Showing posts with label teachers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label teachers. Show all posts

Elementary Teacher of the Year Tamara Hayes models compassion through understanding

Friday, May 18, 2018

Tamara Hayes models good listening skills

Text and photos by Luanne Brown

Teacher Tamara Hayes is the calm in the storm. Her Cascade K-8 Community School classroom is filled with 27 active and engaged 2nd and 3rd graders, each bursting with a story that must be told, or a question that must be answered — now!

In confronting an enthusiastic wall of wildly waving raised hands, Hayes deploys her secret weapon— kindness. Each child gets addressed by name. No child goes unnoticed. Whether she’s instructing students about the difference between acids and bases on the pH scale or setting expectations for mutual respect while someone else is talking, Hayes is in control.

Hayes conducts her classroom like a skilled Maestra conducts a rambunctious orchestra. 
With her right hand, she points to a slide projected on the white board at the front of the room. Most eyes follow. Hayes uses her left hand to motion toward a student who has just jumped to his feet and asks him to sit down.

Tamara talks pH

She engages the class with thoughtful observations about the subject she is teaching, and she truly wants to hear their thoughts, framing her questions with statements that invite participation, such as, “I’m curious about what you learned...”

When chaos erupts, as it’s bound to with this age group, it doesn’t last long. “Give me 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.” Hayes counts down, using her fingers, and as she counts, the decibel level drops from play-yard loud to pin-drop quiet.

It’s no surprise that this well-loved teacher is the winner of this year’s Shoreline School District award for Elementary Educator of the Year. Her gentleness and the fact that she ‘doesn’t yell’ (as one student confides) makes her a winner with everyone at school.

Sam Kuo, 12, and a 6th grader at Cascade, recalls, “She always cared about what I was saying — even if it was about rocks.” 
His sister, Evelyn “Evie” Kuo, age 7, who is currently in Haye’s class, said. “Tamara is amazing. Especially after she’s had her coffee! She's so encouraging, like when I got behind in writing. She didn't make me feel bad and she made it fun to get caught up.”

Some people are born knowing what they want to do. That is the case for Hayes, who is a graduate of Shorecrest High School. “Ever since I was a little kid, I knew in my heart I was going to be a teacher. I love being in the classroom, being with kids, and learning myself.” Hayes attended the University of Washington and went on to get her teaching certificate at UW Bothell. She has been teaching for 10 years.

Teacher Tamara holds the attention of her students

“The job never gets boring. It’s fun,” Hayes said. 
“The kids make me laugh. I really love connecting with them and building a strong classroom community where kids have a sense of belonging. 
"Kids need that as they go throughout their day. They should also have choice in some of the things they do and experience joy, along with the feeling of success.”

Hayes said her philosophy of teaching is based on the belief that understanding leads to compassion. “It’s important that I try to understand a student’s ‘whole picture’. Understanding where they’re coming from helps me figure out how I can best help them.”

She cites the powerful example of a visually impaired student who, one year, gave a report about visual impairment. 
“Students had the chance to actually see how the world looked to someone who was visually impaired. That was a powerful lesson in compassion for the kids as well as for her and helped them all understand what kind of challenges the visually impaired student faced every day.

Hayes is very honored to have won the district award. “It was a total surprise to me.” She feels fortunate to be able to work not only with her students, but with colleagues, parents, and other educators.

In addition to her classroom teaching, Hayes loves to volunteer. She has served on several district-wide and Cascade-specific committees and is the bargainer for the Shoreline Education Association.

“I admire Tamara for the balance that she brings to everything that she does. From teaching, her active role in the teacher's union, mentorship, and leadership, Tamara maintains a calm and thoughtful demeanor, and is a role model to everyone she works with,” said Principal Francescutti.

When Hayes is not in the classroom or doing her volunteer activities, she plays on a softball team called the Sluggernaughts. She also loves skiing and used to be a ski instructor at Alpental.



