Windham School District would like to express congratulations and appreciation to the outstanding educators who participated in our recognition and awards process for 2008-2009. It is my pleasure to recognize participants at three levels of this process: Regional Semi-Finalists, Regional Finalists, and Winner. Click here to view a poster of this year's recognized outstanding educators.
1. After campus nominees were honored, the following Regional Semi-Finalists were selected by Regional Committees:
Opal Rabalais, Lychner SJ; John Kamara, Henley SJ; Florence McCamy, Carol Young Medical Facility;
Ellen Nimmo, Eastham Unit; Theresa Larsen, Ferguson Unit; Rosie Shepherd, Huntsville Unit
Clemente Rocha, Dominguez SJ; Veronica Moron, McConnell Unit; Ann Warwas, Stevenson Unit
Terry Ferguson, Havins Unit; James Farquhar, Wallace Unit; Kirby Huffman, Smith Unit
2. From the Semi-Finalists, four Regional Finalists were observed and interviewed this summer by the WSD Outstanding Educator Committee.
3.
Regional Finalists |
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Terry Ferguson, |
Rosie Shepherd |
Opal Rabalais, |
Clemente Rocha |
Each finalist successfully completed the challenging requirements of the selection process at both the regional and state level, which included classroom observations and individual interviews. This process highlighted for the judges why these four are truly some of the best correctional educators in Texas. Each consistently demonstrated their expertise and skill as an instructor, as well as a fierce commitment to this profession.
4. With great pleasure, we announce the WSD Outstanding Educator for 2008-2009:
This accomplished educator embodies the talent, professionalism and dedication
that make WSD teachers the pacesetters for correctional education. Mr. Rocha
is a Career and Technical Education instructor, teaching classes in computer-aided
drafting at the Dominguez State Jail in San Antonio. It is a privilege to name
him our outstanding educator.
Congratulations also to all WSD teachers who were nominated by their peers for campus Outstanding Educator, and thank you again to everyone who so willingly participated in this effort to recognize the excellence in teaching brought each day to WSD students. The success of our students depends on having strong, capable educators. We are very proud of each nominee. You are the foundation of our success, and it is exciting to begin a new school year with you.
Mr. Rocha, Ms. Shepherd, Mr. Ferguson, Ms. Rabalais and their principals will be honored at the October meeting of the WSD Board of Trustees in Austin. WSD will be preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary at this time, and it will be my privilege to introduce these exceptional educators as representatives of Windham’s outstanding teachers. Again, congratulations!