Recognizing Charlie Hawk
Literacy Group Facilitator
Clear Creek Elementary School

Recognizing Donna Clemens
Secretary
Department of Information Services

Our Faces of Education honoree this evening is Donna Clemens. She currently serves as the secretary for the Information Services Department, and she is nominated by her colleague, Deb Woodward, who said, "Donna has a strong work ethic and sets the bar high for the tasks she is assigned. When given a job to do, she stays focused and on-task until completed. You can count on Donna to complete the assignment on time, meticulously, having double and sometimes triple checked for errors."

It is with this strong sense of determination that Donna joined MCCSC in 1993 as a teacher's aide in the auto tech class at Hoosier Hills Career Center. She had originally applied to be an aide in the drafting class because of her background with CAD (Computer Applied Design.) However, when the auto tech position came along, she willingly accepted. "They assured me that I did not have to know anything about automobiles," she joked when she learned of her Faces nomination. In 2005, Donna was able to put her computer skills to further use when she joined the Information Services team.

In addition to her projects, one of her main functions is to answer the many calls that come into the IS department. According to her nominator Deb Woodward, callers are often upset, frustrated, hysterical, confused, irritated, and sometimes just looking for someone to listen. "My son tells me, 'mom, you always have on rosy, red glasses'," Donna said of her life philosophy. "I look at everyday as if it is going to be a good day. I do not look at it like a burden. I enjoy helping people." And helps she does, her colleagues say. Donna not only listens, but she asks pertinent questions to help diagnose the problem. No matter what the issue, she will attempt to find an answer, and she does so with a cheerful attitude.

Donna Clemens, you are indeed an asset to your department and to the school corporation. Therefore, the MCCSC Board of School Trustees is honored to recognize you as one of its shining Faces of Education. Thank you for all of your efforts. Congratulations!

Recognizing Denise Hill
Media Specialist
Tri-North Middle School

The staff at Tri-North believes the credit for the media center's success can be directly attributed to Denise, who always approaches her job with a spirit of excellence. "Denise is the consummate middle school librarian," Dr. Hill also said in her nomination. "She is eager to help teachers make full use of the library and is tireless in her ability to make the library, our computer labs and herself available."

Denise joined the MCCSC in 1977 after teaching fourth grade for three years in her hometown of Huntington, IN. Denise's first assignment was at Binford Middle School, where she served until 1984 when Tri-North opened. "I've been here ever since," she said. Denise acknowledges that she has seen many changes. She remembers 16 mm film projectors, card files, and the buzz surrounding the first VCRs and the first automated circulation system. Now in the midst of the digital era, Denise says her philosophy remains the same. She looks at each student as an individual, and she views each opportunity to work with teachers as a collaborative effort. "I have a belief that reading is the key to success in life."

When notified about tonight's recognition, Denise shared that she was honored and humbled, quickly sharing credit with her own parents and her fellow media specialists. "I try to do whatever I can to help," she shared. Her love for her school and her students also was very apparent. "Tri-North is truly a family. There are never two days that are the same, and I enjoy the energy, the enthusiasm of middle schoolers, and the growth they exhibit at this age, she added.

Tonight it is the MCCSC Board of School Trustees' pleasure to share in that energy and enthusiasm. Denise Hill, you are truly an example of what is finest about the profession of teaching and our school corporation. We are proud to recognize you as one of our shining Faces of Education. Congratulations!

Recognizing Tina Peterson
Executive Director
Foundation of Monroe County Schools

Our Faces of Education honoree this evening is Tina Peterson. She serves our school corporation as the Executive Director of the Foundation of Monroe County Community Schools, and she is nominated by MCCSC Media Specialist and FMCCS Building Representative Verna DeLuce, who said, “I feel Tina deserves this award for her dedication to her position. She has increased our funding significantly during her tenure, and she has developed different kinds of grants to fit specific areas of need within the corporation.

