May 2017 Editor: Beth Sklar

President: Steve Archibald

Vice President: Jonathan Baine

Treasurer: Neil Shilansky

Assistant Treasurer: Sandra Warshaw

Corresponding Secretary: Jody Dumeer

Recording Secretary: Mary Sawyer

Professional Development and

Evaluation: Regina DellaVolpe,

Carrie Benigni

Negotiations: Jonathan Baine

Membership Chair and Social Chair: Kristen Keska

Website and Newsletter: Beth Sklar

Building Representatives

EHHS: Joe Holloway, Linda Chambers

EHMS: Jody Dumeer, Pam Penn

Center School: Jonathan Baine,

Pam Peter- Cohen

Memorial School: Donna Kirk, Tara Lloyd

WOULD YOU DRIVE 7.91 MILES, 13 MINUTES, TO HONOR A COLLEAGUE? You are invited to attend our EHEA Teacher Appreciation Presentation Celebration on May 25, 2017 at Campagna Restaurant, 151 Marlborough Street in Portland.

The owner, Ed, has been hosting this event for several years and does a great job working with Jody Dumeer creating a menu of fabulous dishes. It is a wonderful time to recognize our peers for their hard work, have a beverage, sample some great food (have dinner!) and visit with your fellow teachers.Please RSVP to jdumeer@easthamptonct.org by May 15 that you will be attending this event.

Teachers being recognized for their dedication to our students and our profession are listed below and highlighted in this newsletter:

EHHS - Samantha LaBonte, Laura Martin, Trish Seeley

EHMS - Ken Landry, Vanessa Ruutel, Laurie Wosleger

Center School – Carol Kuhlen, Jeremy Moore

Memorial School – Rebecca Flannery, Sarah Maldonado, Lauren Zimmitti

Please visit our website https://eheateachers.wordpress.com/

2017 Teacher Appreciation Program Honorees

The following paragraphs are excerpts from the nominating letters for each individual.

Please attend TAP on May 25, 2017 at Campagna’s Restaurant in Portland to acknowledge our colleagues who are being recognized.

Samantha LaBonte, East Hampton High School Sam continuously engages her students in civic responsibility and leadership. This year, she helped create East Hampton High School’s first Veteran’s Day assembly. In this hour-long school-wide assembly, VFW members and veterans from the community spoke to the school about their service and the importance of Veteran’s Day. The ceremony, which followed a breakfast for the veterans, included presentations to our school’s two active student military service men, speeches, and performances by the band and chorus. Normally, keeping the interest, focus, and respect of 500+ teenagers is difficult, but because the organization fo the presentation, one could hear a pin drop and the students maintained focus and respect for our veterans. Sam is also the senior class co-advisor and planned, among many other events, the senior class trip to Washington, D.C. Students on this trip visited the Capitol, the Holocaust Museum and Memorial, and the war memorials as well. The same two student service members did a formal salute and placed a wreath at the Vietnam Memorial that brought tears to passerbies’ eyes. The trip was well-coordinated, but everything that Sam organizes or runs is always well-coordinated and executed.

“ Samantha LaBonte’s passion and drive for her students, colleagues and career make her an exceptional teacher.”

Laura Martin, East Hampton High School Laura Martin is one of the most dedicated teachers you could meet. As a second career for Laura, she started teaching to truly make a difference in the lives of young adults and to hopefully have the fulfillment that is not felt in many other careers. Laura has definitely reached both of these goals. Her enthusiasm for geometry is unparalleled, as she is always striving to make real world connections with her students. Her innovative projects along with her enthusiasm for teaching make her classes one of a kind. Some of the many opportunities students have to enjoy applying geometric concepts to real life situations are: creating a scale model of their house, determining the height of trees, and using geometric constructions to

create a ying/yang symbol. Laura’s class structure makes it easy for students to know what to expect and her personality and patience inspire all students to highly achieve. Laura Martin goes above and beyond when it comes to parent communication. A day doesn’t go by when she is not calling or emailing a parent regarding their student’s achievement in her class. She has invited community members and other faculty members in to her classes to talk about math strategies for success.

