The Westerville Education Foundation (WEF) named three educators Teacher of the Month for January – Elizabeth Hafner, Mark Twain Elementary School; Maria Soisson, Walnut Springs Middle School; and Jon Boyd, Westerville North High School.
Elizabeth Hafner is described by her nominator as inspirational and encouraging. Elizabeth’s nominator says, “Mrs. Hafner has inspired both me and my daughter in myriad ways.” Elizabeth works with each of her students to ensure that they are challenged and are supported in their growth. “Her holistic approach inspires my child to come home each day with a story about what Mrs. Hafner is doing in the classroom, how much they love her – and how they can’t wait to see her the next day.” Her nominator concludes by saying, “…It is obvious that Mrs. Hafner is a model teacher and person in her building, inspiring my child to take notes of all of the ways she goes above and beyond for her students, and for the parents.”
Maria Soisson is described by her nominator as detailed and instructive. “Ms. Soisson has sent out detailed daily emails explaining the first weeks of school and what to expect as a new middle schooler. This has been incredibly instructive and reassuring for us and our students, who are new to both middle school and the district this year,” says her nominator. Ms. Soisson’s detailed expectations and tips help students be successful in their transition. Her nominator concludes by saying, “Her initiation during a hectic week has been a warm welcome for us.”
Jon Boyd is described by his nominator as understanding and supportive. “Jon went above and beyond to help our daughter. He’s an amazing teacher,” his nominator said. Mr. Boyd is inclusive and makes sure all students have a positive experience. “Jon was able to connect with our children, because of their anxiety disorder, they are very timid.” His nominator concludes by saying, “Our children love him. The first day of school, they went to see him even though they were not in his class.”
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.