LEONARDTOWN, Md. (April 6, 2010)—St. Mary's County Public Schools today announced the selection of Ms. Arlene Sachs, a first grade teacher at Leonardtown Elementary School, as its 2010-2011 Teacher of the Year.
"With her experience and professional knowledge, Ms. Sachs will represent our school system well," said Dr. Michael J. Martirano, superintendent of schools. "She sees gifts and talents in all of her students, and works tirelessly to help them reach their full potential."
Ms. Sachs, who earned a Master's degree in remedial reading from the University of Maryland in 1981, and a Bachelor's degree in elementary education from Towson State College (now Towson University) in 1976, has served as a classroom teacher at Leonardtown Elementary School since joining the school system in 1976. Over her 33 years of teaching, she has served as a fifth grade teacher, kindergarten teacher, resource teacher, first/second grade combination teacher, and first grade teacher.
"The learning environment created by Ms. Sachs provides her students with a strong foundation in academic and social skills," wrote Leonardtown Elementary School Principal Denise Eichel and Leonardtown Elementary School Assistant Principal Carrie Smith, in their joint letter of support. "This environment is built on mutual respect between teacher and student, meaningful relationships, and a true enthusiasm for teaching."
Ms. Sachs will represent St. Mary's County Public Schools as a candidate for Maryland Teacher of the Year. This award will be announced at a banquet held in Baltimore on October 8. All county Teacher of the Year representatives will be honored by the Maryland State Board of Education at a recognition luncheon held May 26, in Baltimore.
The Maryland Teacher of the Year will be presented with several prizes, will speak at numerous conferences and events, and will act as an advisor to the Maryland State Department of Education. The Maryland Teacher of the Year is also a candidate for National Teacher of the Year.
Source: St. Mary's County Public Schools