Nova Scotia teachers recognized for making a difference

HALIFAX, Nov. 20, 2013 /CNW/ - The Nova Scotia Teachers Union is recognizing nine of its members for making an impact in the lives of their students through the second year of its Teachers Make a Difference recognition program. The program, which took place from October 15 to November 10, encouraged students to nominate a teacher who has made a big difference in their lives, and contributed to their school and community. It garnered 475 nominations representing 238 teachers. Each recognized recipient of the Teachers Make a Difference program will receive a $300 donation towards their home school or campus breakfast or library program.

"Teachers make a difference by not only developing minds and skills, but focusing on students' hearts, hopes and dreams," says NSTU president Shelley Morse. "Teachers care about the needs of their students and are responsive to their varied strengths and needs.  These nine teachers are representative of all teachers and community college members in the province."

The following NSTU members are being recognized as teachers who make a difference:

Effie Boutilier, an English teacher at Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High in Antigonish; Carrie Ann Curry, an English teacher at Halifax West High School; Gaye Dixon, Phys Ed. and science teacher at Rankin School of the Narrows in Iona, Cape Breton; Marie-Josée Doucet, a Grade Primary teacher at École Beaubassin; Roland Hannem, a guidance counsellor at South Centennial and Yarmouth Central schools; Michelle Longley, a Grade 7 English teacher at Chester Area Middle School; Chara Ross, a junior high science teacher at Parrsboro Regional High; Dr. Patrick Sherlock, Chair, Research Ethics Board, Community College faculty member, School of Business, NSCC Waterfront Campus; and Krista Wright, a Primary teacher at Bridgetown Regional Elementary School.

Some of the reasons cited by students in their nominations as to why their teachers make a difference include: demonstrating kindness, patience, warmth and dedication, encouraging self-expression, being an inspiration, instilling passion, and making learning fun. Until December 8, a series of four 30-second vignettes will be broadcast on CTV, which will focus on the ways teachers make a difference, along with a 15-second spot announcing the selected NSTU members. The vignettes are also posted on the NSTU's website at nstu.ca through its YouTube station at youtube.com/nstuwebcast.

The Nova Scotia Teachers Union represents more than 10,000 public school teachers, Community College faculty and professional support staff and teachers who work for the Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority. Since 1895, it has worked to improve the quality of public education in Nova Scotia.

 

SOURCE: Nova Scotia Teachers Union

Angela Murray, NSTU Public Relations Coordinator
Telephone: [phone], Cell: 902-497-0194, Email: [email protected]