|Joe Arnett|Kim
Barrett|Amy
Bates|Jenny Bird|Laura
Blankenship|Sharon Blum|
|Betty
Ann Bonneau|Sharon
Bradley|Cindy Bray|Lora
Bray|
|Donna
Brombacher|Felicie
Brown| Jane
Carlson|Terry Cavallito|
|Christina
Collier|Tina
Cone|Shawn Coryell|Linda
Cox|Julia
Curbo|Jackie Daniel|Helen
Davidson|Jacqueline
Dillon|Eric Edwards|Jill
Engelking|
|Barbara Fix|Sherry
Gleason|Katrina
Grandquist|Linda
Havins|
|Gretchen Hawksworth|Patt
Henry|Brenda Hudnall|Andrew
Jacob|
|Kevin Koger|Ashli
Kottwitz|Ruth
Kramp|Kristy Logan|Jennifer
McConaughy|
|Jackie McKnight|Jennifer
Morbitt|Sherri
Newman|
|Resa
Prescott|Jennifer
Pustejovsky|Marco
Ramirez|Jennifer
Reiken|
| Karen Roberts|Christy
Saenz|Rick
Saigling|Becky
Salonish|
| Connie Seelhorst|Richard
Sklar|Ashley
Slaughter|Kevin
Sowell|Nila Stewart|
|Patti Stewart|Diane
Strawn|Kathy Sutton|Tammy
Thomas|
|Lauren
Thompson|Sharon
Townsend|Nicole
Vickerman|David
Van Derven|Donna
Voelk|Susan
Walker|Kevin
Welborn|Cindy Wisdom|
| Joe Arnett My entire teaching career has been with Plano ISD. After receiving my masters in chemistry, I started teaching primarily chemistry courses with PISD. After 13 years of teaching several courses and levels of chemistry, I transitioned into physics. For the past 12 years I have been involved in the development and delivery of physics courses. I enjoy discovery how things work and love using that knowledge in projects around the house as well as a side business. For example, I take down and prune trees on the side. Whether it is using a friction device to control the descent out of the canopy of an 80 ft tree or placing the correct notch to drop half of ton of timber, it is all about physics! I feel that the best way to learn science is to do science. Learning about science takes a back seat to being involved in a hands-on course where you are doing science. Developing an activity that allows a student to “discover” the underlying principle is far more effective than telling the student what the principle is. I have been teaching at Williams High School for 7 years now. I teach medical science and health. In the past I have also taught PALS, Biology and have been the cheerleading coach. I was raised in Plano. I went to Christie Elementary, Carpenter Middle School, Clark HS and graduated from Plano East. I attend Texas Tech University where I received my Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy. I worked as a recreational therapist for 5 years at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas. The teaching opportunity was presented to me and I decided to jump right in. I have truly enjoyed my teaching experience. My free time is spent doing volunteer work, golfing, time with niece and nephews and reading. I have the most adorable dog, a min pin named Sophie and two goofy cats, Sterling and Silver. My
philosophy of teaching is that I believe every student has the ability
to be successful in school and life. As a teacher, I am there to
help them find the right path to their own successes and celebrate
those with them. I also believe the student does not necessarily
need to like the subject to enjoy the class and benefit from it.
It is my job to reach out to the students and see that they are
gaining from the class. Amy Bates I have been teaching middle level math and science for 15 years, the last 10 in Plano ISD. I received my undergraduate degree from Texas A&M, and my master’s degree from Texas A&M Commerce. Needless to say, I love my Aggies during football season, although I am learning to have more patience these days! Currently, I write curriculum for Plano ISD and train teachers within the district and across the state in effective teaching methods. I enjoy swimming, reading, and spending time with my wonderful husband and 4-year-old son. I
have a passion for learning and discovering new things. I think
the role of the teacher is to help students find the joy in learning.
