The room was silent and calm before officials entered. Once Special Education Elementary Learning Resource teacher Jayne Bannister turned around to see a group of administrators standing in the doorway she looked confused.
‘On behalf of the Clarkston Foundation, I would like to congratulate you on being named ‘Teacher of the Year,? said Deputy Superintendent David Reschke at that moment.
A regular day at Springfield Plaines Elementary turned into a memorable one. Bannister jumped up and screamed with delight. Her hard work and dedication towards the students is recognized with the greatest honor.
‘I can’t believe this is happening,? Bannister shouted as she turned to co-workers.
Upon pulling herself together, Bannister entered the hall filled with cheering students. On her way to the cafeteria, she was overwhelmed to see her friends and family waiting to congratulate her at a surprise ceremony.
This is the twelfth year the Clarkston Foundation has sponsored the ‘Teacher of the Year? program. The foundation looks for educators who possess and demonstrate the ability to create a love of learning in students of all abilities and backgrounds; high expectations for all students; the ability to learn and experiment with new ideas in order to expand their professional knowledge base; a clear understanding of their beliefs and practices; and energy, enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
Not only was Bannister honored at the ceremony, but she also had a surprise waiting for her a few miles away. Bannister traveled to Suburban Ford Waterford immediately following the ceremony. There, she chose her dream car to drive for a year. Bannister decided to cruise Clarkston in a 2005 red Ford Mustang Coupe.
‘What a special day it was for her, as well as the Foundation, our community schools and all the wonderful teachers we have.? said Clarkston Foundation Chairperson Sherry VanderVeen. ? She is phenomenal and represents to us the type of exceptional educator that we could only hope all of our children are exposed to during their time in Clarkston schools.?
Many teachers were considered for the award, including finalists Marilyn Ormiston and Michelle Rice.
Congratulations on a wonderful year Mrs. Bannister.