The Westerville Education Foundation (WEF) named three educators Teacher of the Month for November – Jennifer Reeves, Hanby Elementary School; Amy Kelly, Robert Frost Elementary School; and Katherine Cress, Westerville Central High School.
Jennifer Reeves is described by her nominator as someone who goes above and beyond. “I was so nervous and anxious sending my son to school all day. Mrs. Reeves made the transition so easy,” says her nominator. Through little activities and rewards, she is motivating students to have a successful transition and to help the transition for parents as well. “Mrs. Reeves has gone above and beyond with helping my son. She took the time to find what motivated him and created a wonderful communication journal to go between school and home to keep us informed of his accomplishments.” Jennifer’s nominator concludes by saying, “I cannot say enough positive wonderful things about Mrs. Reeves.”
Amy Kelly is described by her nominator as devoted and passionate. “Amy is the most devoted teacher I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Her heart and passion for helping special needs kiddos is incredible,” says her nominator. She works with students to understand their goals and then works with other teachers to be an advocate for success. “Last year, [my son] was adamant about spending most of his day with gen ed but needed help from Amy on his reading. She coordinated with his first-grade teacher and rearranged both of their schedules to help him stay mainstream and limit the transitions during his day.” Her nominator concludes by saying, “She truly is like a second mama bear.”
Katherine Cress is described by her nominator as caring and encouraging. Katherine’s nominator says, “She makes us feel like she cares and having so many cases, classes, and family life she makes sure she gets back with me anytime I reach out. She is a great motivator and encourages [our son] to be better and helps him believe in himself.” Katherine works with her students by empowering them to be advocates for themselves and to be accountable. She gives them the tools to help them achieve their goals and build confidence. Katherine’s nominator concludes by saying, “I enjoy watching her interact with him because I can tell she impacts his success. I can see the joy she gets out of teaching and is always smiling which is great to see as a parent.”
The Westerville Education Foundation’s Teacher of the Month Program is sponsored by Education First Credit Union and ThisWeek Community News, with support from Otterbein University. The Mission of the Westerville Education Foundation is to enrich the learning experience and broaden the minds of our students through the funding and support of innovative educational programs. To nominate, give or join, please visit www.WestervilleEducationFoundation.com.