I have been teaching for 17 years. In that time I have taught French I and II, English I, Pre-AP English I, English II, Pre-AP English II, English III, and English IV. Currently I am working as a librarian at Rose Haggar Elementary. I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a B.A. in English and French. I also hold a Master’s Degree in Teaching College English and am a certified school librarian. I love that my “homework” is reading! After teaching high school for many years, I have been enjoying reading many novels that appeal to 4th and 5th graders and starting a lunchtime book club to share my love of reading with my students. I believe that
we are all lifelong learners and that the skills we build now will
aid us in all of our future endeavors. I graduated from LSU with a BS and have a MED from UNT. I have completed certification in counseling. I have taught all levels in high schools for 25 years. I have also taught for 5 years @ Collin County Community College, Richland Community College, and SMU. I'm a grandmother of a 5 year old. My son, a single parent, is finishing his degree at SMU and living with me, so that I can really get the "grandmother" experience up-front-and-close! I have found that students learn best when given a variety of learning options. The opportunity to become a facilitator with eSchool will give me another forum to enhance the learning experiences of my students. I currently use sites on the Internet for activities for some of my classes, which has enriched their experience in class. I have been with Plano ISD for 16 years and am currently a math teacher at Jasper High School. I have served as an eSchool teacher since its inception and hope to continue for many years. A few other things I have accomplished while in Plano ISD are listed below. Experienced
Teacher of the Year for Williams High School in 1997 If I have spare time, I enjoy working Sudoku puzzles and playing with my grandson. I believe teaching
is a privilege. My ultimate goal for my students would be to love
math as I do. I realize that may be asking too much… If
I could choose any other profession, I would be a student. There
is soooo much information out there I still don’t know. I have been teaching special education/social studies in PISD for 4 years. I am a native of Greenville, MS and received my undergraduate degree from Mississippi State University “Go Bulldogs”. Currently, I teach US History and Economics during the regular school year. During the last two summers, I taught Economics. My hobbies include: reading, playing with my 2-year-old, and cooking. My husband and I love traveling to MSU football games during the fall. I
believe that every child deserves an educated and encouraging teacher
with the passion to help others. Teaching is exciting to me and
I incorporate that same energy in my classroom. I have been a teacher for 32 years. I have taught in both middle school and high school. Subjects taught include life science, earth science, and all levels of Biology. I am currently the science technology instructor for the high schools and senior highs in Plano. My job description includes instructing students and teachers in preparing and using multimedia, web page development, Microsoft Office software, and science probeware labs. I am also currently working on my CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate.) AWARDS
AND HONORS COLLEGES
AND UNIVERSITIES My favorite hobbies are reading, travel, and genealogy. I have traveled to almost all of the 50 states in the US and abroad to Mexico, Canada, Belize, England, Scotland, Wales, Germany, Austria, Italy, France, Spain, Gibraltar and Morocco. I love old ruins, castles and cathedrals. I am fascinated with genealogy and have traced some of my line far back into Britain. Other ancestors are harder to trace, and I am only back into the 1700's. I love the hunt and the clues to solve the mystery. I believe that everything we do has the potential to be a learning experience for us; thus I feel that learning is a life-long occurrence. There is no way we can ever remember all the knowledge that we are exposed to in school but we can learn the skills and appreciation for knowledge that will enable us to learn and accomplish more in our lifetime. Learning to be more aware of everything around us will enable us to get the most out of our experiences. We must dig a little deeper, be willing to make that mental side-trip that can open new encounters that will enrich our brains and lives. I want my students to realize that life is a banquet of exotic foods and delicacies, and they cannot settle for mashed potatoes. Lora Bray I
earned a bachelor’s degree from Texas Woman’s University
in Communication Science Disorders and a Master’s degree from
University of Texas in Special Education. I taught children with
hearing impairments in Austin for 2 years and then came to Plano
ISD. I have taught at Armstrong Middle School, Shepton High School,
and now Plano West Senior High School. At home I take care of my
twin 3 year old boys. We enjoy playing in the sun! My philosophy
of teaching and learning is one of continuation. I believe learning
is a life long process. I am here as a teacher to provide a risk-free
environment for students to learn and grow both academically and
socially.
I have been selected to Who’s Who since ’92. Since
in Plano, I have taught English I, III, and IV. I have worked with
CBOI, eSchool, summer school and night school. Felicie
Brown Jane Carlson Teaching
History:
I was born and raised in Queens, New York. I have been married to my husband Frank for 29 years and have lived in Plano for 25 years. We have two children Robert, 27 and Jennifer, 25 both of whom graduated from Plano East. My favorite hobby is going to New York and spending time with my mom and my grandson, Noah who is 2. I have a large dog, Cindy who loves chocolate, cookies, chips and all food that is left on the kitchen counter. In my spare time I love to read the newspaper, fiction and non-fiction books, watch the news and Seinfeld, try new restaurants and of course shop. All students have a gift. As a teacher I try to see that gift and direct the student toward a career goal based on that. Learning is more relevant for the student if they see an end goal in sight and know what they are working for.