The FMCCS awarded its first grants in 1976 and is expected to exceed $ 1 million dollars in cumulative funding to the school corporation this school year. This remarkable level of expansion and attainment in recent years is due to the vision, leadership and community partnership that Tina inspires. From vision screenings to Bradford Woods scholarships, to the FMCCS Science Initiative, to health and fitness initiatives, to grants for professional development or engaging the community in a conversation around 21st Century Education, Tina has helped shape our community’s support of education. Verna added in her nomination, “I have worked with Tina for several years now on each grant cycle. She is always prepared, patient and yet diligent in our meetings. These are, by nature, long and tedious meetings as we determine which requests are awarded the monies. I have never seen her lose her temper; rather she continues to keep us on task, guiding us toward completion…”

Tina has also demonstrated that giving to education can be fun and filled with elegance, grace and style. One need not look any farther than FMCCS New Year’s Eve Gala for an example. Tina created the fundraiser approximately four years ago, and it grows in support, beauty and scope with each passing event. The gala is described as “breathtaking,” “energizing,” and “glamorous.” “It appears that she spares no expense to make this a memorable event for all attendees,” Verna said. However, we all know that an enormous amount of work and partnership helped make the gala the special success that it has become.

Tina, your dedication to the Foundation of Monroe County Community Schools has truly deepened the bond between Monroe County and its schools. You have expanded our definitions of generosity and philanthropy. The MCCSC Board of School Trustees is honored by your commitment. Therefore, it is our pleasure to recognize you as one of our shining Faces of Education. Thank you for your dedication to education and our school community.

Recognizing Carl and Diane Miller
Parent Volunteers
University Elementary School

Our Faces of Education honorees this evening are Carl and Diane Miller. The husband and wife duo are parent volunteers at University Elementary School. They are nominated by Paris King, one of our U-School secretaries. "They are absolutely amazing volunteers," Paris said of her nomination. "I wish I could say enough about them."

The Millers began volunteering about four years ago, when their son was in first grade. "If there is a way to make a difference, we want to do so," Diane said. Both she and her husband realize the overwhelming responsibilities that teachers and schools face everyday. As a result, the Millers work in the school Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. They take on any task asked of them. You will find them working in the library, the classroom, or the office. No job is too big or small. The couple also helps develop and maintain the school website. In addition, Carl is quite an artist and creates some very "amazing" bulletin boards around the school. "They have devoted themselves to our school," Paris added in her nomination. "They are wonderful people."

University School Principal Dr. Janice Bizzari was thrilled that the Millers were selected for Faces of Education. She recalled, with a chuckle, that recently, the staff joked, while Carl was filling in on the switchboard, about what they would do without them. The real truth is that: the Millers have become such a part of the University School family that their impact will be felt for years to come. "This is a wonderful recognition," Dr. Bizzari said.

We, the MCCSC School Board of Trustees, could not agree more. Therefore, we are pleased to recognize Carl and Diane Miller for sharing their time and talent with our schools. Congratulations!

Recognizing Carl Zager
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
Abel Building

Our Faces of Education honoree is Instructional Technology Coordinator Carl Zager. He is nominated by Media Specialist Verna DeLuce, who stated, "Carl is one of our trusty servants, who deserves to be recognized for a life of faithful service to MCCSC."

His contributions to the School Corporation include more than 40 years of teaching experience, with 20 of those years being spent at Batchelor Middle School. In the mid- nineties, Carl joined the Information Services team, turning his computer skills and talents into an invaluable resource. For countless MCCSC employees, he is one of the "calm" voices on the other end of the telephone at the Abel Building.

"Many times, as a librarian, Carl has had to pull me off the edge with a solution to a problem he has talked me through over the telephone," Verna further stated in her nomination. He is extremely knowledgeable, yet he is never afraid to admit when he does not know the answer to your question. Most importantly, Carl is always willing to go the distance to help teachers and employees find the answers.

In addition to his teaching and technology skills, he is a concerned leader. Carl served for many years as MCEA (teachers union) president. The position remains very labor intensive, with many meetings and contract negotiations. "He was president during the time BEFORE the position was granted release time, so he has served us well in that capacity also," Verna added.

Above his many roles, projects and duties, Carl always brings a sense of humor and a smile to work. His love of conversation is a gift that disarms the most stressful situations. He is a great ambassador for MCCSC, who is always pleasant to encounter. Therefore, it is the School Board's pleasure to recognize Carl Zager as one of our shining Faces of Education.

Recognizing Terri Burks
Secretary, Literacy Services
Administration Building

Our first Faces of Education honoree of 2008 is Terri Burks. She is the secretary to the Literacy Services Department, and she is nominated by the Director of Literacy Services, Cathy Diersing. In addition, each member of the Literacy Services staff took time to send in a nomination form celebrating Terri's work and accomplishments as well.

