2010-2011 AT&T NC Teacher of the Year Team

From Left to Right: Vann Lassiter (Northeast Region) • René Herrick (North Central Region) • Courtney Davis (Piedmont-Triad/Central Region) • Amber Alford Watkins (Sandhills/South Central Region) • Joy Jenkins (Northwest Region) • Dorothy Case (West Region) • Jennifer Facciolini (Southeast Region) • David Dahari (Southwest Region) • Stuart Miles (Charter Schools) For more information on any team member or on the AT&T North Carolina Teacher of the Year Program, please click the photograph below.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Week of August 23


(photo from left to right: Tonya Colwell, MES principal; Mary Lynn Warren, SCS technology; Katie Butler, MES teacher; Margaret Simonetti, MES teacher; JB, Rachel's Challenge presenter)


This has been a great week! On Monday, I had the opportunity to visit New Hanover County Schools and share some strategies to help teachers with facilitative instruction and Socratic seminar (one of my favorite topics!). With the hectic nature of the start of the school year, this group was especially dedicated to make the time to participate in a workshop two days before the students arrive! Some of the teachers had some amazing ideas to share with our group!

On Tuesday and Wednesday, I spent time in the office doing some research and in a couple of schools visiting with some beginning teachers. On Thursday afternoon I had the opportunity to hear a presentation from Rachel's Challenge. This inspiring presentation focused on the life and goals of Columbine victim, Rachel Scott. Three Sampson County teachers (Mrs. Margaret Simonetti, Mrs. Katie Butler, and Mrs. Brandi Hayes) wrote a grant to bring an anti-bullying campaign to Sampson County Schools. This program was the kick-off of that campaign.

The presentation focused on a code of ethics that Rachel had written in a class a few months prior to the Columbine shootings. She challenged her readers to make a difference in the world.Rachels Challenge consist's of 5 goals.
1. Eliminate Prejudice by looking for the best in others.
2. Dare to Dream, write down your goals and keep a journal.
3. Choose Your Influences, input determines output
4. Kind Words, small acts of kindness = BIG impact.
5. Start a chain reaction with family & friends.

It was truly an inspiring and emotional afternoon. Our middle and high school students had the opportunity to hear similar presentations during the school day and the community was invited to an evening presentation. I think all who attended will have some things to think about as we go through this school year. How will you make a difference?
For more information visit www.rachelschallenge.org

Today I am spending the day organizing and completing paperwork and preparing for a busy week next week. Have a great Friday!
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