Sewell Lexusus of Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Humanities 

Karen Galley • Success High School, Grades 9-12

 

Presented by Kurt Haman

 

A former Fulbright Teacher Exchange Scholar, Karen Galley teaches social studies to at-risk students at Success High School’s evening program for students seeking a second chance to earn a high school diploma. Her students may come from diverse, difficult, often impoverished, backgrounds, but Mrs. Galley believes social studies can inspire self-confidence and passion for learning. During a theater field trip to Tarrant County College, she asked a Success graduate to lead a campus tour so students could visualize themselves there. Colleagues describe her as “cheerleader,” whether she mentors, tutors or orchestrates a schoolwide TAKS “Throw-Down” where teachers submit curriculum questions and students, popular culture questions, in a Jeopardy-like challenge. A Team Leader, she helps examine data to evaluate what works or needs to change. Through commitment and hard work, students achieved a 100 percent pass rate in social studies in April. She says, “I have never felt more pride (or needed more tissues!) than at Success High School graduation.” Mrs. Galley received a bachelor of arts in history and German from The College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, and a master of arts in German studies and education certification from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI. During her junior year, she studied at a university in Muenster, Germany. Two of her eight years as a teacher have been with the Fort Worth ISD.

Chase Bank Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary English

Elizabeth Kaye Roberts • W. P. McLean Middle School, Grades 7-8

 

Presented by Danny Smith

Elizabeth Roberts compares her students to characters in a great novel, each with a unique story to tell. When a girl came to school unable to get tangles out of her hair because her mother wasn’t there anymore, Mrs. Roberts brushed her hair and listened. A shy student, afraid of disappointing his parents, needed encouragement; she became a cheerleader. “Teachers have to be aware of who students are as people,” she insists. Her classes include special education, honors, and pre-Advanced Placement students; she also works with Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), a college prep program for at-risk students. Through McLean’s Adopt-A-School program, she coordinated school-business partnerships boosting school attendance and bringing McLean a state-of-the-art learning lab. She has developed incentive programs and supported volunteerism with Meals on Wheels, Toys for Tots and more. According to parents, Mrs. Roberts teaches students “to be compassionate, contributing members of the world around them.” Mrs. Roberts earned a bachelor of arts in both English literature and speech communication from Texas A&M University and a master of arts in Christian education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She has taught in the Fort Worth ISD for eight years.

Freese and Nichols, Inc. Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Math

Mike Mihalik • Arlington Heights High School, Grades 9-12

 

Presented by Bob Pence

Mike Mihalik once taught honors math. Today he chooses to teach Algebra I to freshmen, some struggling in difficult circumstances. “I show my students how good life can be when you do something you love and learn to do it well,” he says. “I do inspiration and education.” Students who learn and even enjoy algebra may also “persevere and enjoy the daily challenges we all face as humans.” Mr. Mihalik co-teaches two special education inclusion classes, sponsors the Chess Club, supports the school’s AVID program and teaches summer PSAT courses. His successful $26,000 grant request resulted in an after-school learning lab to support graduation goals. He leads a ninth-grade academic team of English, social studies and science teachers who share the same students, planning ways to help them and involve parents. During informal report card parties each six weeks, parents become at ease in a school setting, learning about credits, graduation and more. Colleagues say he is a “true mathematician with an incredible work ethic,” “eager to grow,” and “exuberant”! Mr. Mihalik earned bachelor of arts and bachelor of science degrees in philosophy and mathematics, respectively, from Whitworth University, Spokane, WA. He also attended Minot State University, Minot, ND, while still enrolled in high school. He has taught with the Fort Worth ISD for five years.