10th Year at PSHS, currently teach BCIS and Multimedia. I have taught BCIS2, Webmastering, Business Law, International Business and Business Programming. I was Beginning Teacher of the Year in 1997. I am the Webmaster for PSHS. I run agility with my Border Collie and have traveled all over the country competing with him. I also have a Cocker/Poodle mix that competed in flyball and agility but I retired her at age 10. I married another teacher on campus after 7 years of teaching together. I am a product of Plano ISD, I attended Meadows Elementary, Bowman Middle School, Williams High School and Plano East Senior High. As a computer teacher I believe that technology is great as long as it is used effectively. Most students work best when they have hands on experience. I am more of a facilitator in my classroom and like to provide my students with a structured environment where they can work independently at their own pace. I have taught 12 years. As for the sciences, I have taught Earth Science, Physical Science and Physics. I have taught classes in Algebra, Geometry and Algebra II. I also have tutored privately for 8 years all the above subjects along with Pre-Calculus, Calculus and Business Calculus. I enjoy sailing and curling up with a good book. I have traveled quite a bit growing up as my father was in the United States Navy. I lived in Japan and on most of the US coasts. As an adult I have traveled in Mexico and Central America. My wife Ann and I have two beautiful children. Caitlin is 8 and Molly is 6. When I plan a lesson, I concentrate one other aspect in addition to the content of the material. I plan something I will find fun. I don't worry too much about whether the students are going to have fun. I find I don't have much control over their attitudes. Most of the time, however, when I'm having fun, they end up having fun. I feel that being an effective teacher is a moral obligation. My students, my self-worth and society depend on it. Education:
M.Ed./B.A in English from Austin College A native Texan, I enjoy all things connected to the Lone Star State – the food, the music, the sports, the arts. Although Texas always remained my true home, my husband and I were fortunate to have had the occasion to live in Australia for five years, and our youngest daughter was born there. Then, upon our return, we moved to Plano, which afforded me the opportunity to teach in Plano ISD. Philosophy Of
teaching: I believe a teacher’s role is to equip the student
with the tools necessary to become an independent learner. The greatest
gift I can offer my students is to instill in them a thirst for
knowledge and a passion for learning. I
received my BA from The University of Texas and have since taught
all of the social studies to eighth graders through seniors in three
different states. I completed my Bachelor of Arts degree in Historical Studies at UTD, graduating summa cum laude. I have taught World Geography, US Government, Economics and French for Plano ISD over the last 5 years. I have also taught ESOL and History. I was born and raised in southeast England, and as an adult have lived in Belgium, Mexico, Canada, and various parts of the US (with an Italian husband). I have three children, each born in a different country. Since the rest of my family is still in England, I like to travel back whenever possible. Apart from traveling I also enjoy gardening, cooking, reading, and spending time with family and friends. The job of the teacher is to inspire students to learn and to go on learning long after formal schooling is over. It is also to encourage the commitment required to stay with a task and thus further self-discipline. To
top of page. ¡Hola! My name is Helen Davidson and I have taught Spanish for ten years in Plano ISD. I have taught Spanish 1, 2 and 2 Honors and enjoyed being a Spanish Club Sponsor while at Jasper High School. Some of my hobbies are cooking, scrapbooking, sports and travel. I lived a year in Seville, Spain after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin. I have a Masters in Secondary Education from the University of North Texas. My
philosophy on teaching and learning is that it is a two-way road
that requires participation and involvement from both the student
and the teacher. I also believe that learning should be fun, interesting
and applied to the real world.
Learning is
my passion! It is a vital component of my life because I believe
it to be a life-long process for myself and every student I teach.
My overall goal, as a teacher, is to enable students to realize
this for themselves and engage them in this process. While learning,
I help students make the connection between the subject matter they
are studying and the importance of its application in their every
day lives. It is extremely rewarding to witness students experience
“aha!” moments. I am into my second year of teaching. Prior to teaching, I worked as a Human Resources manager. While I finished obtaining my degree at the University of Texas at Dallas in 2000, I began substituting for Plano and began teaching fulltime the following school year. I have an insatiable appetite for reading. I enjoy all kinds of genres: the classics, mysteries, thrillers, Christian fiction, history, biographies, etc. etc. Also, I love going to the movies. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Literary Studies at UTD I cling to the cliché that knowledge is power. Therefore, I believe one of the best gifts a teacher can give a student is a life long love of learning. I credit my success, and my passion for education to my 12th grade English Teacher, Sharon Kingston of Coronado High School in Lubbock Texas. Jill Engelking My
name is Jill Engelking, and I will be teaching English III, Semesters
I and II. I just completed my 7th year of teaching at Clark High
School in Plano, Texas. During those seven years, I’ve taught
several levels of 10th grade English: Honors, Special Education,
At-Risk, and Regular. In 2002, I was humbled and honored to be named
teacher of the year by my co-workers at Clark High School. In my
spare time, I am a devoted mother to my 2 young daughters. We love
to be outdoors, and my husband is a dedicated golfer. I also enjoy
reading; my favorites are the three books of The Lord of the Rings
trilogy. As a teacher, I believe that student effort should be rewarded.
