdon65@gmail.com

 

Donna Maxwell, Visual Arts TeacherPotter Road School, 492 Potter Road, Framingham, MA 01701

  * integrated the visual art experience with other disciplines such as music, poetry, science, and social studies

  * celebrated student work throughout the school and in public venues

  * invited visiting artists to share new works and inspire student projects

  * collaborated with colleagues to enrich curriculum studies through the visual arts

  * developed integrated class including ELL and special education students

Current Interests/Projects

  * exhibit of current student work at the ocal library

  * seeking local Cultural Council grant for museum visit

  * grade 3 projects designed to enhance learning prior to future museum visits

  * friendship quilts for 1st grade teachers

  * interest: impact of photography on child labor laws

Contact information:  dmaxwell@framingham.k12.ma.us   508-877-5551

 

 

Middle School:

Sara Cummins, Visual Arts Teacher, Cameron Middle School, 215 Elm Street, Framingham MA 01701
 (See "Special Education: Middle School")
  *creates art projects which promote higher level thinking, visual literacy, and promote self-growth
  *creates a meaningful inclusion classroom for students with behavioral, emotional, physical, and cognitive 
    disabilities.
  *co-teaches with a variety of people in the school to create cross curriculum projects and promote social 
    wellbeing and growth through collaborative projects such as murals
Current Interests/Projects
  * Working with the literacy specialist, Director of Title1, and the Danforth Art Museum, to create a trimester
long project which focuses on creating art, speaking about art, and writing about art to connect with the 
district-wide literacy goal.
Contact Information:  scummins82@aol.com, 508-826-2618
 


Career Education
Linda Curtis, The Education Cooperative, 160 Grove Street, Wellesley, MA 02482, now at Framingham H.S.
  * 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


Character Education:

 

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:

  * teaching both Health and Physical Education
  * constantly revising and updating the "Dale Street Bridge" and "Dale Street School Character Education Program"
  * researching disabilities awareness program for the school system

  * added a character education library for teachers at our school. 

  * added "CharacterCorner" to our schools news letter. We have brought in guest speakers to increase the awareness of the value of character education in the schools.

  * continue to strive to improve (and now maintain) our school climate.
Contact Information:      pcarey@medfield.mec.edu

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

  * added a character education library for teachers at our school. 

  * added "CharacterCorner" to our schools news letter. We have brought in guest speakers to increase the awareness of the value of character education in the schools.

  * continue to strive to improve (and now maintain) our school climate.
Contact Information:     bsager@mdfield.mec.edu  school phone: (508) 242-8758

 

 

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: susanlogsdon65@gmail.com


Audrey Michelson-Newman, Program Coordinator, Children First Natick, (retired) 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   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
 

Allison Courchesne, Framingham High School, 115 A Street, Framingham, MA 01701( See "Arts:Performing" and "Library/Information Technology")

  *designed and  has run a senior class poetry slam at Framingham High School since  2003.  It has grown from a class project to a now highly anticipated school-wide event.

Current Interests/Projects

  * using “Moodle” (an outline course software) in my literature classes as a discussion forum

  * further incorporating interactive technology into teaching

Contact Information:   acourchesne@framingham.k12.ma.us  508-505-7835

 

 

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

Patrick Daly: 28 Allen Rd, Waltham, MA 02453 781-883-5089
 pdaly@north-reading.k12.ma.us

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@rcn.com

 

Nicola Kennedy, Miller Middle School, 6151 Rainbow Drive, San Jose, CA. 951

  * incorporates music, drama, art and other modalities in learning/teaching French Language and Culture.

  * involved in various professional organizations, participant of National French Contest

  * set up yearly school trip to Quebec/Montreal (now every two years)

  * helped promote French programs at middle schools within same district, by mentoring and  inclusion of students in same district in trip to Montreal

Current Interests/Projects

  * incorporating more technology in the curriculum.

  * increasing use of Target Language.

