Left: Teacher of the Month Emily Considine is pictured with Fouse principal Robb Stranges and WEF Executive Director Colleen Moidu. Center: Blendon Principal Kendall Harris with Teacher of the Month Derek Geist and Moidu. Right: Moidu, Teacher of the Month Candice Hall and South Principal Mike Starner.
The Westerville Education Foundation (WEF) named three educators Teacher of the Month for April – Emily Considine, Fouse Elementary School; Derek Geist, Blendon Middle School; and Candice Hall, Westerville South High School.
Emily Considine is described by her nominator as kind and firm. “On a given day, she’ll pass out hugs and stickers and praise generously while still keeping control of classroom routines and behavior which is so important for students,” says her nominator. Through her balanced approach in the classroom, students thrive in their love of learning. After a project where students watched caterpillars turn to monarch butterflies, the nominator’s child wanted to learn more on the topic. “The connection to an interesting topic in the classroom led to a desire for more knowledge, and a fun way for us to learn together at home.” Emily’s nominator concludes by saying, “It’s the perfect classroom environment for my child’s success.”
Derek Geist is described by his nominator as helpful and supportive. “Mr. Geist has been able to help build my daughter’s confidence when in math class,” says his nominator. He works with students to ensure they understand, even if it means changing his teaching style and presenting information in a variety of ways. “Mr. Geist takes the time to ensure my daughter understands the work presented to her. She said he shows her multiple ways to solve a problem, and allows her to use the way in which to solve that she understands.”
Candice Hall is described by her nominator as collaborative and dedicated. Candice’s nominator says, “My students are a hand-full, but Mrs. Hall always tries to help them reach their full potential.” Mrs. Hall’s open line of communication and involvement is wonderful for parents who need to be involved in day-to-day progress. “I have two students who are both special needs students. Together we discuss ways for supporting my children’s needs and progress in the classroom.” Candice’s nominator concludes by saying, “She continues to invest the time, energy, love, and resources to do what is best for each of her students.”
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.