The Westerville Education Foundation (WEF) named three educators Teacher of the Month for April – Heather Ivery, Mark Twain Elementary School; Jessie Drum, McVay Elementary School; and Alyssa Mazey, Westerville South High School.
Heather Ivery is a kindergarten teacher at Mark Twain Elementary. Her nominator, Jillian Lang, is the parent of a former student. Lang explained how Ivery helped her son navigate a very tough kindergarten year, which had a lasting impact on his academic success. She describes how Ivery educated herself about her son’s specific health and learning needs to ensure a safe and successful kindergarten experience. “She fought hard for my little guy,” said Lang. “She inspired us by being such a strong advocate and helped my husband and I become stronger and more knowledgeable about how to get our son what he needs.” Lang also describes how Ivery’s support didn’t end at the end of the school year as she kept in touch all summer long to ensure that this student had the best start possible to his first grade year. “She treats all of her kids like they are her own and truly loves them.”
Jessie Drum is a kindergarten teacher at McVay Elementary who was nominated by parent Lisa Limes. Limes describes Drum as a passionate educator, commending professionalism and the great impact it has had on her daughter. “When it came to preschool, my daughter was very hesitant and on many days would not want to go,” said Limes. Her daughter is now not only excited to go to school each day, but comes home motivated to continue learning on her own, quoting Mrs. Drum often. “That is so exciting to see because as a parent you want to see your child not only be successful, but develop a passion for learning new things.” Limes also describes how helpful Drum has been in providing useful advice for parents on how to engage their child in after school conversation as well as how to continue to support their learning at home.
Alyssa Mazey was nominated by parent Vanessa Melson. Melson describes Mazey as resourceful, caring, helpful and knowledgeable and as someone who always makes herself available to help students and parents. “She believes in my student which has allowed my student to believe in herself,” said Melson. The nominator describes Mazey as a committed educator who has helped her and her daughter find answers and solutions in difficult situations. “Ms. Mazey is a motivator and a game changer in the education system. She is always there for you no matter how tough it may get.”
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.