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Accolades accumulate for Shorewood auto shop teacher

Thursday, May 17, 2018

Wesley Proudlove, Shoreline School District
Secondary Educator of the Year
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

By Luanne Brown

Wesley Proudlove has been the Auto Shop and Robotics Teacher at Shorewood High School for the past 11 years. First impressions are of a man with a mission. Always on the move (he clocks in over 35,000 steps most days), he walks with purpose and that purpose is to empower every one of his students to do their best.

He holds the same standards for himself, as evidenced by the accolades he’s recently received. Not only was he named the Shoreline School District’s Secondary Educator of the Year, he received the Shorewood PTSA Outstanding Teacher of the Year designation as well as a similar award from the Paul Allen School of Computer Science at the University of Washington.

Thanks to smart investing, Proudlove, who is originally from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, was able to retire from a career in the car industry in his early 40’s. After three years of retirement, he volunteered to help keep the automotive shop at Shorewood open until they found a teacher who could take over from him. The rest, as they say — is history.

If you haven’t guessed by now, Proudlove is not your standard teacher. But then he’s not teaching a standard class either. “I teach creative thinking and problem solving. I tell students, ‘I don’t want you to be an auto mechanic. I want you to be a problem solver.’”

Wes Proudlove with students
Photo by Luanne Brown
The only time he shows his students how to do something is when he takes what he’s done apart and makes them redo it themselves.

One of Proudlove’s greatest joys is to see ‘a light go off’ in a student’s head.

“When a student knows something from physics and chemistry and puts it together on their own in my class — it’s a win.”

“Mr. Proudlove has a rare gift for teaching ‘hands on’ skills in the auto shop and in the robotics program. 
"Once students have seen a demonstration, he’s a master at empowering them to succeed independently and solve problems without teacher intervention. 
"Through questioning and coaching in this process, students build skills and knowledge very quickly,” said Bill Dunbar, the Principal at Shorewood High School.

Teaching kids to be independent and creative thinkers and teaching them to be ‘doers’ is important to Proudlove. “For both my auto shop class and our robotics program — the kids do everything. “We function as Grade 15. We have our own language and do things that other students can’t do,” Proudlove said.

Proudlove encouraged Carly Krantz, 17, a senior, to start a robotics team for girls. “He gives down-to-earth advice,” Krantz said. “He also does a lot for his students, like coming in on Saturday. He really puts forth a lot of effort for us and wants everything we do to be student run.”

Shawn Laris, 18, a senior who plans on going to culinary school, said, “Proudlove connects with every student — even those who aren’t motivated. He respects and trusts us. This gives us the confidence we need to reach our goals. As graduation approaches, I’m happy to be able to call Proudlove not just a teacher but a mentor, role model, and most of all friend.”

Proudlove is proud of his students' achievements
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

In addition to all that he does during the school day, Proudlove also helps with an after-school robotics team.

“Over the years, many, many students have expressed that Mr. Proudlove’s classes have caused them to fall in love with STEM learning, science and engineering,” Principal Dunbar said.

Proudlove’s dream is to make the Shoreline School District into a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) hub and is working with the district, corporations, and other schools to make this dream come true.

Proudlove has former students who have gone on to be Fulbright International Scholars, have built cars and robots for Tesla Motors, raced rally cars internationally, and built race cars for multi-million-dollar teams. 

“But the students I am most proud of are the ones who are proud to come in and announce that they bought a home or have entered a trade or just are happy and looking forward to the future.”

Proudlove said, “The award from Shoreline school district is really unexpected. I focus so much on my students that I really had no idea what a big thing this is. I have been getting congrats from all sorts of people in the district and beyond. Even my barista!”



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"The Cool Glasses Club" teacher awarded $3,000 grant from Albertsons / Safeway

Friday, May 11, 2018

LFP teacher Kristin Reinbold is surprised with a $3000 check
presented by Jim Karnes, LFP Albertson's Store Director
Photo courtesy Safeway

Lake Forest Elementary Teacher, Kristin Reinbold, is the winner of a $3,000 Safeway Albertsons Innovation in Education Grant.

Photo courtesy Safeway 
The money will be used to fund ‘The Cool Glasses Club’ which focuses on students with vision issues and helps promote self-esteem.

Kristen was surprised with the award at a teacher staff meeting on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 by the store director of the Lake Forest Park Albertsons, Jim Karnes.

