Local Educators Honored For Excellence

Tuolumne County Superintendent Of Schools Office

Sonora, CA – The list is out for the 2016-17 “Excellence in Teaching” and “Career Achievement” awards handed out by the Tuolumne County Board of  Trustees and the Superintendent of Schools Office.

It has been a tradition since 1979 to recognize outstanding local educators and this year there are thirteen being recognized. Officials note that the teaching award is a way to “honor teachers and counselors who have gained the respect and admiration of the education community through their dedication, enthusiasm, and professional standards.” Career Achievement Award recipients must have at least 25 years of teaching experience. Officials say that it recognizes veteran teachers who have made “lifelong contributions to students, education and their community.”

The office provided this list of award winners:

‘Excellence in Teaching Award’:

• Jennifer Walker, Belleview Elementary School
• Sheri Gempler, Tioga High School
• Breann Craig, Columbia Elementary School
• Erin Naegle, Columbia College
• Lindy Middleton, Tuolumne County Schools Office, Special Education
• Stephanie Hanks, Curtis Creek Elementary School
• Carrie Martin, Jamestown Elementary School
• Stacy Kroeze, Sonora High School
• Jessica Brouns, Soulsbyville Elementary School
• Rachel Castongia, Summerville High School
• Tom McGrady, Summerville Elementary School
• Kimberlie Ballard, Twain Harte Elementary School

‘Career Achievement Award’:

• Alice Leonardo, Curtis Creek Elementary School (Leonardo has taught at the school for 38 years. She is also was one of the 2011 recipients of the Excellence in Teaching Award for Curtis Creek Elementary School.)

The winners will receive their awards at the Annual Boards of Trustees Dinner on Tuesday, April 25 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Black Oak Resort Conference Center. For more details contact Toni Combs at 536-2009 or tcombs@tcsos.us.