I realize that not all students relate to literature in the same
way as an English teacher. It is my goal to make learning fun. I
truly look forward to working with my eSchool students! Teaching
experience: 28 years I
am an ice skating judge. Sherry Gleason After growing up in the Dallas area, I graduated from The University of Texas at Arlington with a B. A. in English, and I received my M. Ed. in Education/Supervision from Texas Woman’s University. In my 26th year with Plano ISD, I currently teach Pre-IB English at Williams High School. I’ve taught Night School and Summer School for Plano ISD, written eSchool English curriculum, and I’m currently on the High School Project Curriculum Leadership Team. My favorite things are reading, the beach, the Dallas Stars, playing with our cats and our Chihuahua puppy Tots, spending time with family and friends, and watching Animal Planet. If I had time, I’d read more. I
love teaching and have wanted to be a teacher since I was a little
girl. I believe this profession is a true calling and that I touch
the lives of students in more ways than simply teaching them about
the English language. By becoming a teacher, I feel that I’m
giving back to all my wonderful teachers who helped make me the
person I am now.
I have been lucky enough to travel extensively. I was born in Australia, was an exchange student in Ecuador and Germany, lived and worked in France and most recently took a wonderful trip to the Caribbean islands. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, playing soccer, working at Renaissance festivals and spending time with my family. In
my opinion, the most important skill a student can develop is the
skill of thinking critically about material. My job as a teacher
is to facilitate that learning and give the student the skills they
need in order to succeed. I have been teaching 27 years and have taught Geography, World and US History, ESOL Social Studies, and English. I have been Teacher of the Year at my school and was runner up for ATPE Teacher of the Year in Texas. I love teaching and believe that learning should be fun. Teaching is not just my job, it is how I spend everyday and so I have to enjoy it. I love to help my students discover new things about the world. I have traveled quite a bit. I have been to Russia five times, Honduras three times, Canada, Mexico, England, and Kenya. I would love to travel throughout the world! This is my fourth year teaching in the Plano Independent School District. I obtained my Bachelors degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Social Studies, and I hold a minor in Geography and History. After I received my undergraduate degree from Oklahoma State University I completed a Masters Degree in Counseling and Student Personnel. This degree allowed me the opportunity to work as a program director for an adolescent counseling program in Oklahoma. I worked in the field of counseling for three years before relocating to Texas to become a teacher. I have taught Geography, Geology, US History, and Psychology. Some of my future educational plans are to teach Advanced Placement Psychology courses and begin a career as a counselor in a school system. I am currently involved in a program that sends adolescents to countries in Latin America. The program is designed to promote awareness in regard to the importance and preservation of the rainforests in this region. During the summer of 2000, I spent two weeks in Belize studying the rainforest and the barrier reef. I also spent several weeks in Costa Rica where I hope to develop similar cultural courses. I am an avid scuba diver, equestrian, and outdoorsman. I enjoy first hand experiences with new cultures and places, which help provide an incredible avenue to enhance my Geography and Psychology classes. The primary objective for me as a teacher is to enliven students and motivate them to want to learn and progress. Regardless of the subject, I want them to see the long-range effects of mastering an education and learning from themselves and others. It is imperative that teachers take the responsibility of finding ways to encourage this progression. Teachers set a standard for students to follow if they continue to adapt and grow in their methods and practices of teaching and learning. Teaching
experience: 17 years of experience I
like to read and have 2 grandchildren and 1 puppy (17.5 years old).
I believe that there should be a way for every child to learn. I think eSchool gives children one more opportunity to do this. I
have a BS from UNT and graduated Cum Laude. I
have been teaching for two years at Larry D. Guinn Special Programs
Center where I was nominated for beginning teacher of the year.
I teach U.S. History, World History, World Geography and Government.
I have a beautiful wife and a one year old son that makes me laugh
every day. As for hobbies, I love to play guitar and go fishing.