Albertsons Companies is one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, operating stores across 35 states under 19 well-known banners including Albertsons, Safeway, and Haggen.

In 2015 alone the company gave more than $270 million in food and financial support to the more than 2,200 communities it serves in the areas of hunger relief, education, cancer research and treatment, programs for people with disabilities, and veterans' outreach. 


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Shorecrest teacher honored at CenturyLink Field as Hero in the Classroom

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Shorecrest High School principal Lisa Gonzalez; Shorecrest High School teacher and 2017 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom honoree Lane Loland; and Marla Miller, assistant superintendent, Shoreline Public Schools. Photo taken in the Coach’s Loft at CenturyLink Field during the celebration honoring all 16 teachers (including Mr. Loland) who were recognized as 2017 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom.


Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks celebrated the 16 Puget Sound-area teachers recognized as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom®during the 2017 NFL season at an April 27 luncheon at CenturyLink Field.
Among the honorees was Shoreline Public Schools teacher Lane Loland, an athletic coordinator and social studies instructor at Shorecrest High School. Shoreline Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Marla Miller and Shorecrest principal Lisa Gonzalez joined Mr. Loland at the celebration.

Lisa Gonzalez, Lane Loland with Seahawks
running back C.J. Prosise (#22)
The event was held in the Coach’s Loft and also included a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, including a stop in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher discovered a personalized locker.

Inside were a copy of the April 27 Seattle Times ad honoring them, a commemorative 2017 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom brochure and Seahawks items.

Seattle Seahawks running back C.J. Prosise (#22) made a surprise appearance— sharing stories about the impact teachers have had on his life, signing autographs, and posing for photos.

The Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program recognizes teachers in front of their students and peers at in-school presentations, and they receive a $2,000 donation for classroom books and supplies.

Lane Loland received his award during a surprise presentation at Shorecrest in December 2017. He was nominated by Shorecrest principal Lisa Gonzalez, who wrote in her nomination:

“Simply put, Lane Loland is a Shorecrest legend — he is our ‘Mr. Holland.’ A 30-year veteran of teaching, he has taught every range of course and student. He has also coached and served as our athletic director. Mr. Loland expects the best from his students and sets high standards. Whether in the classroom or on the athletic field, he helps every student be their best, and he does so with tremendous care, poise and dignity. 
“Before becoming a teacher, Mr. Loland was an attorney. He made a conscious choice to switch careers and teach, serving our young people and bettering the community in the process. Students want to do well by him and the staff trust and respect him completely. It is very difficult to summarize all that Lane Loland has contributed to Shorecrest, from AP scores to ensuring that our sports programs are valued, supported and centered on the right things. He is truly our ethical center— and he is retiring at the end of this academic year. Please help us honor him and all that he has done for the Shorecrest community.”

Heroes honorees also receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Mr. Loland attended the Seahawks’ Dec. 3, 2017 match-up with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Learn more about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom or how to nominate a teacher here.



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King’s Elementary School teacher to be honored as King County Earth Hero

Friday, April 20, 2018

Jody Coulston
King's Elementary School, Shoreline
The environmental work of students, teachers, and other members of the school community in King County will be honored at King County’s Earth Heroes at School ceremony in May.

Students as well as educators and other school employees will be honored for their environmental stewardship at the King County Earth Heroes at School awards ceremony, May 3 at Maplewood Greens in Renton.

Earth Heroes inspire others to create their own projects that conserve resources, protect the environment, and educate others about how simple, everyday actions can contribute to a healthier planet.

Solid Waste Division Director Pat McLaughlin will be joined by several King County Councilmembers to present the awards. Jourdan Imani Keith, director of Urban Wilderness Project, will be the keynote speaker.

The honorees represent all areas of King County and include one student, three student environmental clubs, six school staff, five teachers, and two school districts. Examples of the work these Earth Heroes have done include:
  • Creating an initiative to encourage schools to commit to reducing carbon emissions in accordance with the Paris Climate Agreement.
  • Saving energy across a school district by installing energy-efficient lighting.
  • Reusing materials to make art and art-related supplies.
  • Reducing food waste in lunchrooms by establishing share tables for unopened packaged food.
  • Collecting food waste in the lunchroom for composting.