Of her work, Mrs. Diersing said, "I can not possibly say enough about the amazing work that Terri Burks contributes in her role with Literacy Services." Terri is viewed by her colleagues as vital team member, who works with "competence" and "confidence." Her duties include managing her portion of the Title I grants, state reports, summer school and other basic elements of her position. However, one can often find Terri going above her basic duties when she coordinates professional development efforts or supports schools in meeting specific needs. Specifically, she is noted for her work with the Reader's and Writer's Workshop professional development opportunities and the implementation of the Read 180 program for year two.

Her colleagues on the Literacy Services staff affectionately call Terri their "ROCK!" She knows the answer for nearly everything, and if she doesn't know, she will find out," the staff says. Above that, she challenges herself in her own growth by setting high goals, yet she always sees and accepts the best in others. "

Terri also is described as a delight to work with on daily basis. "She never loses focus on why we are here and the reasons we do the work we do. Terri knows that every decision we make, every dollar we spend, every professional development opportunity we coordinate is based on what is best for children," Mrs. Diersing further shared in her nomination. Most importantly, all that Terri does is done with a "smile" and "graciousness."

Recognizing Terry Daugherty
Science Teacher
Batchelor Middle School South

Tonight's Faces of Education is Batchelor Middle School Science Teacher Terry Daugherty. He is nominated by his colleague and fellow Batchelor Teacher Sharon Finley. She wrote in her nomination: "I can think of no other educator who is more devoted to the development of quality education for the children of Monroe County."

Terry is a master teacher with 37 years of teaching experience to his credit, yet he always seeks to improve his own practices. This continuous commitment to learning can be felt in his classroom as he uses best practices to inspire his students to explore the world around them. Not only does he use a hands-on approach to engage students, but his "caring and compassionate nature" also allows him to have excellent rapport with students.

Extending beyond the classroom, Terry is not content to solely improve his practice, but he always shares his knowledge with his colleagues. He is viewed as a leader in his home school, serving on the School Improvement Team and the School Climate Committee. He also is the technical coordinator and the MCEA representative for the building.

Terry's educational philosophy and professional wisdom are often called upon at the district, state and national level. He serves on the Middle School Task Force and the Professional Development Committee for MCCSC, and he is a long-time member of the HASTI, a state science association, presenting at state conferences. He also is a member of the National School Reform Faculty and a national facilitator. During his time as an educator, Terry certainly has served as a mentor to many and is now involved in mentorship training. In addition, he has worked with the New to MCCSC Teachers Orientation process for the past several years to assist new teachers in the development of classroom management skills.

Recognizing Cheryl Fell
Parent Volunteer
Bloomington High School South

It is our pleasure to honor Cheryl Fell, a parent and volunteer at Bloomington High School South. She is nominated by BHSS Assistant Principal Joe Doyle. Cheryl is the first volunteer to be recognized by the Monroe County Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees during the Faces of Education portion of the board meeting.

For about five years, Cheryl has given of her time, energy and talents to the students and school community of South High School. Not only is she a proud mom to two "great" kids, she is willing to support a team, host a pre-dance dinner or a Halo sleepover at any time. Most notably, the South family and the MCCSC community know her for her work with Hoosiers Outrun Cancer. Cheryl is a cancer survivor herself and works with "tireless enthusiasm" to make Hoosiers Outrun Cancer an event to look forward to each year.

Mr. Doyle describes her creativity and coordination as nothing short of "awesome!" Additionally, he said, "she is a vital member of the South community, and the more than 1,500 participants from South have a positive experience about how to live with cancer because of Cheryl."

When she was notified of her upcoming Faces of Education recognition, Cheryl was literally speechless because she considers herself a "behind-the-scenes" person. However, tonight, we are proud to shine a little light her way. Cheryl Fell, you are a wonderful example of just how important parents are in the support of the education process. Your humility, your perseverance and spirit as well as your volunteer efforts are an inspiration to us all. The Board of School Trustees recognizes you as one of our Faces of Education. Thank you!

Recognizing Hermann Serfling
Culinary Arts and Baking Teacher
Hoosier Hills Career Center

Tonight's honoree is Hermann Serfling, Culinary Arts and Baking Teacher at Hoosier Hills Career Center. He is nominated by Brenda Dorsett, who serves as an aide in the culinary program. She wrote in her nomination: "I have worked for Mr. Serfling for three years. He is a very compassionate and understanding person. He works great with students, and they have the highest regards for his leadership. It is so pleasant to hear him guiding students on how to do their assignments."