Trish Seeley, East Hampton High School It is difficult to imagine someone more enthusiastic about teaching and learning than Trish Seeley. Her motto is “Carpe Diem, “ and she does her best to seize every day! She is always a cheerleader for her students and their accomplishments, and her students know this. She inspires them in large and small ways, from dressing up as Geoffrey Chaucer to emcee a contest where seniors share their original Canterbury Tales to using video clips of Kid President to teach kindness. Ms. Seeley is also a great collaborator who is always looking to expand her horizons to offer her students the best educational opportunities. She and Dr. Ochterski have teamed up on two innovative chemistry/Shakespeare collaborations-one that used different chemical reactions as metaphors for various relationships in Romeo and Juliet, and one in which students researched a modern social justice issue and tied it back to themes in Julius Caesar. She uses collaboration as a tool to engage students in creative ways, too; when she noticed many of her freshmen learn better through hand-on

“ EHHS is a better place because of Laura Martin and we are lucky that she chose to teach and to teach here!”

“…She gives 110% to whatever she does! We couldn’t ask for a more enthusiastic, hard-working, supportive

activities, she joined with the library media specialist to pilot a program called Novel Engineering. In it, students identify problems in books they are reading and then design and build inventions to help characters solve those problems.

Ken Landry, East Hampton Middle School Mr. Landry is a very talented educator that incorporates fun with real life skills needed for successful participation in individual and group sports and activities. For example, in addition to eteaching students the necessary skills needed to play sports like volleyball, basketball, and floor hockey, Mr. Landry teaches the students how to correctly do core exercises and stretches that students can use and benefit from all the way through adulthood. Mr. Landry as also served the community over the years by mowing the lawns for the town of East Hampton, and has also helped coach the East Hampton High School track team.

Vanessa Ruutel, East Hampton Middle SchoolVanessa exemplifies what it is to be a fantastic teacher in many areas. She works closely with a fellow Special Education teacher to support students that struggle with mathematics using the co-taught model of instruction. She also teaches the highest level of mathematics at the Middle School showing her ability to differentiate with ease. She often finds new ways to stimulate learning by using various grouping ideas and keeping the students motivated and engaged. She inspires success in student achievement by having a close connection and rapport with her students. Because of this mutual respect Vanessa is able to foster a love for mathematics in them as well as a love fore the Patriot Football team! Vanessa is always quick to communicate with parents and keep lines of communication open to develop a strong relationship between school and home. As the team leader for the 7/8 team she is a constant

“Mr. Landry is a wonderful asset to the East Hampton school district, and I hope East Hampton Education Association recognizes Ken as a recipient for this award.”

“Her enthusiasm for teaching shows in all that she does and her students’ success prove this fact. She is truly the epitome of an exemplar, inspiring and dedicated educator.”

support to her colleagues as well as being a friend at every turn to all the teachers in the Middle School.

Laurie Wosleger, East Hampton Middle SchoolEvery day Laurie comes to school looking forward to the lessons of the day. She delivers instruction with enthusiasm and clarity, and despite class sizes she is able to touch base with every child in her care. She inspires the students learning through a variety of ways to include hands-on experiments, use of technology and personal conferences.

Additionally, she works with a variety of professionals to develop/collaborate on students’ performances throughout the year to create an optimal learning environment for all levels of students. She reached out and planned a skype lesson with scientists in Antarctica this year for all of the sixth grade students. She is very active in communicating with parents, so that learning is extended to the home. Laurie maintained a professional workspace and was involved in the new initiative of student-centered conferences, while she was aggressively completing her Master’s degree.