The ceremony is set for 4:30pm at Maplewood Greens, 4050 Maple Valley Hwy., Renton. For more information about the Earth Heroes at School Program, contact Donna Miscolta at donna.miscolta@kingcounty.gov or 206-477-5282.

2018 EARTH HEROES AT SCHOOL

Among those being honored is:

Jody Coulston, King’s Elementary School, Shoreline

Local artist and K-6 art teacher Jody Coulston reuses paper and plastic materials, such as coffee filters, scrap paper, and plastic bottles, for student art projects. She uses old plastic containers for paintbrush washing and used wood pallets to make assignment boxes. She also uses a type of clay that requires only one hour in the kiln rather than overnight, which conserves significant amounts of energy.

Others being honored:
  • Veronica Knight, Lake Washington Environmental and Adventure School, Kirkland
  • Student Green Team, Tesla STEM High School, Redmond
  • Jonathan Stine and Renton School District, Renton
  • Mary Ward, Tiffany Park Elementary School, Renton
  • Steve Wojciechowski and the Star Lake Elementary Green Team, Kent
  • Paul Bowler and Stephanie Lecovin, Peter Kirk Elementary School, Kirkland
  • Carol Barker and Auburn School District Child Nutrition Services, Auburn
  • Laura Sanders, Westwood Elementary School, Enumclaw
  • Shoshanna Cohen, White Center Heights Elementary School, White Center
  • Carol Mendoza, St. Bernadette Parish School, Burien
  • Thomas Ho, Marci Klinkenberg, and the student Green Team, Lake Youngs Elementary School, Kent
  • Jane Watkins, Maywood Middle School, Renton
  • Andrea Wolfe, Apollo Elementary School, Renton
  • Kelsey Webb, Enumclaw High School, Enumclaw



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All Shoreline School District retirees invited to an appreciation reception

Monday, March 5, 2018

Calling all Shoreline School District retirees!

You are invited to attend a special Shoreline Schools Retiree Appreciation Reception on Friday, March 23 from 10-11am at the Shoreline Center Boardroom, 18560 1st Ave NE.

Join us for cookies, coffee and a Shoreline Schools update from Superintendent Rebecca Miner as part of Washington School Retirees Appreciation Week, which is March 19-25, 2018.

No need to RSVP, but if you have questions, contact Curtis Campbell at 206-393-4412.



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Sno-King Schools Retirees award educational employees grants in Shoreline

Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Sno-King School Retirees (SKSR) represents retired and currently employed education employees in Shoreline, Edmonds, and Northshore school districts.

Each year the group awards grants to teachers in all three districts.

This year the following Shoreline teachers received a total of $4,803:

  • Briarcrest Elementary—Sadrina Dorn, Monica Holdridge, Carrie Wandler; 
  • Brookside Elementary—Erin Collins, Carrie Misener, Mary Telstad;
  • Echo Lake Elementary—Angela Burke, Karen Nicholson, Kathryn Pihl, Marcia Sanders, Tani Stenfjord;
  • Lake Forest Park Elementary—Kimberly Clasen, Riley Kreutzer, Tami Thompson;
  • Meridian Park Elementary—Jenny Hillger,
  • Parkwood Elementary—Hetta Fish, Renee Iverson;
  • Ridgecrest Elementary—Joana Freeman, Sheryl Lundahl, Mary Rae;
  • Syre Elementary—Heidi Alexander, Joshua Frank, Lori Hashimoto, Jennifer Hodgen, Debbie Hubbell, Taylor Lilley, Stephanie Martin, Maggie Rock, Callie Tobiason;
  • Shorecrest High School—Veronica Cook.

Since 1997 SKSR has presented grants exceeding $79,000.

--James Siscel, Co-President, SKSR



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15 Shoreline teachers earn National Board Certification

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Fifteen Shoreline teachers recently earned the prestigious National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification, commonly referred to as "National Board Certification." 