Joining the Hoosier Hills staff in 2003, Hermann's background made him the right person for the students and the Culinary Arts and Baking program. "He has brought a more featured restaurant approach, HHCC Director Ed Brown said. "His classes are very participatory." Teamwork is emphasized, which is very important in the restaurant and food service industry. Through his work, Hermann is able to share practical lessons gleaned from his training in culinary school. He also has worked in Lake Tahoe and Switzerland. The students are able to learn everything from safety and sanitation to service to preparation and presentation. Hermann ensures that his students receive both "front-of-the-house" and "back-of-the-house" experiences.

A student recently stopped Ed Brown to let him know that he was going pursue a career in culinary arts, and he shared that Hermann's class was the best instruction he had ever received. "He said the class really made a difference in his life."

Hermann Serfling, your ability to make a difference is encouraging. The Board of School Trustees salutes you as one our shining Faces of Education. Thank you for all that you do for our students and our schools.

Recognizing David Tague
Custodial Supervisor
Jackson Creek Middle School

Tonight's honoree is Jackson Creek Middle School Custodial Supervisor David Tague. He was nominated by his colleague JCMS Media Specialist Kris McGlaun.

David began his career with the Monroe County Community School Corporation nearly sixteen (16) years ago as a custodian. "I started out at the low end," he said of his start with MCCSC and working his way up the ladder. He is equally as humble when he speaks of his success in his present position and quickly gives credit to the "team" spirit that exists at Jackson Creek.

Recognizing Chris Freeman
Teacher
Fairview Elementary School

Tonight's honoree is MCCSC Teacher Chris Freeman. She was nominated by her Fairview Elementary School Colleague Nan Plumer. Chris began her career with the Monroe County Community School Corporation in 1990 and has been an asset ever since. When Fairview was notified of her selection for Faces of Education, her principal Karen Adams simply replied, "Good choice!" and Nan Plumer said, "Chris is one of those "behind the scenes worker bees" that I would love to see recognized for her amazing commitment to the children and staff at Fairview Elementary.

Chris is described by her colleagues to be an "outstanding educator." Her work over the last several years at Fairview is dedicated to helping improve student achievement. She works with the staff to analyze data and provide on-going professional development. Chris is a person that leads by example as she models instruction in the classroom or facilitate study groups. In addition, she helps the school secure and carryout grants to support professional development initiatives in the building.

Again, her colleague, Nan, stated, "Not only does Chris possess outstanding instructional knowledge, she has an extremely professional and collaborative style that encourages staff to work together and make decisions in the best interest of our students. Student achievement has increased over the past several years at Fairview, and I believe the hard work of Chris Freeman in collaboration with the administrators and staff is the reason for that increase.

Chris, your commitment and dedication to your fellow teachers and students is more than commendable. You, indeed, are one of our school corporation's shining Faces of Education. It is a pleasure to recognize this evening. Thank you!

Recognizing Helen Vaught and Sharon Ayres
Secretaries
MCCSC Business Office

Helen Vaught

The MCCSC Business Office celebrated the 45th anniversaries of the employment of two key staff members in 2007. Helen Vaught was hired on October 1st, 1962 and Sharon Ayres was hired on March 1st 1962. The Monroe County Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees pauses to recognize them tonight in our Faces of Education segment. They were nominated by MCCSC Comptroller Tim Thrasher and Assistant Comptroller Barbara Buckner

Helen has served as the primary secretary to the administrator responsible for the purchasing function since being hired. Sharon began her work with the school system preparing payrolls and became the bookkeeper for School Corporation funds and extra-curricular funds approximately one year later. They have both been exceptionally dedicated employees throughout their 45 years of employment with the Bloomington Metropolitan Schools and the MCCSC. Their attendance has been and continues to be exemplary and the quality of their work is excellent. They are both committed to completing their work on a timely basis and they do whatever is necessary to make that happen. If a co-worker in the Business Office is absent, Helen is quick to offer assistance completing the responsibilities of the co-worker's position as well as fulfilling the responsibilities of her own position. Sharon always goes over and above in her efforts, attitude and duties at the MCCSC Warehouse, regardless of the request.

Sharon and Helen both began their employment with the school system at the Bloomington Metropolitan Schools Administration Building located at the corner of College and Second Street, the current site of the United Way office. During their 45 years, they have worked with at least eleven Superintendents of Schools and seven different immediate supervisors who were responsible for the areas in which they worked. They both worked with "young" Jim Harvey as Director of Personnel and as Interim Superintendent as well as the more "experienced" Mr. Harvey as the current Superintendent of Schools. According to Tim Thrasher, "One of Sharon's greatest challenges may have been to train the MCCSC's now aged Comptroller (then called the Chief Accountant) during his first few weeks on the job in 1972 in anticipation of her impending maternity leave. While some may argue to this day over the degree to which that training was absorbed by the trainee, thanks to Sharon's efforts and the able assistance of Helen Vaught and other business office staff members during Sharon's absence, the school corporation did survive the much-dreaded (by us) leave of absence."

