Ms. Christine Pekatos (English Language Arts) and Ms. Gayle Ritchie (Administrative Assistant and Testing Coordinator) were named as this year’s Teacher of the Year and Professional of the Year.
Ms. Pekatos was one of five nominees recognized by her peers, along with Ms. Daniels (Careers) Ms. Ferris (World Languages), Ms. Grant (Social Studies), and Ms. Olsen (Social Studies). The five teachers went through a rigorous process that involved observations by administrative staff, instructional coaches, and a parent representative).
Principal Scott Hanson called all five nominees the best of the best, how each candidate’s lessons were advanced with rigor, and how the staff deliberated for over an hour because it was a real tough call.
Along with Ms. Ritchie, nominees for the professional of the year included Mr. Ellis (9th Grade Counselor), Mr. (Custodial), Coach Frasier (“Coach T”), Ms. Lundy (Instructional Coach), Ms. Sytsema (Front Office).
Winners were surprised with appearances by their family members, and each received an award check and the afternoon off. All nominees were recognized and received beautiful bouquets of flowers.
Congratulations to this year’s nominees and winners!