Crescent Real Estate Chair for Teaching Excellence in Business and Technology

Robyn M. Rogers • North Side High School, Grades 9-12

Presented by Suzanne Stevens

Robyn Rogers runs her classroom as though it were a marketing business, and she, the CEO. Her students are no strangers to technology. But while they may be technology-savvy, they are not technologically responsible, she says, and they believe they understand high-tech gadgets by using short-cuts rather than working to understand the entire process. Dedicated to teaching students how to use and respect technology, she accesses Internet blogs, e-newsletters and on-line resources to keep instruction relevant. She introduces students to software and technology that help develop skills for life and the workplace and has developed new classes in Sports and Entertainment Marketing, Advertising, and Marketing Yourself. The school’s Web master, she also serves as district coordinator and national teacher/facilitator for a research initiative that helps teachers integrate math skills into the career and technology curriculum. Although Ms. Rogers has taught at North Side only three years, her principal describes her innovative marketing education program as “the best in the Fort Worth ISD.” Ms. Rogers earned a bachelor of arts in public relations, a master of arts in sports promotions and marketing from Texas Tech University. Her marketing education certification is from the University of North Texas. She has been a teacher for six years, all with the Fort Worth ISD.

Bayard H. Friedman Chair for Teaching Excellence in Performing Arts

Jolene Webster • Paschal High School, Grades 9-12

Presented by Edward P. Bass

“All voices welcome.” With that philosophy, Jolene Webster has built Paschal’s choral music program from the ground up. Thriving, award-winning choirs boast 150-plus members who, a colleague notes, “step out of their comfort zones and push themselves to perfection.” Choral music, Ms. Webster believes, develops skills in teamwork, problem-solving, math, anatomy, languages and more. When students step onto a stage with poise and order, they present themselves at their best, developing skills for job interviews and lifelong love of music. Students are dedicated: A contender for a state wrestling championship needed to choose between wrestling and choral competitions the same weekend. He chose choir. Although the choir has won University Interscholastic League and other Sweepstakes trophies, Ms. Webster’s proudest professional achievement remains “the art of teaching and of reaching students, inspiring them to learn and to express themselves through music.” Ms. Webster earned a bachelor’s in education and music from Clear Creek Baptist College, Pineville, KY, a master’s in music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with additional studies at Texas Wesleyan University and Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Columbus, OH. She has taught 20 years, three in the Fort Worth ISD.

RadioShack Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Science

Matthew “Crash” Rose • Arlington Heights High School, Grades 9-12

Presented by Eric Bruner

“I live to teach.” For Matthew “Crash” Rose, teaching is a passion; his style, “electric and engaging.” He is so passionate that his teaching spills from Arlington Heights, to Texas Wesleyan University (adjunct professor), to Saturday tutoring sessions, and to church on Sundays. At Arlington Heights, his Environmental Systems class is designed for students who, for various reasons, have failed the TAKS science test at least once. Yet for more than three years, thanks to his commitment and their hard work, they have led the district in TAKS passing rates for retesters; several earned commended scores. He developed a PowerPoint series on TAKS now distributed districtwide, encouraged all Heights teachers to teach math five minutes daily, and counseled new teachers. He has collaborated with parents and peers and worked with special education and science colleagues to ensure that all students’ needs are met in inclusive classrooms. In 2008-2009, Mr. Rose -- Science Department Chair, head tennis coach and teacher -- was honored as Fort Worth ISD’s Secondary Teacher of the Year. Mr. Rose earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in science and education, respectively, from Texas Wesleyan University where he has enjoyed graduate studies in science through its Teacher Quality Program. He has been a teacher 17 years, 13 in the Fort Worth ISD.

Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Science

Tanyka Wynn • Christene C. Moss Elementary School, Grades Pre K-5

Presented by Eric Branyan

Tanyka Wynn’s goal is to uplift, educate and instill the belief that all things are possible for her fifth-grade students -- a daunting challenge! Many are raised by grandparents or come from single-parent homes where they assume grown-up responsibilities. Despite the odds, they come to school eager to learn. “They are my inspiration,” she says. Mrs. Wynn builds relationships with families through weekly newsletters, take-home bags containing science-related games, and invitations to visit class. As the lead science teacher, she sets up science camps, mentors peers and attends seminars to make instruction more relevant and lively. When teaching about the water cycle, for example, she divided the class into groups: One group wrote about the cycle; another designed a skit; others drew pictures, used PowerPoint and composed a song. Parents say she pushes students to reach their potential. Her principal says she builds relationships that continue sibling-after-sibling. A student says, “Mrs. Wynn’s class is the coolest!” Mrs. Wynn holds an associate degree from Community College of Aurora, CO, and a bachelor of arts in black studies in multicultural education from the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO. She has taught with the Fort Worth ISD for five years.