I also love teaching. I believe that if the teacher has high expectations
then the students will have high levels of success. I do not only
expect my students will succeed, I believe in them. I believe that
my students can and will be successful. I have earned a bachelor’s degree in social science education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. My professional experience includes working in Maryland, Alabama, and Texas as a teacher, coach, counselor, and administrator. It is my goal to assist in the success of my students.
In my spare time, I love to go camping with my family, cooking, scrapbook the growth of my kids, go on playdates for my two year old and stay involved in groups such as Moms Of Preschoolers. In my opinion, Spanish is a very valuable tool to learn for today’s society. I love teaching this language and will go back to the classroom in a couple of years when the kids are older. I have lived and traveled all over Spain, Honduras and Mexico. I believe the language needs to be utilized on a daily basis to really learn and retain it. Practice really is the only way; saying your words aloud as you write and read them is a perfect way to work on pronunciation and flow. With regards
to the eSchool program, I am here to help all my students in any
way that I can and will push them to be successful in this course.
I believe in eSchool and am thankful to be a part of such a wonderful
program. I
taught Economics for ten years prior to becoming a counselor, and
I have taught Economics in summer school since that time. I also
taught Psychology for five years. I love working with students as
both a teacher and a counselor, and find a great deal of overlap
in the two positions. A good teacher will also be a good encourager
and motivator. I’ve always agreed with the sentiment that
“students don’t care how much you know until they know
how much you care.” I am excited to be working with students
and helping them achieve academic success.
Kristy Logan I have been teaching for 14 years. This is my 9th year of teaching in the Plano Independent School District. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from Lubbock Christian University. I am certified in Health Education, and Physical Education. I have been awarded with Who’s Who Among American High School Teachers since 1996. I enjoy reading, and traveling, or doing both at the same time. Every summer I travel to a different destination. Right now I am planning a trip over to France to visit family. When I’m not traveling, I spend time with my family. I have 2 sisters and 2 brothers all of whom have children. I love doing things with my nieces and nephews. I have a great family. I believe that family is the cornerstone to growth. As a teacher, I believe that each student is unique and can bring many qualities to the classroom. I cling to the belief that “Knowledge is Power” and I want to prepare my students to use their “Power” for healthful, successful decision-making after high school.
Jennifer McConaughy
I have two sons attending Plano schools. I enjoy playing softball, reading and spending time with my friends. I
believe each student has unique and individual qualities that need
to be nurtured and appreciated. I want to see each student succeed! I teach Chemistry and Physics PISD eSchool. I graduated as a Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Alabama with a BS in Chemistry and minors in Mathematics and Computer Science. I also have enough college credit hours to qualify for minors in Physics and English. I have completed half of my coursework for a Master’s of Arts in Science Teaching at the University of Texas at Dallas. I am the Science Department Head at Clark High School in Plano, Texas, where I currently teach Chemistry 1 and PreAP/IB Chemistry. I have also taught Biology, Integrated Physics and Chemistry, Pre-kindergarten, and music classes. I have been honored to be selected as a member of “Who’s Who in American Teachers” and also am a member of the Cambridge “Who’s Who in Business and Professional Women”. My hobbies are reading, trout fishing in Colorado, and sewing. I also enjoy traveling to Mexico with my husband of 35 years whenever possible. I have 3 children (2 married) and 2 beautiful granddaughters! I believe every
student can be successful when motivated to WANT to learn. It is
my job as a teacher to ensure that students understand the relevance
of the subjects I teach to their future, so that they will want
to carry the knowledge gleaned from the course with them into their
adult lives. Jennifer Morbitt My
name is Jennifer Morbitt. I am a government teacher for Plano ISD.
I have been teaching for five years and still enjoy ever minute
of it. I love studying the history and current state of American
politics. I received a bachelor’s and master’s degree
in political science, and therefore, having the opportunity to teach
my favorite subject is my dream come true.
