Teacher of the Month

April 2012 — Leigh Ann Courtney

"Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love." Mother Teresa

This individual arrives to work every day with a smile on her face. She greets parents and children with excitement to begin the day. She provides the children in her care a gentle reassurance that helps them get through a day without mommy and daddy. Providing children with a friendly greeting seems like a simple task but often is missed. I am this teacher because her friendly greetings provide the children predictability and stability. As we all know this ensures a positive experience and connection with our program. She strives to bring her best in every environment. I appreciate all her dedication to our school and the smile she brings to work every day. Thank you, Leigh Ann Courtney, for a job well done.

March 2012 — Kim Ickler

This Teacher of the Month demonstrates a positive attitude at all times. She has stepped up to help out in any way she is able to contribute. She puts her best foot forward and strives to bring her best in everyday to her classroom. The children in her care are thriving under her guidance and she has been a strong presence and leader in her classroom. Her positive attitude is an excellent example for her fellow teaching "team" and the children. She provide the children with engaging intentional activities that captivate their interests while addressing the Early Learning Standards. It is with great pleasure to name Kim Ickler as Teacher of the Month. Congrats Ms. Kim for a job well done!!!

February 2012 — Kim Ickler

This Teacher of the Month demonstrates a positive attitude at all times. She has stepped up to help out in any way she is able to contribute. She puts her best foot forward and strives to bring her best in everyday to her classroom. The children in her care are thriving under her guidance and she has been a strong presence and leader in her classroom. Her positive attitude is an excellent example for her fellow teaching "team" and the children. She provide the children with engaging intentional activities that captivate their interests while addressing the Early Learning Standards. It is with great pleasure to name Kim Ickler as Teacher of the Month. Congrats Ms. Kim for a job well done!!!

January 2012 — Christa Miller

The Teacher of the Month has showed the true essence of teamwork. I have been WOWED with her attitude and work performance! She supports the team in the classroom and always asks what she can do to help and supportthe TEAM. The children love and adore her. Her interactions with the children are positive!! I am amazed on how much she has grown in the past year. I appreciate her uplifting attitude and smile while I walk in her classroom. She strives to help with the observations and lesson plans. A big thank-you goes out to CHRISTA MILLER!!

This poem describes the teacher of the year. A true professional strives to be her best on a daily basis. As I was reflecting on choosing among many wonderful teachers, I ran across a quote that Winston Churchill said, "Attitude is a little thing that makes a difference. The teacher of the year excels in making a difference. She is willing to go the extra mile and strives to the best of her ability to make that little difference every day. To lead is to serve and this is not an easy task. She is a strong support through the good times and the trying times. Never asking what people can do for her rather she asks what can I do for you? Her attitude shows this by always asking what she can do for the children, parents and staff of the Children's Garden. It is with great pleasure that I announce Ilene Foxx as TEACHER OF THE YEAR 2011.

November 2011 — Lizzie Hill

"The work of the individual still remains the spark that moves mankind ahead even more than teamwork." Igor Sikorsky

This individual strives to be a team player. She comes in everyday and asks what she can do for the children, families, and staff in our program. This behavior demonstrates an individual that cares about the mission of our school. To build positive relationships it is imperative that individuals take this attitude and bring it to all environments in their lives. She is excelling in all areas of Early Childhood Education and has committed to the CDA program to sharpen her knowledge in this profession. I appreciate all her hard work in making our school wonderful to all who come through the doors. The teacher of the month is Lizzie Hill. I am so grateful for your positive attitude. You are a wonderful role model for others. Congrats to a job well done.

October 2011 — Ilene Foxx

"Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expressions of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile." Mother Teresa

The quote above is the attitude that is exhibited by the Teacher of the Month. She interacts with children, parents, and staff in a positive manner. She is willing to go the extra mile to make the difference and she strives to bring her best every day. A kind word and smile goes a long way to a parent that is tired or a child that is sad during the day. This is demonstrated by this teacher's actions in thoughts and deed.

The Teacher of the Month strives to be the best she can be in all situations. Sometimes being a leader is a difficult task. This individual demonstrates professional behavior even when it is a challenge. I admire her positive attitude and encouragement with the staff and families. Strong relationships are the foundation to successful experiences. Let us learn from Ilene's excellent example and strive to be the best we can be.

September 2011 — Hudson Bethard

"Put your heart, mind, intellect and soul even to your smallest acts. This is the secret of success." Swami Sivananda

This particular individual has impressed me by his dedication over the last couple of months. As I reflect over the past year, this individual has grown in all areas. He strives to do his best day to day. The children look forward to seeing him everyday as he delivers lunch. I have witnessed his interactions with the children in his care and he is genuine and interested in their feelings as well as their successes. The Center appreciates his effort everyday to make our school a fun and loving environment for children. Thank you Hudson for all your hard work. You are an awesome addition to our staff.

