Although I can’t hardly believe it, but nearly one year ago today, I was a regional finalist and was giving my oral presentation to a group of @ 75 people.  Today, I was on the other side as a scorer for our next Maine Teacher of the Year.  I have to say that it was much less stressful pulling up to the Buchanan Alumni Hall at the University of Maine Orono campus.  It was nice to get out of my car and be able to breath, something I was struggling with last year, for sure.  

Jennifer Pooler, the Coordinator for the Teacher of the Year Program, did a superb job organizing all of the parts involved with this tedious selection process.  It has been such an honor working under her guidance and organization.  After Jennifer explained the day’s itinerary, I had the privilege of introducing each of the six regional finalists: Thomas Fournier, Kevin Grover, Barbara Noone, William Thompson, Jayne Quinn Sawtelle and David Wilkins.  It was a pleasure to see these incredibly gifted teachers once again, as I had met them all at a prior reception, the Hall of Flags Ceremony, and I also spend a day at three of these candidates’ schools while scoring them at their site visit. 

Each of the nominees did a remarkable job presenting today.  They also turned in their portfolios, which I know first-hand was a  huge undertaking, but a worthwhile opportunity to reflect on one’s own teaching practice and philosophy.  Being at the Oral Presentation portion of the ToY process made me very nostalgic for my friends that went through the 2009 ToY process with me.  A few of the nominees from last year have become dear friends of mine, and I really missed them today. 

 

I want to take the opportunity to also personally thank Hannaford for their continued support of the Teacher of the Year Program.  Truly without Hannaford’s generous contributions, the Maine Teacher of the Year would not be able to participate in all of the enriching opportunities that are presented to them throughout the course of the year.  THANK YOU ever so much, Hannaford!  I will never forget what you have done for this Maine teacher…your gift has helped not only me, it has benefited my students, the community and our state.