Teaching
Experience: 24 years experience in instructing students in Social
Studies I earned my BS from The University of Texas at Austin and my M.Ed. from the University of North Texas. I taught all levels of high school for 9 years in Plano ISD before leaving full-time teaching to raise my family. I was recognized as the New Teacher of the Year at Williams High School in Plano ISD during my first year of teaching. Within eSchool, I teach Pre-algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Precalculus. I am also a private math tutor. I truly enjoy teaching and chose this profession because I am fascinated with learning and desired the challenge of being a part of this awesome process. I am grateful that I can continue working with students through eSchool and my tutoring. I am married, and we have a daughter in elementary school in Frisco. I am part of a wonderful Christian home, and I enjoy spending time with my family. I am a native Texan, but I love to travel to the Colorado wilderness for cool summers and experience the fall foliage season in New England. As a UT graduate, I bleed orange. The fall is one of my favorite seasons for many reasons, and UT football is definitely one of those reasons. I also enjoy the work I do as a volunteer at my daughter's elementary school. Watching my daughter grow has taught me that time is fleeting, and I try to savor every precious moment. I
believe that we are continually learning. As learners, we construct
our own knowledge by utilizing a variety of resources. Educators
can help guide students to connect their prior experiences to their
present knowledge and then encourage them to apply this knowledge
to their future endeavors. My objective as a teacher is to aid in
producing responsible, knowledgeable, and independently thinking
individuals. Hello! My name is Jennifer Pustejovsky. I taught for three years at the Special Programs Center, and three years at Williams High School. Right now, I am a stay-at-home mom for a two-year-old boy and a three-month-old girl. I am definitely busy, but I have the time to teach English with eSchool because I truly love teaching English. I believe all students can enjoy and appreciate the subject of English if they keep an open mind. Of course, one of my hobbies is reading, and I am currently working thorough a book about the Great Dust Bowl. My all-time favorite book is A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. It is a must read for all book lovers! I also have a wonderful husband of four years. Besides spending time with my family, I love to travel, especially to New York where most of my family resides. Going to New York coincides with another favorite hobby-eating! My family and I love to eat and try new foods, and New York is the perfect place to do just that. I also enjoy cooking, exercising, and spending time with friends and family. My goal for this year is to train to complete a half marathon. I
truly look forward to your participation in this course! Marco
Ramirez I
am originally from Kansas. I graduated from Kansas State University
with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. My
hobbies are working out, and spending time with friends. I love
to be outside whether it is being out on the lake, laying out by
the pool, or camping out. I
have served as an educator for eighteen years, and I am currently
staying at home with my children. I obtained my B.S. in 1986 from
Eastern New Mexico University, my M.Ed. in 1996 from West Texas
A&M University, and my Mid Management certification in 1998
from West Texas A&M University. I have worked in five different
school districts where I have taught Health, Science, and Physical
Education. I have also worked as a Coach, Counselor, and Assistant
Principal. Most recently I served as a Counselor at Hedgcoxe Elementary
for two years, was the Administrative Intern at Clark High School
for one year, and was the Assistant Principal at Renner Middle School
for one year. In addition, I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor.
I believe that all students should have an equal opportunity to
receive the best possible education and guidance toward successfully
achieving their goals. It is my conviction as an educator that I
should perform my duties in a manner, which promotes a nurturing
learning environment. Christy Saenz I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Historical Studies and Literary Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas in 1999. I taught for four years in Plano, and took several graduate courses in gifted and talented education. I began teaching in the eSchool program during my time in the classroom. I am currently a stay-at-home mom, teaching eSchool World History and Economics. I love being able to devote much of my time to my one-year-old son, Micah. I also enjoy time spent with my husband and family, friends, and church community at Fellowship Bible Church North in Plano. My hobbies include reading, scrapbooking, and traveling. Our next adventure will be to Kauai in September! I believe that every student has unique gifts, abilities, and learning needs. As a teacher, whether it is within a traditional or a virtual classroom environment, I believe it is my role to develop relationships with students that will help them make a connection to their learning, and encourage them to strive toward their personal best. I have a passionate interest in the social studies, and I love to learn. Plano’s eSchool offers students amazing opportunities to get ahead or catch up, and I am excited to be a part of this still relatively young dimension of education. Rick
Saigling Currently, I teach U.S. History at Plano East Senior High, where I am the team leader for the U.S. History team of 15 teachers. I also teach Accelerated Credit Recovery for students in American Government, World Geography, and World History. I have both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree, along with certifications in Journalism, History, Geography, Government, and Public School Administration. Outside of school, I am involved in church and family activities. I enjoy working out and landscaping my lawn as hobbies. The job of a teacher is to inspire students to make the most of themselves. Within each student, there is a drive to achieve a goal in life, even if the student does not recognize this at a young age. If students are dedicated to their studies, and learn to balance school and “life in general”, they will become successful and productive citizens. This is a tough job for any teacher, but success stories are the reasons teachers continue to work as diligently as they can in educating the young minds of tomorrow. Becky M. Salonish I have 12 years of teaching experience. The subjects that I have taught are Reading, Freshman English, Sophomore English, Junior English and TAAS Reading Remediation. I also sponsored cheerleading for 9 years and have sponsored the Vines High School Yearbook for the past 4 years. Recently, I went to Italy for a12 day vacation. Starting in Venice, I visited most of the major sights down through Tuscany and ended in Rome. I have also traveled to Ireland, England, Scotland, France and Switzerland. I believe that visiting many different places and experiencing different cultures benefits a person and makes one appreciate what they have. I love to read many different types of books, I also enjoy watching movies and playing with my dog Charlie. I believe that
every child can learn and achieve a quality education. With hard
work, anyone can attain greatness. The only limits that you have
are the ones that you put on yourself. Teaching
experience: 30 years - One year in Arlington, Three years at Plano
Senior High School, and Twenty-six years at Plano East Senior High.
