April Teacher and Employee of the Month are Chosen 

Emily Peterson selected as the April 2008 Teacher of the Month;Teri Barksdale recognized as Employee of the Month for April 2008

Emily Peterson, the April 2008 Teacher of the Month, has dedicated 40 years of her life to teaching exceptional students in Florida.  Fortunately for our community, 32 of those years have been in Wakulla County.  Mrs. Peterson, an FSU graduate, has taught at Yulee Junior High School, Fernandina Middle School, Wakulla High School, Wakulla Middle School and Riversprings Middle School.

Mrs. Peterson enjoys designing thematic units that both motivate and actively engage her ESE students.  She meets the challenge of teaching three different grade levels by providing instruction and materials that contain visual, auditory, and kinesthetic components.  Mrs. Peterson also organizes off campus field trips related to the curriculum so her students have a real-world perspective.  Parents, faculty, and staff participate in the culminating celebrations of thematic units as student work is showcased.

“When my kids come tumbling through the classroom door first thing in the morning, mostly happy, sometimes grumpy, full of questions, always eager to talk and to share, you just know that this day is going to be full of possibilities for each and every one of us,” Emily Peterson explains.  “A recent visitor remarked that our classroom functions like a well oiled machine.  This is because all of us are committed to providing the best educational experience possible for our students,” Mrs. Peterson concludes.

Mrs. Peterson contributes to her profession and community by staying active in a variety of organizations such as the March of Dimes, Special Olympics and Relay for Life.

RMS Principal Dod Walker applauds Emily Peterson’s caring and tireless efforts.  He shares, “Mrs. Peterson is patient and understanding yet firm in her belief that her students must be held accountable and they must learn while in her class.  She is loved by students and parents alike and well respected among her peers.  Her innovative and professional abilities are an asset to Riversprings Middle School.”

Teri Barksdale, Wakulla County School District Bus Driver, is the April Employee of the Month.  Not only is Teri Barksdale recognized for providing safe transportation for Wakulla’s students since 1997 she is also recognized for her willingness to help wherever she is needed.  Teri Barksdale adds, “From the youngest to the oldest students that I transport, they all add something to my day.  What a pleasure it is to have a job where I can serve the students of Wakulla County.”

The amusing Pre-K comments make her days special as she looks forward to sharing in the student’s excitement.  Mrs. Barksdale is also a product of the Wakulla County School District, graduating from WHS in 1991.  She attended Shadeville Elementary School and Wakulla Middle School as well.

Pat Jones, Transportation Coordinator, highlights Miss Teri’s skills as a driver, “Mrs. Barksdale has participated in the Bus Road-E-O for three years and has placed every year.  She takes her job serious and her number one concern is student safety.  Teri demonstrates patience and understanding that is needed with all students.  Mrs. Barksdale is very deserving of this award.”

When not safely transporting students, Mrs. Barksdale works extra hours beyond her bus driving duties to keep the school board white fleet vehicles in great shape.

This article originally published on April 22, 2008.

Written by :

mkwestmark

 

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