Contact Information: Kennedy_Nicola @cusdk8.org        (408)252-3755 Ext. 229


Spanish:

Terri Salsman de Rodriguex, Los Altos High School, 201 Almond Ave., Los Altos, CA  94022

  * implemented the use of a Student Response System and other technology into the Foreign Language classroom to enhance student learning and achievement.

  * excellence in teaching
  * implemented podcasting in department to encourage students to become effective  communicators in the greater community

  * planned & presented various departmental, intra and inter district technology workshop

Current Interests/Projects

  * technology mentoring & troubleshooting

  * implementation of Web 2.0 Tools in the classroom

  * differentiated instruction using technology to increase student participation & achievement

  * project based learning

  * technology presentations which encourage implementation of appropriate technology for content and grade levels – not only Foreign Language.

Contact Information: 650-960-8309, Terri.SalsmanDeRodriguex@mvla.net

 


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,  Former Coordinator of "Talents Unlimited" and Artist in Residence at The Education Cooperative (TEC), Wellesley, MA and Arts Integration Specialist in Dance & Creative Movement
  * develops and implements "Arts in Motion" programs that integrate movement and dance into academic, physical education, music and visual art curricula
  * designs student instructional sessions that are kinesthetically interactive and explore the creative process
  * leads professional development workshops that train teachers to use creative movement and dance as vehicles for teaching and learning in alignment with learning standards outlined in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. 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. 
Current Interests/Projects:
  * Adjunct Faculty in Creative Arts and Learning Graduate Program, Endicott College 

  *  Designated Teaching Artist by the Massachusetts Cultural Council

  *  Arts Integration Specialist in Dance & Creative Movement (Elementary level)

  *  Artist in Residence, Luther Conant School, Acton, MA

  *  Sacred Dance Guild Board of Directors and  coordinator of SD-GO a global outreach initiative to assist dancers in need in other countries

  *  Performing member of Skyloom Sacred Dance Group and Encore Dance Ensembl
Contact Information: 3 Duston Lane, Acton, MA 01720, 978- 371-9833, EHSisler@comcast.net



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

  * mentors youth in need of a “special friend” role model before, during, and after school

  * 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, (retired) 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:
 *continues to  develop additional interdisciplinary science units to prepare students for the MCAS Science and Technology tests.
 * offers Science enrichment courses for children

 * has also taught courses at local universities and presented her ideas at national conferences.

 * post-graduate courses include the topics of Multiple Intelligences, Inclusion for the Regular Classroom Teacher, and Pathways to Learning.
Contact Information: angdinap@aol.com


 

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, Westwood Public Schools,

(see "Special Education")

  * continued contribution and impact to special education for 36 years, teaching all levels, Preschool - Graduate School

Law-Related Education

Margaret Reilley, (retired) 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

 Contact: MRR-DR@comcast.net
 


Library/Information Technology
 

Allison Courchesne, Framingham High School, 115 A Street, Framingham, MA 01701( See "Arts:Performing" and "Library/Information Technology")

  *designed and  has run a senior class poetry slam at Framingham High School since 2003.  It has grown from a class project to a now highly anticipated school-wide event.

Current Interests/Projects

  * using “Moodle” (an outline course software) in my literature classes as a discussion forum

  * further incorporating interactive technology into teaching

Contact Information:   acourchesne@framingham.k12.ma.us  508-505-7835
 

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 with outreach to ELL students and other students having a wide range of abilities, including: book discussion groups, reading incentive programs, and enrichment reading groups for academically advanced students.

  * coordinated a number of curriculum-based projects at all grade levels designed to teach the research  process.

  * collaborated with teachers for interdisciplinary learning

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

    -advocacy and support for  multi/cultural students/ English Language Learners through the library

    -developing school-wide reading incentive programs to increase the amount of recreational reading  

    -using web 2.0 tools in school projects and as a means to communicate with parents and teachers

    -developing and implementing benchmarks based on new standards released by the MA School Library Association and the American Association of School Libraries

Contact Information:     judiparadis@gmail.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, (retired)  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: sgetty01@yahoo.com
 

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, (retired Bennett-Hemenway School, 18 E. Evergreen Road, Natick,

(see "Mathematics")

  * i   * 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.