Jenny Breed – Shorecrest
Hannah Crowder – Shorewood
Kristianna Johnsen – Shorewood
Barbara Keeley - Meridian Park
Rhonda Okazaki - Lake Forest Park
Kimberly Olsen – Shorecrest
Michael Rhyne – Syre
Wayne Smolinsky – Einstein
Jeb Thomas- Brookside
Rachel Trudelle – Briarcrest
Linda Vassallo – Syre
Linnea Wheaton – Einstein
Trent Wieburg – Shorewood
Stacey Zachau – Shorecrest
Jennifer Zadow - Shoreline Center - Student Services 


This brings the total number of National Board Certified Teachers in Shoreline Public Schools to 92.

National Board Certification is a methodical, thought-provoking process for teachers to increase their understanding of the art of teaching while demonstrating the skills and characteristics of excellence in education.

The lengthy application process is an extensive series of performance-based assessments that includes teaching portfolios, student work samples, videos and thorough analyses of the candidates’ classroom teaching and student learning. Teachers also complete a series of written exercises that probe the depth of their subject-matter knowledge, as well as their understanding of how to teach those subjects to their students. The entire process can take between 200-400 hours.

“We are incredibly proud of all of our teachers and certificated staff who have earned their National Board Certification,” said Superintendent Rebecca Miner. 
“I hope our entire school community will join me in congratulating and recognizing these individuals for their efforts, perseverance and success in obtaining this prestigious certificate.”



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Shorecrest and Kellogg music teacher named to WMEA Hall of Fame

Monday, December 4, 2017

Shorecrest and Kellogg orchestra teacher Mark Adamo has been announced as one of 10 music educators in the State who will be inducted into the Washington Music Educators Association’s (WMEA) Hall of Fame.

Adamo and other honorees will be inducted into the WMEA Hall of Fame at an awards banquet on February 15 preceding the group’s annual conference in Yakima.

“This is a well-deserved recognition for a remarkable music educator,” said Superintendent Rebecca Miner. 
“Mark’s passion and commitment to his students and fellow teachers is evident in his students’ amazing musical performances and all of the hard work that leads up to them.”

Humbled by the honor, Adamo was quick to praise his fellow teachers and staff.

“While it’s certainly an honor to be included amongst those who have been selected before, to be honest, I feel like I’m really just doing my job. Shoreline teachers come to work every day and give 110 percent,” said Adamo. 
“If I’m personally recognized, it’s only because I'm on a team of employees who do amazing work every single day. The successes of our students are due to the combined efforts of every faculty, staff member, administrator and support personnel in the district.”


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Meridian Park teacher wins Patsy Collins award

Saturday, December 2, 2017

Denise Schuyler Peters
Meridian Park 4th grade hi-cap teacher
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools
Meridian Park 4th-grade highly capable teacher Denise Peters was presented with the Patsy Collins Award for Excellence in Education, Environment, and Community by IslandWood and the Seattle Foundation at their annual Waking the World Benefit Breakfast on November 15.

She was one of only three teachers in the region to receive the prestigious honor, which also comes with a $10,000 classroom grant for each of the recipients.

Tony Mestres, President and CEO of Seattle Foundation, presented Peters with the prestigious award and highlighted her work to student success and environmental awareness.

“As a 4th-grade teacher, Ms. Peters strives to create a classroom that fosters in her students a genuine curiosity about the world,” said Mestres. 
"Through self-directed, project-based learning she invites her students to explore ethical issues and to be citizen scientists. She takes her students into the field to study the complexities of wetland habitats and the impact of human actions on the environment.”
Denise Peters accepts the Patsy Collins award
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools


Meridian Park Elementary Principal David Tadlock echoed the high praise for Peters.

“She epitomizes the qualities of a public educator who embraces the whole child and provides hands-on, project-based learning experiences,” said Tadlock. 
“Meridian Park and Shoreline are lucky to have Denise and other educators who care about learning experiences that give students opportunities to consider their place in the world.”

Appreciative and humbled by the honor, Peters focused the award’s significance on the impact her work has on student success.

“I think that the Patsy Collins Award is an acknowledgment for the learning experiences I strive to create for students— engaging, cross-disciplinary, project-based, and tied to the community/ real-world,” said Peters.