August 2011 — Stephanie Pond

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Helen Keller

This staff member shows an extreme desire to get the job done. She is an excellent team player. When I visit her classroom, she is always trying her best to get little jobs finished around the room. If an extra hand is needed anywhere in the building she makes every attempt to make it a priority to go the extra mile to pitch in and help where needed. She has a wonderful sense of humor and she has a way of making her fellow workers chuckle and giggle over silly things that the babies do or just during casual conversation when passing in the hallway. She has strived on a professional level both in the classroom and outside of the classroom. I am proud of her accomplishments. The teacher of the month is Stephanie Pond. Thank you Steph for all your dedication and support. We appreciate all your hard work.

July 2011 — All Staff Members

"The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones." Anonymous

Our Staff Team receives the Employees of the Month award. Every team member stepped up to the plate during our relocation period. Team members helped in moving materials to and from Bible Baptist. The team leaders kept on with their plans while in unfamiliiar classrooms. From the infants to the oldest school-agers, the team members kept a sense of consistency through out the entire relocation period. We appreciate all the hard work every team member gave to make the transitions smoother for everyone. The team receives a heartfelt Thank You for their dedication during this difficult situation.

June 2011 — Lisa Frank

"Dare to reach out your hand into the darkness, to pull another hand into the light." Norman B. Rice

This individual strives to serve the staff and families of The Children's Garden. She brings a positive light to our program. I have witnessed the help she gives the staff and families every day. It does not matter if her desk is piled high with work she needs to complete. She lends a hand to anyone that needs support whether it's help with getting supplies or making memos. She is dedicated to our school and strives to bring the best to our program. I want her to know that she is appreciated for her hard work. This month's Employee of the Month award goes to Lisa Frank.

May 2011 — Jo Sierra

"We can do no great things, only small things with great love." Mother Teresa

This quote reminds me of how the teacher of the month approaches her job at The Children's Garden. She makes a difference everyday by making sure the little "things" get finished on a daily basis. She brings a wonderful energy to the classroom. She is always willing to go the extra mile. She strives to bring her best every day to the children in her care. Her friendly smile makes a difference by providing the children with a secure and loving environment. This staff member is a team player always helping all staff in need of assistance. It is my great pleasure to name Jo Sierra as Teacher of The Month. Her dedication and support are appreciated. Way to go Miss Jo!!!

April 2011 — Barbara Foxx

"Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something." Author unknown

The teacher of the month exhibits an "I can" attitude!! She puts forth her best effort in thinking about this amazing profession. She is a proactive staff member who takes action in obtaining a healthy and safe environment for the children. Her personal endeavors are constantly being developed. She wants to become better and this is shown everyday with her classroom management and supporting staff in her Pre-K I classroom. She helps mold the staff in their own personal development. She is organized and dedicated to The Children's Garden. Mrs. Barbara Foxx is a strong support to the families and the staff. It is my honor to present her the award of Teacher of the Month for April 2011.

March 2011 — Lauren Blumenstine

Communication is a vital element in our daily events. It is imperative that we provide families with a positive connection with their child’s learning environment. This month I was focused on giving this award to the teacher that demonstrates a positive, refreshing outlook for the families of the children in her care. Miss Lauren shows every family the attention that they need to establish a firm foundation. She never fails to achieve the expectations set for her as a professional. I thank Miss Lauren for her dedication to our school. I value her as a strong addition to our staff.

February 2011 — Devra Lowe

Devra Lowe is February's Teacher of the Month. Devra has been with the Center for six months. During her employment here she has shown dedication and the eagerness to learn about this profession. She is a valued staff member in the Infant Room. This room works as a team to provide the infants with the best care possible. Devra strives to conduct herself in a professional manner at all times. She is a model for the younger staff and she strives to do her best in all aspects of this jobs. Congratulations Devra for your hard work! It does not go unnoticed. Keep up the great job!

January 2011 — Pamela Ketner

This teacher strives for the best in her classroom. She looks at her environment as an important tool in her students' day. Professional development is an essential element in early childhood education. This teacher is working hard to become knowledgeable in her profession. I have seen wonderful opportunities to explore in their classroom environment. One particular activity that caught my attention was a project focused on cardboard boxes. The children investigated by climbing in and out of boxes and used different mediums to decorate the boxes. This activity addresses developmentally appropriate practice by allowing the children to engage their senses and interact with their peers. This teacher is always willing to learn and grow. The Teacher of the Month is Pamela Ketner. Thank you Pammie for all your dedication and your willingness to learn new things and demonstrate a positive attitude!!!