Co   Contact Information: sgetty01@yahoo.com

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

 

Robert Lockhart, Science Department Chair, Needham High School, 609 Webster St., Needham, MA 02494     (see "Science")                                   

  * developed and implemented new science curricular sequence

  * developed standards for technical report writing (lab reports)

  * developed  theme-driven curriculum for all science courses

  * supervised/mentored teachers to improve the quality of instruction

  * created a Summer Science Institute for teachers that focused on cutting edge research in a variety of scientific fields

  * incorporated interdisciplinary themes in science classes

Current Interests/Projects

  * low stakes common formative assessments for evaluating student progress with content and science skills.

  * instructional rounds model to evaluate the quality of instruction within the school

  * cross- discipline/co-teaching models of instruction

  * electronic curriculum data bases and consistency of curriculum/instruction/assessments across teachers

  * introduction of real world problems into science curriculum and instruction

Contact Information:  bob_lockhart@needham.k12.ma.us   781-455-0800 ext 2949




Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom
 

Elementary:
Angela DiNapoli, (retired) 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:
 *continues to  develop additional interdisciplinary science units to prepare students for the MCAS Science and Technology tests.
 * offers Science enrichment courses for children

 * has also taught courses at local universities and presented her ideas at national conferences.

 * post-graduate courses include the topics of Multiple Intelligences, Inclusion for the Regular Classroom Teacher, and Pathways to Learning.
Contact Information: angdinap@aol.com


Principalship

 Elementary:

 

Peggy Bryan, Principal, Sherman Oaks Community Charter School,  (retired) 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

  *  ordained a priest in the Episcopal Church in 2010 and facilitates outreach between church and community.

 Contact Information:  Peg06262@yahoo.com


Ron Eckel, Principal,  (retired) 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: roneckel@gmail.com, home 617-489-5750
 

Middle School:

 

Leslie L. Gant, Principal, Mildred Ave K-8 School , Boston Public Schools, MA             

  * recognized  for  leadership abilities by the teachers and paraprofessionals at the Mildred Ave K-8 School, in Boston Massachusetts. 

  * worked collaboratively with educators to build capacity and enhance ownership of student achievement by teachers.

  * worked with staff to improve the use of data to determine and enhance instructional practices.

Current Interests/Projects

  * working in Boston Public Schools as a Principal. 

  * providing leadership at three elementary schools while the sitting Principals are not available.   

  * continuing to work with staff around using data to improve instruction.

Contact Information: email: lgant@boston.k12.ma.us or 617 447-4363

 


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.


School Nutrition

 

Susan LeBlanc, Director of Food Services, Barbers Hill ISD, P O Box 1108, Mont Belvieu TX  77580

  * developed a school garden for second grade students at Barbers Hill Primary School that was used to teach students about growing and tasting vegetables

 Current Interests/Projects

  * expanding the gardening project to another campus and grade levels

Contact Information: Susan LeBlanc <sleblanc@bhisd.net> (281) 576-2221 #1258

 

 

Science

Elementary:
Angela DiNapoli, (retired) 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:
 *continues to  develop additional interdisciplinary science units to prepare students for the MCAS Science and Technology tests.
 * offers Science enrichment courses for children

 * has also taught courses at local universities and presented her ideas at national conferences.

 * post-graduate courses include the topics of Multiple Intelligences, Inclusion for the Regular Classroom Teacher, and Pathways to Learning.
Contact Information: angdinap@aol.com

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

  * Retired Research Physicist and Research Leader, Fiber Processing & Technology Team, at  The U.S. Army Chemical and Biological Command in Natick
Contact Information: Louis Dittami, 4 B Governors Way Milford, MA 01757.

email: ldittami@yahoo.com


 

Robert Lockhart, Science Department Chair, Needham High School, 609 Webster St., Needham, MA 02494                                       

  * developed and implemented new science curricular sequence

  * developed standards for technical report writing (lab reports)

  * developed  theme-driven curriculum for all science courses

  * supervised/mentored teachers to improve the quality of instruction

  * created a Summer Science Institute for teachers that focused on cutting edge research in a variety of scientific fields

i  * incorporated interdisciplinary themes in science classes

Current Interests/Projects

  * low stakes common formative assessments for evaluating student progress with content and science skills.

