Last week there was no Wednesday RCFC meeting due to the annual Teacher(s) of the Year Awards held Tuesday at the Fort Collins Marriott. Co-Teacher of the Year Cesar Fuentes (4th-grade teacher at Harris Bilingual School) inspired us with his personal journey (born in the US, returned to Mexico at 11 months old, returned to the US in 3rd Grade speaking no English...), and his dedication. He closed with an emotional 'Thank You' to his parents, in Spanish.
The meeting was run by Mike Hohl, President of Foothills Rotary Club. RCFC member Marty Bachman gave an overview and brief history of the program. RCFC Member Dr Sandra Smyser, Superintendent of PSD, expressed her appreciation of our school teachers and highlighted one of PSD's goals - “connectedness”, which in this setting might refer to Rotary’s participation in the school and community through its Teacher of the Month recognition.
Each of our 3 selections received a $250 check and “apple” trophy presented by the respective clubs’ president. Cesar Fuentes (4th-grade teacher at Harris Bilingual School) inspired us with his personal journey, dedication and emotion. Krista Brakhage ((Poudre High school), a 29-year teacher, shared how her teachers inspired her and how she played it forward to her students. Jane Ryan (Linton Elementary) has 39 years of teaching experience. She took us all back to first grade with her creative “ROTARY” talk.
Each month we are privileged to recognize the Teacher of the Month and the Teacher of the Year is a true grand finale!