Patsy Collins was a philanthropist and civic leader who believed in stewarding the environment and our natural resources for generations to come. In her honor, an anonymous Seattle Foundation philanthropist endowed an award to recognize teachers who inspire citizenship and environmental stewardship. IslandWood, a nonprofit outdoor learning center on Bainbridge Island, received a substantial gift from Patsy Collins during its founding.



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Lane Loland named Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Friday, December 1, 2017

Lane Loland (center) is presented with the Hero in the Classroom Award
 by representatives from the Seahawks and Symetra.

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Shorecrest High School teacher Lane Loland as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Dec. 1, 2017 during a surprise presentation during an all-school assembly. Loland is an athletic coordinator and social studies teacher at Shorecrest

“Simply put, Lane Loland is a Shorecrest legend — he is our ‘Mr. Holland.’ A 30-year veteran of teaching, he has taught every range of course and student. He has also coached and served as our athletic director,” said Lisa Gonzalez, principal at Shorecrest High School. 
“Mr. Loland expects the best from his students and sets high standards. Whether in the classroom or on the athletic field, he helps every student be their best, and he does so with tremendous care, poise and dignity.”

Gonzalez and several teaching colleagues nominated Loland for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Before becoming a teacher, Mr. Loland was an attorney. He made a conscious choice to switch careers and teach, serving our young people and bettering the community in the process. Students want to do well by him and the staff trust and respect him completely,” said Gonzalez. 
“It is very difficult to summarize all that Lane Loland has contributed to Shorecrest, from AP scores (his kids rock the AP U.S. History exam) to ensuring that our sports programs are valued, supported and centered on the right things. 
"He is truly our ethical center—and he is retiring at the end of this academic year. Please help us honor him and all that he has done for the Shorecrest community.”

Loland is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area that will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2017 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $2,000 donation for classroom books and supplies.

In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Loland will be recognized at the Sunday, December 3rd game when the Seahawks take on the Philadelphia Eagles.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom available here



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Hillery Clark to be honored by Wonderland Development Center

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Hillery Clark
Spirit of Wonderland Community Award
Shoreline Public Schools Director of Early Learning Hillery Clark will be recognized by Wonderland Development Center at their Night of Wonderland Gala on September 23, 2017 at the Lynnwood Convention Center.

Clark will be presented with the Spirit of Wonderland Community Award for her work supporting and advocating for special needs students and youth in our region. Wonderland Development Center serves children from birth to three years old that have special needs.

“The Spirit of Wonderland is awarded to partners and members of the general community for embodying the spirit of generosity and commitment to Wonderland and its mission to empower developmentally delayed children and their families to reach their highest potential where they live, learn, and play,” said Wonderland Executive Director Mary Kirchoff.

Purchase tickets here

Saying she was humbled by the honor, Clark expressed her deep appreciation for the work Wonderland does and their partnership with Shoreline Public Schools. 

“Our school district’s strong partnership with Wonderland helps our students and families in many ways,” said Clark. “The incredible staff and programs offered by Wonderland do so much to help the students they serve learn the skills and knowledge they need to be ready for preschool.”



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Evergreen teacher awarded science and engineering prize

Friday, May 26, 2017

From left: Dr. Leslie Cohen of SAMPE, Evergreen School Upper Division math and science teacher Shayé Whitmer, Head of School Ronnie Codrington-Cazeau, Upper Division Head Halsey Bell)



Shayé Whitmer, Upper Division math and science teacher at The Evergreen School, has won the William Dahlgren Award, recognizing outstanding K-12 teachers for inspiring students in math, science and engineering fields.

The award, given by SAMPE (the Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering), includes a prize of $500, and particularly targets teachers who encourage general entrepreneurship and excel according to the following criteria:
  • Excellence: Motivating students to achieve their best.
  • Integrity: Consistently thinking, sometimes doing more than what is required.
  • Respect: Treating each student as valuable and full of potential.
  • Innovation: Inspiring students to explore and create on their own from what is taught. 