  * instructional rounds model to evaluate the quality of instruction within the school

  * cross- discipline/co-teaching models of instruction

  * electronic curriculum data bases and consistency of curriculum/instruction/assessments across teachers

  * introduction of real world problems into science curriculum and instruction

Contact Information:  bob_lockhart@needham.k12.ma.us   781-455-0800 ext 2949


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

  * mentoring a new teacher in the district

  * traveled on a special school grant with a colleague to Italy and Iceland to explore the geography, geology, and cultures of the countries.

   * coaching intramural swimming after school

  * facilitated a course called "Keeping the Conversation Alive," which 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.org        781-786-5734


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    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: susanlogsdon65@gmail.com

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

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: MRR-DR@comcast.net

 

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:

Sara Cummins, Visual Arts Teacher, Cameron Middle School, 215 Elm Street, Framingham MA 01701
  *creates art projects which promote higher level thinking, visual literacy, and promote self-growth
  *creates a meaningful inclusion classroom for students with behavioral, emotional, physical, and cognitive 
    disabilities.
  *co-teaches with a variety of people in the school to create cross curriculum projects and promote social 
    wellbeing and growth through collaborative projects such as murals
Current Interests/Projects
  *Working with the literacy specialist, Director of Title1, and the Danforth Art Museum, to create a trimester
long project which focuses on creating art, speaking about art, and writing about art to connect with the 
district-wide literacy goal.
Contact Information:  scummins82@aol.com, 508-826-2618
 

 

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: mberkowitz@accept.org

 

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

  * beginning in 1999, I developed and implemented a specialized course of instruction called Academic Communication (A.C.) which is designed for adolescents students who demonstrate significant delays in social cognition/Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The program has provided an effective inclusion model for academically capable students who take A.C.as part of their Special Education supports.
  * ASD Transition development to the college setting
  * Trainer for the Added Authorization: Autism with San Joaquin County Office of  Education
  * Adjunct professor, San Jose State University, Special Education/Autism

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 the "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, former Director of Special Education Concord-Carlisle High School, now at
Lincoln Sudbury Regional School District as the Director of Student Services.
  * 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
   *  inclusive programs for students with social emotional issues/ integrating therapeutic supports into the curriculum
Contact Information: joanne_delaney@lsrhs.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 programs in 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. They are expected utilize basic engineering and physics principles building a device to measure the tensile strength of the fibers.
Current Interests/ Projects

  * Retired Research Physicist and Research Leader, Fiber Processing & Technology Team, at  The U.S. Army Chemical and Biological Command in Natick
Contact Information: Louis Dittami, 4 B Governors Way Milford, MA 01757.

email: ldittami@yahoo.com

 

 

Terri Salsman de Rodriguex, Los Altos High School, 201 Almond Ave., Los Altos, CA  94022  (see "Foreign Langauge")

  * implemented the use of a Student Response System and other technology into the Foreign Language classroom to enhance student learning and achievement.

  * excellence in teaching
  * implemented podcasting in department to encourage students to become effective  communicators in the greater community

  * planned & presented various departmental, intra and inter district technology workshop

Current Interests/Projects

  * technology mentoring & troubleshooting

  * implementation of Web 2.0 Tools in the classroom

  * differentiated instruction using technology to increase student participation & achievement

  * project based learning

  * technology presentations which encourage implementation of appropriate technology for content and grade levels – not only Foreign Language.

Contact Information: 650-960-8309, Terri.SalsmanDeRodriguex@mvla.net

 

 

 

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