Friday, February 13, 2009

Like Mother...Like Daughter...

At Chets Creek we are family - quite literally in some cases. Beyond the real relationships that have been built among colleagues that make this school feel like a family we actually have a number of employees who are related to each other. These dynamic duos and trios provide strong partnerships in service to children. This year two of our cherished family members were recognized by their peers for their contributions to our school community as our "of the Year" representatives.


Earlier in the year Kindergarten teacher Debby Cothern was chosen as our Teacher of the Year. Debby truly has the heart of teacher and delivers her craft with thought and reflection. Her practice is intentional, carried out with conviction in the name of what is right for the children she teaches. In her every action she encompasses the qualities of a teacher who routinely looks inward and challenges herself for her students. Her own learning is at the heart of her outstanding work with children. Along with her co-teacher and sister in law, Michelle Ellis, they maximize every moment with meaningful learning opportunities for the students and teachers they mentor.


Last month Kindergarten Paraprofessional Barbara Ellis was chosen as our Employee of the Year. "Grandma Barbara" was chosen because you will always see her doing whatever is necessary, in order to benefit the school – even if it does not pertain to her normal duties. Her attention to detail and her willingness to help in any way distinguishes her as an outstanding member of our team. Barbara is a wonderful wife, mother of three great children, and grandmother to eight. However, the kindness she shows her own family is not for them alone. She exerts that same love and attention to welcome every child and adult she encounters in our school.

We are so proud of this mother & daughter duo and the fact that they truly represent the entire Chets Creek family and what we are all about - Relationships! Relationships! Relationships!
Risk...Care...Dream...Expect...

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

This entry realy does highlight a very cool (I was going to say happenstance, but there is no way this is just a lucky coincidence) situation. Debbie, Michelle and Barbara are all consumate professionals, and we are lucky to have them at CCE!

I know that there are many other teachers that receive help from their parents and sibs, and that's really cool too. Perhaps my Pop will feel compelled to move to Jax. to help out after this blog reply makes him feel guilty? One can only hope...

Peace

Michelle Ellis & Debby Cothern said...

Your kind words mean so much. We are truly blessed to be a part of the Chets Creek Family.

Michelle Ellis & Debby Cothern said...

I love working with Debby and Barbara. I feel blessed to be a part of this great family. They inspire me every day to become a better teacher and person.

Anonymous said...

Chets Creek is family. I am so thankful that my daughter had Debby as her kindergarten and first grade teacher, and then I had the opportunity to work with Barbara. They are both wonderful people and amazing with children.
Fondly,
Christy