In presenting the award, SAMPE Foundation President Dr. Leslie Cohen, Evergreen parent Bob LaFramboise — who nominated Shayé — and Head of School Ronnie Codrington-Cazeau, along with a group of administrators and teachers, surprised Shayé in the midst of a 6th grade science class, delighting his students.



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Alpha Delta Kappa awards mini-grant to Shoreline resident

Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Seattle Schools have no money for durable goods
Each year Alpha Delta Kappa of Washington awards mini-grants to teachers for projects that promote educational excellence.

Dorothy (Tiia) Jones, a Shoreline resident who teaches kindergarten in Seattle at Bailey Gatzert School, received a $600 mini-grant for listening centers in her Kindergarten classroom.

Bailey Gatzert loops teachers for two years, so Tiia will also teach the students in first grade. 

Currently, Seattle Public Schools have no money for durable goods in their budget.

Tiia often spends her own money; but, she says, “It’s hard to keep doing that over and over.”

Tiia said, “The process {of applying for the grant} was not difficult, and I would do it again because there are so many things needed for the children that can’t be provided with what we are given.” Tiia is member of the local Alpha Delta Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa.

Alpha Delta Kappa is an international honorary organization of women educators dedicated to educational excellence, altruism and world understanding. This grant achieves two of Alpha Delta Kappa's main goals: recognizing outstanding women educators and promoting high standards of education. The Alpha Delta chapter was established in Shoreline in 1963.

--Mary Jo Heller



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Shoreline District retirees invited to reception

Saturday, March 4, 2017

Calling all Shoreline School District retirees! You are invited to attend a special Shoreline Schools Retiree Appreciation Reception on Tuesday, March 14, 2017 from 10-11am at the Shoreline Center Boardroom, 18560 1st Ave NE.

Join us for cookies, coffee and a State of the Schools update from Superintendent Rebecca Miner as part of Washington School Retirees Appreciation Week, which is March 13-19, 2017.

No need to RSVP, but if you have questions, contact Curtis Campbell at 206-393-4412.




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Einstein principal named Regional Middle Level Principal of the Year for Kingco North Region

Friday, January 13, 2017


Nyla Fritz named Regional Middle Level Principal of the Year
for Kingco North Region.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

The Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) has selected Einstein Middle School Principal Nyla Fritz as the Regional Middle Level Principal of the Year for the Kingco North Region.

The award recognizes outstanding middle school principals who provide the highest teaching and learning experiences for students and staff, as well as demonstrating exceptional contributions to their profession.

While it’s an individual award, Fritz was quick to credit her students, staff and families for the recognition.

 “It takes a hard working and devoted team coming together for a common purpose to make Einstein the fantastic school it is,” said Fritz. “We celebrate the things we do really well, but we’re not afraid to hold a mirror up to the areas we still need to improve and grow to ensure that all students reach their full potential.”

Superintendent Rebecca Miner said,

“We couldn’t be prouder of Principal Fritz and Einstein Middle School. They serve as shining examples of what we know to be true here in Shoreline Schools; we have amazing schools because of the people who work in them to provide each and every student with the best education possible.”

Fritz and other regional winners now advance for consideration as Washington State Principal of the Year. The Kingco North region of the AWSP includes the Shoreline, Northshore and Lake Washington School Districts.



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Washington remains leader for teachers with National Board Certification

Friday, December 16, 2016


Washington has 87 newly certified National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT) this year. An additional 271 teachers renewed their certificate. Washington ranks fourth nationwide in the total number of NBCTs (8,701).*
“I’m extremely proud of our role as a leader in the National Board program,” said Randy Dorn, superintendent of public instruction. “By continuing to support teachers through this rigorous certification process, we’re saying, ‘Teaching matters, and it’s a profession worth investing in.’”

This is the last year teachers can certify under the old certification process. Across the country, fewer teachers were certified as a result. December 2017 is the earliest candidates can certify under the new certification process. Certification under the new process can take up to 5 years. Washington currently has nearly 4,000 teachers in the pipeline, which represents 19 percent of all candidates and the highest in the country.