XTO Energy Inc. Chair for Teaching Excellence in Early Childhood Education

Courtney Sawyer • J.T. Stevens Elementary School, Grades Pre K-5

Presented by Joy Webster

At their homes, Courtney Sawyer’s pre-kindergartners may hear Vietnamese, Arabic, Spanish or even Hindi. Few may have held scissors, gripped a pencil or traced a pattern before their first day of school. Then Ms. Sawyer welcomes each to a bright, cheery classroom where, her principal says, she teaches with unbelievable dedication. Youngsters practice academic skills in Learning Centers and develop social skills by learning to share, clean up and be respectful. Ms. Sawyer’s certification in gifted and talented education allows her to help each student grow and excel. She provides parents take-home literacy bags packed with activities and invites them to music programs, picnics, Field Day and PTA. (Her class annually has 100 percent PTA involvement.) Currently, pre-kindergarten serves children who qualify under strict guidelines (low income, limited English, homelessness, etc.), a situation Ms. Sawyer would like to see changed. “Prekindergarten is the foundation for a better education,” she insists. “Every child deserves the opportunity for a great beginning in school.” Ms. Sawyer earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with early childhood specialization from Stephen F. Austin State University following studies at Tarrant County College. She has taught for 10 years, seven in the Fort Worth ISD.

Perdue, Brackett, Flores, UTT & Burns Chair for Teaching Excellence in Health and Physisical Fitness

Wendy Walling • North Hi Mount Elementary School, Grades Pre K-5

Presented by Jim Whitton

Physical education “rocks” at North Hi Mount where fun-packed activities get students moving! Dances from hip hop to country line dancing, skating safety dos and don’ts, and football drills (passing, snapping and catching) are a few ways Wendy Walling keeps students active. Academics get support, too. Students count while doing jumping jacks and add or multiply as they roll foam dice to decide what activity comes next. A student portfolio based on the district’s fitness test teaches students about goal-setting and promotes parental involvement. For portfolio grades, students interview parents and help plan meals. Parents of a student who failed a push-up test worked with him during the year. When he excelled in the spring, Ms. Walling recalls, his parents were elated, and he was very proud. She has a record of success: A former student whose parents participated in fitness activities was accepted to all military academies. She tutors, supervises Fort Worth After School and, one parent notes, inspires parents and children with her “personality, integrity and knowledge.” Ms. Walling attended Texas Christian University and earned a bachelor of science in physical education from Tarleton State University. For 17 of her 19 years as a teacher, she has been part of the Fort Worth ISD.

Outreach Communications Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Reading

Kathy G. Yale • M.H. Moore Elementary School, Grades Pre K-5

Presented by Trixie Bradley

In Kathy Yale’s friendly, risk-free classroom, children learn according to their strengths and abilities. While some third-graders struggle to read and learn English, others have high ability. To meet their needs, Ms. Yale became certified in bilingual and gifted education. Her classroom invites reading, with a small sofa, a clubhouse area with rug and pillows, and, occasionally, tablecloths and flowers on circular tables. Reading materials abound -- first-rate literature, other genres, multicultural texts, even magazines. On Friday mornings, students enjoy a “READ-IN” with flashlights, pillows and a comfortable place to read. Not only has Ms. Yale served as gifted and talented coordinator, bilingual/ESL lead teacher and mentor, but she has also built informal school-community networks benefiting the school. Her heart is in the classroom where she individualizes instruction for students. As reading becomes their best friend, students see comprehension and reading fluency soar. The result: Ms. Yale’s homeroom had M.H. Moore’s highest scores on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), with 91 percent passing. Ms. Yale earned an associate of arts degree from Tyler Junior College and both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas Woman’s University. She has taught for 25 years, 23 in the Fort Worth ISD.

