MONROE - Heather Peterson, a science teacher at Monroe Middle School, was presented with the Outstanding Educator Award at the Monroe School District Scholarship and Awards Program on Thursday. The award is sponsored by the Monroe Excellence in Education Fund and includes a $500 stipend to be used for professional development or classroom teaching materials.
The foundation presents the award annually through funds provided by the Class of 1977 in an effort to recognize outstanding achievements and performance of teachers in the Monroe school district.
The Outstanding Educator Award is presented to an individual teacher or team of teachers in the school district who exemplify the highest standards and practices of the teaching profession. These qualities include demonstrating distinguished performance in the classroom, professionalism, leadership, collegiality, innovation, creativity and a commitment to students and their learning.
Peterson has taught in Monroe for 17 years. Called an exemplary role model for staff across the district, "she is respected by co-workers and admired and loved by students. She has high expectations for both herself and her students; she works tirelessly to increase student achievement and is meticulous about the details of anything she develops. Her quick wit and warm heart engage the students in every aspect of the learning experience. She was nominated by district colleagues and a parent who mentioned her passion for students and enthusiasm for learning," according to a district news release.
"Her passion, intelligence and ability to excite and energize students is exceptional. She encourages a problem-solving approach, with a focus on analysis, creativity and critical thinking. Those who work closely with her report she is amazing and one of the most dynamic teachers in the district.
"This invigorating educator has been described as someone who not only finds the positive in every student, but also helps each student find the good, the achiever, in him or herself. Her peers report that she is intelligent, collaborative, passionate and well respected by students, staff and parents, with a passion, dedication and commitment to life-long learning," the release continued.
Other educators recognized for their commitment to education and students were Kelly Knox and Rachel Showers, who received honorable mention honors.
Established in 2002, the Monroe EIE Fund has presented more than $162,000 in grants to the district for the enhancement of educational programs. For more information or to donate to the fund, contact Linda Gebhardt, donor services representative for the Community Foundation, at 608-328-4060 or visit the Community Foundation web site at www.cfsw.org/excellence-in-education-funds/monroe-eie.
The foundation presents the award annually through funds provided by the Class of 1977 in an effort to recognize outstanding achievements and performance of teachers in the Monroe school district.
The Outstanding Educator Award is presented to an individual teacher or team of teachers in the school district who exemplify the highest standards and practices of the teaching profession. These qualities include demonstrating distinguished performance in the classroom, professionalism, leadership, collegiality, innovation, creativity and a commitment to students and their learning.
Peterson has taught in Monroe for 17 years. Called an exemplary role model for staff across the district, "she is respected by co-workers and admired and loved by students. She has high expectations for both herself and her students; she works tirelessly to increase student achievement and is meticulous about the details of anything she develops. Her quick wit and warm heart engage the students in every aspect of the learning experience. She was nominated by district colleagues and a parent who mentioned her passion for students and enthusiasm for learning," according to a district news release.
"Her passion, intelligence and ability to excite and energize students is exceptional. She encourages a problem-solving approach, with a focus on analysis, creativity and critical thinking. Those who work closely with her report she is amazing and one of the most dynamic teachers in the district.
"This invigorating educator has been described as someone who not only finds the positive in every student, but also helps each student find the good, the achiever, in him or herself. Her peers report that she is intelligent, collaborative, passionate and well respected by students, staff and parents, with a passion, dedication and commitment to life-long learning," the release continued.
Other educators recognized for their commitment to education and students were Kelly Knox and Rachel Showers, who received honorable mention honors.
Established in 2002, the Monroe EIE Fund has presented more than $162,000 in grants to the district for the enhancement of educational programs. For more information or to donate to the fund, contact Linda Gebhardt, donor services representative for the Community Foundation, at 608-328-4060 or visit the Community Foundation web site at www.cfsw.org/excellence-in-education-funds/monroe-eie.