Gold Stars for Alberta
Science and Math Teachers
by Kimberly Nishikaze
The exams are over. The lockers have been cleared out for another year. Ready for that summer vacation? It's a time that students and teachers both relish.
Before school ended for the summer, 13 science
and math teachers received an unexpected surprise. APEGGA announced the
recipients of its annual Teacher Awards Program, which recognizes exceptional
educators in science and math.
Now in its seventh year, the program rewards
elementary, junior high and senior high school teachers who "Make
School Cool" for their students. Through inspiration or perspiration,
they work hard to encourage young minds to excel in difficult subjects.
For their efforts these mentors are acknowledged by APEGGA at a public
ceremony and receive $500 each towards curriculum materials or field trips.
This year, the Association received more than 1,000 letters of support
from students, parents, principals and school superintendents, as well
as from other teachers, nominating a total of 130 teachers. It's the largest
number of educators nominated since the program's inception in 1991. The
nominations are adjudicated by APEGGA volunteers throughout the province.
This year's recipients are:
Carol Black, teaches Grade 2 math and science at Hazel Cameron School (Vulcan);
Daryl Chichak, teaches Grade 5 science at Holy Family School (Edmonton);
Paul Dorin, teaches Grade 6 science at Father Damien School (Calgary);
Betty Green, teaches Grade 11/12 math at Alternative High School (Calgary);
Virgil Green, teaches Grade 7 science at Brooks Junior High School (Brooks);
Greg Hall, teaches Grade 5 math and science at St. Martin de Porres School (Red Deer);
Kaye MacDonald, teaches Grades 7-9 math at Sir John Thompson Catholic Junior High School (Edmonton);
Jill Mattock, P.Geol., teaches Grade 11/12 science at Paul Rowe High School (Manning);
Dan Rizzuto, teaches Grade 8 math and science at Dr. Karl A. Clark School (Fort McMurray);
Peter Schill, teaches Grade 11/12 math at George McDougall High School (Airdrie);
Rhonda Siwak, teaches Grade 4 science at A.H. Dakin School (Edson);
Verner Thompson, teaches elementary science at Mannville School (Mannville).
Congratulations to this year's recipients and
to all those nominated! 