The Westerville Education Foundation (WEF) named three educators Teacher of the Month for January – Danielle Whitehead, Annehurst Elementary School; Michael McClain, McVay Elementary School; and Bethany Barlow, Westerville North High School.
Danielle Whitehead is described by her nominator as positive and supportive. “She is a voice for the kids that need extra support,” says her nominator. Danielle worked with a particular student after they were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder to implement a plan and ensure that the student would have a good day. Through an innovative and caring approach, Danielle worked with the student’s parent to offer support and an open door. “He needed someone to trust and he still talks about her often. She is very on board with trying new ideas and is always looking for innovative things to help all of her students with whatever they may be struggling with.” Danielle’s nominator concludes by saying, “She is an AMAZING teacher and advocate for all students.”
Michael McClain was nominated by a fellow educator. He is described as kind, uplifting and passionate. “He has such an amazing relationship with all of his students and it’s really inspiring to watch,” says his nominator. Being a new teacher in the district, Michael’s nominator was originally apprehensive about the change. However, she noted his “outpouring of assistance” and the “time he put into making me feel so comfortable” as ways Michael went above and beyond to ease any fears she may have had. “As the school year began, I quickly began to see that he was not only a kind, helpful person, but he was an amazing teacher to all of our kiddos!”
Bethany Barlow was nominated by a student and is described as inspirational and encouraging. Bethany’s nominator says, “I have been blessed to know Mrs. Barlow since freshman year and will be saddened to leave North because of her influence on me.” Through assistance in other classes, and helping her nominator prep for ACT exams, Mrs. Barlow has inspired this student to work hard and better themselves. “I struggle in school and she has always lent a hand to help guide me. Mrs. Barlow has inspired me to work even harder to study Early Childhood Education.” Bethany’s nominator concludes by saying, “I whole heartedly believe and recommend Mrs. Barlow for Teacher of the Month. And in my eyes, she will always be my Teacher of the Month”.
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.