Richard
Sklar I am in my second year of teaching. I teach History, Government and Economics at the Special Programs Center. Prior to teaching, I spent fifteen years in business working primarily in brand marketing and advertising. I was born and raised in New York and have a BS from Cornell University and an MBA from the University of Michigan. I love teaching. It is really what I always wanted to do. When I’m not working, I love to spend time with my wife and two boys who are twelve and six. I also like to read, mostly nonfiction, and love basketball, both playing and coaching. As
a teacher, I believe it is important to help my students build their
self esteem, understand the importance of being a lifelong learner
in order to flourish in society and to develop the skills necessary
to compete in the world. Specifically as a Social Studies teacher,
I strive to strengthen my students’ oral and written communication
skills. I have six years of classroom teaching experience. I taught English I at Jasper High School for three years and taught pre-AP and regular English II and English III at Berkner High School in Richardson for three years. Additionally, I have been tutoring all levels of secondary English, SAT prep, TAKS prep, and study skills for two years. In 1999 I was awarded Beginning Teacher of the Year for Jasper High School. I have attended the SMU Advance Placement Summer Institute. I am the mother of seven children. Since my husband and I married in 2003, we have become “Yours, Mine, and Ours.” His two children live in Florida, and we live with the beautiful chaos of five active children. When I get a moment to myself I love to write and am currently working on my first novel. I also love to read, sew, and paper craft. I
believe learning is a lifetime commitment. I value the opportunity
to facilitate students in gaining an appreciation of literature
and writing. I strive to ignite a fire within each student to find
their passion for learning. I have been teaching since 2000. I entered the world of teaching after practicing Podiatric Medicine for 10 years. I teach Biology, Chemistry, Physics, IPC and Health. I did my undergraduate studies at the University of North Texas. I obtained my DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) from the California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco, CA and then received my Master's from the California College of Podiatric Medicine while doing my residency program. I have two Shelties, Rocky and Lucy, and two cats, Tiger and Diego. I enjoy gardening, boating and spending time with my friends. I feel that every day is a chance to learn. We should always strive to learn something new and always try to become better persons. Basically, if you are not learning anything new, you are not living life to the fullest! Nila
Stewart
Diane Strawn · 32
years in the Business Department at Plano Senior High School · Graduated
with a B.B.A. from Texas Christian University · Currently teaching part time at Collin County Community College · My husband and I live on our 50-acre farm, which is located east of Lucas. We enjoy attending Texas A&M football games. I also like to garden, read and baby-sit our 9-month old grandson. Family is a very important part of my life. · Having
taught computer courses for so many years, I can only agree with
the ESchool philosophy. eSchool gives students the flexibility to
succeed using their individual learning style with the teachers’
guidance. I do believe a person can learn something new every day
and Internet classes are another means of doing so. I’m looking
forward to working with these students whatever their goal may be.
Classroom
Teaching Experience Plano
eSchool Teaching Experience Technology
changed the way students learn and teachers instruct. I am proud
to be a part of eSchool and the opportunities it provides for students
throughout the United States. Students from Africa and other parts
of the world have received instruction through our program. Tammy Thomas I have been teaching 8th through 12th grade science for eight years, five in Dallas and three in Plano. I am currently teaching IPC and Chemistry in the classroom and Chemistry and Physics in eSchool. I have also taught Biology and Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography (GMO). I have a B.S. in Biology, minor in Chemistry, specializing in molecular biology from the University of North Texas. I am in the process of completing my Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the same university. I share my home with two cats, a cockatiel and a blue-tongued skink. During the summers, I enjoy traveling with a group called EarthWatch. They send volunteers all over the world to assist scientists with research projects. So far, I have sailed the Spanish coasts studying declining populations of common dolphins, lived on a beach in St. Croix studying Leatherback turtles, and spent weeks in Roman libraries searching through rare books from the Renaissance period for ancient medicinal plant uses. Next summer, I plan on working in Tsavo, Kenya studying the mane-less lions and how to reduce lion/livestock interactions. My
philosophy of teaching is very common sense. Science is all about
doing, not just learning from a teacher or a book. Discovering an
idea on your own is much more meaningful than being told about it.