Office equipment has changed substantially during the period of Helen's and Sharon's employment. Hand-posted ledgers, typed reports and duplicating machines were replaced by the heavy and noisy, but much faster, NCR 33 Bookkeeping Machines and copy machines. These were, in turn, replaced by mainframe computers and then desktop computers. Faxes and e-mail have replaced, to a significant degree, the U.S. Mail and interschool mail. What has not changed over the years is the dedication and service that Sharon and Helen have shown to serving the MCCSC, its staff and students. For 45 years Sharon Ayres and Helen Vaught have truly been two very important Faces of Education in the Monroe County Community School Corporation.

Sharon Ayres and Helen Vaught, it is our pleasure to recognize you this evening. Your service to MCCSC is very much appreciated. Thank you.

Recognizing Lisa Mullis
Health Aide
Grandview Elementary School

Tonight's honoree is Lisa Mullis, the health aide at Grandview Elementary School. She was nominated by her Principal Jennifer Baker. Ms. Mullis joined the Monroe County Community School Corporation in August of 2005, and quickly became as asset to the Grandview community. Her supervisors describe her as organized, caring and calm, patient with parents and students, and a colleague to staff members as well as a life-long learner.

A supreme example of her dedication was demonstrated on Friday, September 7, 2007. Her principal wrote, "Grandview sixth graders were outside having an extra recess. During this recess, several students were stung by yellow jackets. One sixth grade student, who has life-threatening allergies, was stung multiple times. The teacher quickly sent him to the health office where Lisa took immediate action. She notified the office that 911 needed to be called. As principal, I immediately assisted Lisa as she moved into action. She went through the protocol or treatment including administering an Epi-pen shot and as a result of her quick reactions, he was able to make it to the hospital in time to receive additional care, and he survived. Lisa, who works for very little pay, is responsible for saving this boy's life. Besides keeping exceptional records, maintaining excellent parent contact, and multi-tasking everyday, she (also) attended additional trainings last year in order to be better trained to care for our three, Type I diabetic children at Grandview. Lisa is one in a million and I believe she should be recognized as someone who has made a difference in our school community!"

Lisa Mullis, you are one of our school corporation's shining Faces of Education. It is a pleasure to recognize you for all of your diligent work and commitment to our students. Thank you.

Recognizing Janet Tupper
Administrative Assistant
to the
Superintendent and the Board of School Trustees

Outstanding, loyal, unrivaled, organized, knowledgeable, dedicated, unique, talented, calm, resilient, efficient and compassionate....

These adjectives and more have been used to describe the Monroe County Community School Corporation staff member featured in our first Faces of Education segment. Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent and The Board, Mrs. Janet Tupper, has been a valued employee of the MCCSC, beginning in 1965, serving superintendents, the board of school trustees, and the school community for over 32 years. In addition to her service, Mrs. Tupper is a lifelong learner, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management from Oakland City College. Her job title has ranged from Executive Secretary to Administrative Assistant during her years with MCCSC, but one thing has not changed. She has been an asset to every superintendent she serves. Former Superintendent Ronald Walton declared Mrs. Tupper to be simply, "One of the best," and we agree.

She is more than a friend to her colleagues, a comforting smile to the parents, and unparalleled resource to all. Her knowledge and grasp of school law and policy is nothing short of amazing. Her work ethic and dedication has been known to span the work day and the twilight hours. Mrs. Tupper personifies excellence not only in her work performance, but in human spirit. She has served as mentor to many secretaries throughout the district. She is a listening ear and a guiding light to many. No job is ever too great, and no question is ever too small. Time is made for anyone who needs her help.

In her own words, Mrs. Tupper once said, "I could go on and on when relating the challenging, stimulating, and interesting moments of this position. It has been my pleasure to work for you and the Board of School Trustees. I never "dreaded" attending Board meetings but rather looked forward to the earnest discussions of the dedicated members seeking to further educational opportunities for the children in our community."

Tonight, it is my pleasure to turn the spotlight on an outstanding employee and very special person, Mrs. Janet Tupper. Thank you for your service to the MCCSC. You deserve this honor!