Washington by the numbers
  • Number of new NBCTs in 2016: 87 
  • Number of renewed certificates in 2016: 271 
  • Total number of NBCTs: 8,701 (national rank: 4th) 
  • Fifteen percent of all Washington’s teachers are NBCTs 
The state’s bonus and conditional loan programs have been critical to the National Board program’s success and a rapid increase in the number of NBCTs in Washington. Candidates also receive significant professional support throughout the process.

Washington began incentivizing National Board Certification in 1999 with a 15 percent pay increase. In 2007, the state Legislature passed a bill that awards a $5,000 bonus to each NBCT. Teachers can receive up to an additional $5,000 bonus if they teach in “challenging” schools, which are defined as having a certain percentage of students qualify for free and reduced-price lunch (50 percent for high schools, 60 percent for middle schools and 70 percent for elementary schools).

The state’s conditional loan program helps candidates pay for the cost of certification. Loans are repaid by teachers with the bonuses they earn after becoming certified. Last year 150 NBCTs repaid $300,000 in conditional loans. This money went back into the revolving fund and has enabled the state to award loans to 1,200 new candidates.

Board certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards under the new process consists of four components: assessment of content knowledge; reflection on student work samples, video and analysis of teaching practice; and documentation of the impact of assessment and collaboration on student learning. The components are assessed by a national panel of peers.



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Jobs: Brightmont Academy at Northgate holding open interviews for teachers Friday

Saturday, August 6, 2016

Brightmont Academy at Northgate has openings for teachers in all subjects. They are hiring part-time teachers with flexible weekday schedules.

Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school for grades 6-12. They provide customized one-on-one instruction "to help as many students as possible reach their full academic potential and prepare for college and career".

They will be holding open interviews on Friday, August 12 from 9am to 7pm at their Seattle campus 9750 3rd Ave NE, Ste 102, Seattle 98115. Bring your resumé.

See their flyer.

Pre-apply online (optional)



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Shoreline Schools honors eleven retirees

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

District retirees

On Monday, 14 June 2016, at Shorewood High School, the Shoreline School District held retirement ceremonies for eleven district staff members who are retiring at the end of the month.

Members shown in the photo (from left to right)
  • Sandy Renando, Food Service at Meridian Park.
  • Don Engelbach, Transportation.
  • Jean Walker, Transportation.
  • Jerry Pickard, Custodial.
  • Gary Eneburg, Nurse at Briarcrest Elementary.
  • Steve Pouley, Paraeducator at Shorewood High School.
  • Judy Schaad, Teacher at Shorewood High School.
  • Tom Hayes, Teacher at Syre Elementary.
  • Kaydee McGillivray, Teacher at Brookside Elementary.
  • Sharon Suver-Jones, District Business Services.
  • Mary Beth Wildey, Teacher at Lake Forest Park Elementary.

The retirement ceremonies started at 5:00pm with a buffet meal followed at 5:30pm with recognition of retirees and their service to education.

Updated 6-14-2016 11:56pm

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UW Bothell lecturer Keya Sen awarded Fulbright grant for public health research in India, China, Bangladesh

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Keya Sen, UW Bothell, receives Fulbright  Award
Photo courtesy UW Bothell
University of Washington Bothell lecturer Keya Sen has received a Fulbright Global Scholar Award to conduct public health research in India, China and Bangladesh.

Sen is a lecturer and scientific adviser in the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Her project is based on research she began in 2014 at UW Bothell on the pathogen campylobacter carried by crows that roost in the campus wetlands.

The bacteria can cause severe gastroenteritis, an inflammation that causes nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. But the crow may not play a significant role in spreading the disease. Sen explores this hypothesis at the genetic level.

Sen is a public health microbiologist who previously worked for the federal Environmental Protection Agency and Food and Drug Administration.

The Fulbright Global Scholar Award supports academic visits to up to three countries to pursue a topic of global relevance. Being selected is recognition of academic achievement and an opportunity for the people-to-people diplomacy for which the Fulbright program was created.

Sen is the seventh Fulbright U.S. Scholar grant recipient from UW Bothell. The grants are for faculty, staff and professionals. (A Fulbright U.S. Student grant was previously announced this spring for Brad Lakey to teach English in Peru. He was the fourth UW Bothell recipient of the Fulbright for graduating students and recent grads.)



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