Lauren Thompson I have been a 9th and 10th grade English teacher for 6 years, and over the years I have taught Academy, co-taught, regular, and Pre-IB levels. I also have taught sections of the SAT Prep class offered at our school. I earned Clark High School’s Beginning Teacher of the Year award. I will be co-department chair of the English department as well as the 10th grade regular team leader this coming school year. I earned my BA in English with a minor in secondary education from the University of North Texas in 1998. Currently, I am working toward earning my MA in Humanities from the University of Texas at Dallas. I love to read and try to do so whenever I can. I also am a certified SCUBA diver and have traveled around the Caribbean to see all I can below sea level. I believe all students have the capacity to learn, and they all can find something that they enjoy from school. So many students have come to my class with a negative attitude about English, and I make it my personal goal to find something even the most reluctant ones can enjoy learning. Granted, I don’t always reach all of those students, but I hope that even if they don’t love English by the end of the year, they realize that they have someone at our school who truly cares for them.
I love to spend time with my grandchildren. I have 7 grandkids in the Plano area, so they keep my husband and I busy with their soccer games, cheerleading, and dance. I am always reading a book. Shakespeare is my all time favorite author. Braveheart is my all time favorite movie. I have 2 adorable cats, Shakespeare and Sadie. My husband and I love to go on cruises. I am a football fanatic. My teaching
philosophy is to passionately teach my students with an open mind
and heart. Teachers must not be so set in their ways that adaptability
is lost. I adjust when timely topics come up instead of staying
with the planned lesson. I can vary from routine and rules when
necessary to help a student. I invite humor and enthusiasm into
my classroom and encourage them to stay. In the words of Winston
Churchhill, “We make a living by what we get, but we make
a life by what we give.” I am a teacher, and I would not trade
places with anyone!! Nicole
Vickerman Teaching
Philosophy: Successful students are responsible, curious, and open-minded.
Personal Information: I love to travel and just recently returned from Australia. I have also been to parts of Europe and the Caribbean, and I hope to travel to Asia in the near future. I love to read, play soccer, and spoil my niece and nephew. David J. Van Derven Teaching Experience:
2 years – Plano West Senior High School Philosophy of Teaching: Teachers should focus their time on variety, make the material applicable to students’ daily lives, and of course make it fun! Throughout the past two years, I have made a series of instructional adjustments in order to better meet the needs of all my students. I have implemented a variety the types of learning activities: Straight Lecture to Power-Point Presentations, Hands on Activities like the making of volcanoes and culture collages, Group Projects (Van Derven’s Road Rules), Making complete use of all curriculum resources available – Internet Lesson Sharing, Team planning, ESOL and Special Education Services, Librarian Know-How, Department Computer Labs, and Incorporating Contemporary Films like The Legends of the Fall to further illuminate the atrocities of WWI. Donna Voelk I’ve been a Special Education and English teacher at Plano Senior High School in Plano, Texas, since 1998. Prior to undertaking a career in education, I was an officer in the regular and reserve United States Air Force for twelve years. In both capacities, I had many opportunities to interact with students, teachers and service members from a variety of levels and nationalities. Since I also came from a military family, I’ve lived in many different places! These include: England, France, Guam, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and, not least, Texas! I have three children; one son in middle school, another in high school and a daughter in preschool. As you can see, I deal with a wide range of ages during my day. My hobbies include reading, gardening, stained glass and training my new dog! I
uphold a teaching philosophy that encompasses all students regardless
of ability. “Imagination is more important than knowledge”
by Einstein is one of my favorite quotes. Different students may
have different learning styles and instruction should address these
needs. In today’s society, it is absolutely critical that
high school graduates be able to communicate clearly through both
reading and writing. As a teacher, I hope to foster a love of literature,
reading and writing so students continue to grow independently once
they graduate.
Teaching has been my joy for the last 30 years. Math, Physical Education and Dance have been the subjects that I have had the opportunity to teach. Extra curricular subjects have ranged from coaching athletics to math teams. Honors for teacher of the year have come my way, along with recognition at the state level for excellence in teaching mathematics. Leadersh |