The Molyneaux Foundation Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education

Lorrie Uriegas Acuña • Burton Hill Elementary School, Pre K-5

Presented by Kay West

Lorrie Acuña’s students cope with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other disabilities. They thirst for knowledge and language, and they joyously offer love, hugs and smiles. At her previous school, Mrs. Acuña taught a class that included both general education and special education pre-kindergartners. She saw both groups benefit from the experience. Students with disabilities learned language and appropriate behavior at a faster pace; others learned compassion. Advocating for inclusiveness, Mrs. Acuña shares teaching strategies with colleagues; provides parents a daily log to help open conversations with language-challenged children; and reaches out to the community. As a result, more than half of her students attend physical education, music and art with general education students. Parents are urged to express goals for their children, and volunteers assist with Special Olympics. According to her principal, Mrs. Acuña has developed rapport with parents and gained respect from peers with “consistency, compassion and determination to see students succeed.” Mrs. Acuña attended Southwest Texas State University (Texas State University), San Marcos, and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Texas Christian University. She has taught 12 years, 11 in the Fort Worth ISD.

J.T. and Zelma Luther Chair for Teaching Excellence in Library Science

Sue Ellen Shaw • North Side High School, Grades 9-12

Presented by Patsy L. Cantrell and Jan L. Johnson

All North Side students, whether gregarious or shy, academically talented or challenged, find a safe, comfortable, stimulating home in the library. Librarian Sue Ellen Shaw “makes you feel you have walked into a room of sunshine,” says the principal. During extended library hours, students use computers they may not have available at home; others study together, and still others read for fun. She promotes reading through contests, book talks, Open Mic programs, Paperback Pizza lunches and a Teen Library Board (the Booners). A large bowl filled with authors’ quotes is popular with students, especially on Valentine’s Day. New teachers and parents enjoy her sessions about helpful Web sites, library databases and teen programs. She is a member of the Texas Library Association and a Fort Worth Public Library committee that plans author visits for students. She relishes her work with new teachers and the community. Shaw says, “I love celebrating with students the power of the written word.” Mrs. Shaw earned a bachelor of science from the University of Texas at Austin and a master of arts from Texas Woman’s University. Initially a classroom teacher, she has served as an Fort Worth ISD librarian for 16 years.

Angela D. Paulos Chair for Teaching Excellence in Visuisuisual Arts

Cheryl Evans-Rogers • Arlington Heights High School, Grades 9-12

Presented by Flora Brewer

If hands-on projects motivate students to stay in school, Cheryl Evans-Rogers’ art classes offer remarkable incentives. Here students of all abilities create something tangible to be proud of. Experienced in several art forms, she is the only Fort Worth ISD art teacher who teaches the lost wax method of making jewelry. She belongs to the Society of North American Goldsmiths and, by invitation, created an entry for the permanent Christmas Collection of the White House. However, Mrs. Evans-Rogers is especially proud of her students’ accomplishments: high-scoring Advanced Placement (AP) portfolios, state medalists in the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) and more. She tutors, keeps parents informed, arranges participation in art shows and invites professional artists to class. According to a colleague, she is dedicated to keeping students in school and, through art, invested in themselves and their community. Mrs. Evans-Rogers holds a bachelor of fine arts and all-level teaching certification from Texas Tech University and also studied at Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts, San Francisco, CA. She has taught in the Fort Worth ISD for 13 years.

Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Math

Elizabeth Myers • Waverly Park Elementary School, Grades Pre K-5

Presented by Eric Branyan

Beginning in fourth grade, Elizabeth Myers dreaded math, convinced she was the worst math student in the room. Not until she reached college did she realize she was talented in, and enjoyed, mathematics. Today she teaches and accommodates the special learning styles of fourth-graders with complex and challenging backgrounds. In a classroom bright with children’s work, she uses many approaches -- hands-on materials, music, cooking, art -- to engage her students. With an electronic Promethean Board linked to her computer, she pulls up interactive Web sites and lessons that all can participate in. She stays in touch with parents through e-mail, sharing information and complimenting their children in ways even the students appreciate. She lets parents know the weekly math objectives and often suggests math activities for families to do together for fun. Twice Ms. Myers has been a presenter for the Conference for the Advancement for Mathematics Teaching; in 2008-2009, peers chose her as Waverly Park’s Teacher of the Year. Ms. Myers earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and elementary education from Stephen F. Austin State University and is working towards a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, where she has chosen mathematics for all of her electives. She has taught in Fort Worth ISD for three years.