November 2010 — Doris Clark

"Life, love, and laughter — what priceless gifts to give our children." Phyllis Dryden

When I read the quote above, I think about the particular teacher that gives her heart everyday to the children in her care. She has a natural ability to provide them with an environment that is age appropriate for their stage and at the same time gives them the individual attention that each of them needs to thrive in a toddler classroom. When I walk in her room I feel warmth that is inviting to all who enter. The colorful displays of the children's artwork are presented in an appealing way her loving quality is visible on the walls and her interaction with the children. I feel that this teacher has met the challenge of the change in the last year with apprehension not knowing what she already brings to this school. It is my great pleasure to name Ms. Doris Clark as Teacher of the Month. Thank you Ms. Doris for meeting the challenge of change and providing the children with love and acceptance on a daily basis. You are an example for fellow staff on your endurance and your desire to improve the learning environment for the children in your care.

October 2010 — Crissy Switzer

When I reflect with my decision on naming the Employee of the Month this quote comes to mind: "I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." — Mother Teresa. This professional has shown her dedication and love for the children, families, and staff throughout her many years of service. A true servant is the ability to let God's light shine through your presence. She shows her love for people by being a positive example for the children and the staff by her guidance and dedication to the school. Her desire to make all people feel welcomed and valued is not only appreciated but with her work she is making a mark on all people no matter where they come from in their lives and making a difference that will never be erased. Words cannot express the appreciation for all her work and service she has given. The Children's Garden is truly blessed to have her on staff. The Employee of the Month is Crissy Switzer. Congratulations Miss Crissy. This award is long overdue. Thank you for believing in me and The Children's Garden.

September 2010 — Patricia Goodhart

This teacher is a person who strives to be the very best. She is professional at all times. She provides the children in her care with a healthy balance of love and guidance. Professional growth is essential in this profession. She is always eager to learn new methods of teaching and she encourages her fellow staff members to do the same. The foundation that she provides for the children in her care is a model that should be used in all of our classrooms. She is committed to promoting children's self-awareness, competence, self-worth, resiliency, and physical well-being. The teacher of the month goes to Patricia Goodhart for all above stated. Words cannot express the respect we have for her both on a personal and professional level. The Children's Garden appreciates all her years of dedication to The Children's Garden.

August 2010 — Ms. Alisa Clark

The teacher of the month is Alisa Clark. Alisa is presented this honor for her support and dedication to her fellow staff of The Children's Garden. She is consistently lending a helping hand or an encouraging word to her co-workers. Alisa has helped many of her peers complete their Professional Development Records and has aided in classroom environments and curriculum. She is a model for all new employees and is a teacher that strives to be the best in her classroom and her profession. Her actions and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Genuine "Thanks and Appreciation" is given to Ms. Alisa in her efforts to strive to be the best for the children and families that attend The Children's Garden.

July 2010 — Susan Crown

Susan is our Teacher of the Month of July because of her years of dedication to The Children's Garden. Susan started her journey as a classroom and office volunteer at the age of fourteen! The day she turned eighteen we were so excited because she became an official "ratio" staff person! Susan is willing to help in any classroom...without hesitation. Her flexibility and constant smile on her face is a huge asset to our already great team of teachers. Thank you Susan for all of your hard work and dedication to The Children's Garden.

June 2010 — Erin Snyder

Erin Snyder was chosen for Teacher of the Month because of her years of dedication to Infant and Toddler Programs. Erin recently took over leadership of the Young Toddler Room. The classroom environment is a very important factor in a Toddler environment. Erin has totally revamped the Yound Toddler room. She has added various interest centers and has fostered independence for the children by providing them with opportunities to explore their classroom. Erin is experienced beyond her years. We appreciate her dedication to The Children's Garden and value her expertise in her classroom.

May 2010 — Ilene Foxx

Ilene was chosen for her dedication to The Children's Garden. Her eagerness to learn more about early childhood education is an example of how much Ilene contributes to our program. She is willing to help out in any way she can to help improve the overall program and environment for the children and families. She strives to excel not only during her scheduled time but is willing to stay extra to help in and "daycare" crisis that might arise may it be the computer in the office or running an errand in the hail storm for a celebration for another program other than her own. This is an important element in becoming a true professional in that daycare world. Hats go off for her efforts to help our program advance. Ms. Ilene is the lead teacher in the Infant Room.