Congratulations to the Berkley Schools Teachers of the Year
During the week of March 18, Berkley Schools administrators surprised District teachers of the year. With flowers, certificates and signs in hand, teachers were surprised while they were teaching. Principals and colleagues joined in on the fun, too. During the surprises, Superintendent Francis asked students to share one word they would use to describe their teachers. Students were eager to share their love for their teachers sharing words like: caring, loving, funny, kind, and smart.
Congratulations to the following Berkley Schools building teachers of the year!
Berkley Building Blocks: Sarah Currie, GSRP 4 Year Old Preschool
On the nomination form, Early Childhood Supervisor Katie Fotiu shared the following about Ms. Sarah: She is an amazing early childhood educator who is dedicated to providing the best educational environment for our highest need students. She greets children and families with excitement and joy, ready to meet each child at their individual level.
Angell: Lauren Wexler, 1st Grade
On the nomination form, a colleague shared this about Ms. Wexler: Her dedication, enthusiasm, organization and knowledge of our profession is truly a gift to our school and our community. She is a leader in our school and our district, serving as Thinc Team Leader, Yearbook Manager, Talent Show Producer and a member for other District committees. And even with all of the hats she wears here at Angell, she is someone who is always willing to sacrifice her time to help her students, parents and colleagues in any way she can.
Burton: Courtney Emery, Kindergarten
On the nomination form, Burton Principal Lauren Fragomeni shared: She is patient when listening to her students, and she helps guide them when trying to understand one of the most challenging concepts in kindergarten: working together. Ms. Emery can be seen helping students unpack their items in the cafeteria to ensure each student has a place to sit, working with a small group of students to help meet their needs, or engaging in conversations with her littles.
Norup Elementary: Kayla Mazur, K-5 Resource Room Teacher
On the nomination form, a parent shared the following about Ms. Mazur: When any teacher tells you stories your child has told to them, you can be sure that your teacher is listening to your child. And really hearing them. It was a delight to hear Ms. Mazur tell us news from our son. Her whole demeanor radiates hope. We are so, so, so thankful for Ms. Mazur.
Pattengill: Sarah Lazorka, K-5 Resource Room Teacher
On the nomination form, Principal Shamika Womble shared the following about Ms. Lazorka: Sarah embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator – compassionate, dedicated, and continuously striving for excellence. Her contributions to our school have been invaluable and she has positively impacted the lives of our students and colleagues. Sarah’s leadership skills, passion for education and unwavering commitment to her students’ success make her an invaluable asset to the Pattengill school community.
In addition to being the Pattengill elementary teacher of the year, Sarah is also the Berkley Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year and will be honored at an Oakland Schools event in May.
Rogers: Carolyn Smarjesse, 4th Grade
On the nomination form, a colleague shared the following about Ms. Smarjesse: Carolyn cares deeply about her students and does a very nice job of advocating for their needs while also implementing any suggested interventions or strategies, as well as accommodations and modifications. She goes above and beyond to help create a collaborative environment amongst the staff and students.
Anderson: Ari Alderman, 7th Grade ELA & 8th Grade Media
On the nomination form, a colleague shared the following about Ms. Alderman: She is fully dedicated to the success of every one of her students. Ari structures every assignment with all learners in mind; she challenges all to perform to the best of their abilities while building in supports and tools that will ensure success. She incorporates technology into her lessons to both assist with and enhance learning. Her energy brings enthusiasm for learning and her caring personality encourages students to do their best work.
Norup Middle School: Prima Dailey, 7th & 8th Grade ELA & Journalism
On the nomination form, students shared the following about Ms. Dailey: Ms. Dailey always goes above and beyond the curriculum to make a connection with her students and help them be the best they can be. Ms. Dailey always helps us acquire knowledge of the current material and makes sure that we flourish through the years. We are forever grateful for Ms. Dailey’s effort and patience in helping us learn. We hope that you understand how much of an impact her specialty has made on our lives and everyone else who has had the opportunity to learn from her.
In addition to being the Norup Middle School teacher of the year, Prima is also the Berkley Schools Middle School Teacher of the Year and will be honored at an Oakland Schools event in May.
BHS: Lenny Waldman, Social Studies & Academic Strategies
On the nomination form, a student shared the following about Mr. Waldman: Mr. Waldman has not only taught me so much about sociology but has demonstrated how to be curious, empathetic, a team player, absurdly open-minded and patient. He has helped me shape a better perspective on the people and world around me, and most importantly helped me become the best version of myself and I couldn’t have done it without hearing all of the time he said, “I’m proud of you.” I am thankful for Mr. Waldman for not only being a great teacher to all of his students but also an amazing role model.
In addition to being the BHS teacher of the year, Lenny is also the Berkley Schools High School Teacher of the Year and will be honored at an Oakland Schools event in May.