Carol Kuhlen, Center SchoolIn Carol Kuhlen’s classroom, all students’ ideas and opinions are valued. She establishes clear objectives for each lesson and works to meet those specific objectives during each class. She promotes the feeling that it is safe to express their feelings and the students learn to respect and listen to others at the same time. Carol creates a welcoming learning environment for all students. She has high expectations of her students and encourages everyone to always work at their best level. Carol has the ability to let the students know that they can depend on her and other students in their group. When it comes to her students, Carol possesses good listening skills and takes time out in her schedule for anyone who needs her. Carol loves to learn and inspires her students as a result. Her willingness to put in the necessary extra time to determine a better way is phenomenal. She participates in professional development opportunities on her quest to provide students with the highest quality of education possible. Carol is willing to learn new teaching strategies and always seems to be the one who is willing to share what she’s learned with

“She is truly a team player and an asset to the Middle School.”

“As a special education teacher, Carol naturally shifts her gears and is flexible when a lesson isn’t working….Carol Kuhlen has a work ethic that doesn’t quit!”

her colleagues. Carol views collaboration as a way to learn from a fellow professional and uses constructive criticism and advice as an opportunity to grow as an educator. She understands that being a good teacher is a constant struggle to always improve.

Jeremy Moore, Center SchoolHe is always working to improve student learning and his classroom is filled with examples of student achievement. His desire to reach all children and his level of patience reflects upon his ethics as a teacher. Jeremy’s classroom environment has led to improved learning for all students. His creative idea about the trivia board outside his room is engaging not only for the students but everyone in the building enjoys reading these daily fascinating facts. He is concerned about creating an atmosphere of learning that benefits all

students. His management style for student behavior allows for even the most challenging students to have success. He is our go-to-person for SBAC for the building. Last year with the SBAC and this year with the IAB assessments, he has been there through all the difficulties (and believe me there have been many). He has helped many of us navigate the SBAC site and has trained our building on how to use the portal to gain our official SBAC certificate. We can always turn to him for the answers.

Rebecca Flannery, Memorial SchoolRebecca Flannery demonstrates great dedication to the teaching profession, students and the Memorial School community. Rebecca’s enthusiasm and positive approach with her students, their families and her colleagues makes her an exceptional teacher! She challenges and sets high expectations for her students with a wonderful balance of support and encouragement. Rebecca approaches her role working with students and staff in the library/media center by demonstrating creativity and initiative by creating superb curriculum activities. One new program she created utilizes a rolling cart with new books on it, which she brings into classrooms called “Book

“Jeremy is always willing to step up and facilitate in a situation. He is a benefit to the whole atmosphere of Center School.”

“Rebecca Flannery is a lifelong learner who is always discovering new materials or learning new strategies that she can utilize while working with her students.”

Talk”. Rebecca talks about each book as if it were a commercial to get kids and teachers excited in order to check them out. She was also instrumental in changing our antiquated card catalogue system into the 21st century by developing a bar code system in the library. As a media specialist, Rebecca provides innovative teaching of technology with students. Her collaboration with teachers on the use of new technology is extremely helpful! She is also a contributing member of our school PBIS committee!

Sarah Maldonado, Memorial SchoolSarah Maldonado exemplifies what it is to bring fun to the arts through her passionate instruction in music! Students can’t wait to go to music! They never know if they will be learning a new song, using technology, participating in movement or using an instrument. Sarah is always willing to collaborate with her fellow teachers to provide

support throughout the curriculum, providing authentic learning experiences via music and movement! Sarah is also a contributing member of our school PBIS committee! As a member of our PBIS committee, she collaborated to help create our school song! Sarah has volunteered at a variety of functions, including the PTO pasta dinner and has supported the district art show with music. She is always willing to help support a class or school wide activity with her musical expertise! She also demonstrates positive leadership skills within the specials department. In her collaboration with others, Sarah is flexible and accommodating with teacher and student needs and schedules. Her strong, creative and positive behavior management style helps students understand class expectations, while maintaining a fun, exploratory and exciting learning atmosphere.

Lauren Zimmitti, Memorial SchoolLauren has been in our school system as a teacher for over 29 years. She continually supports her 1st grade colleagues by sharing her time, talents and expertise. She does her job with enthusiasm

“Sarah deserves to be recognized by her peers for being a superb example of our teaching profession!”

“Her flexible, collaborative and caring personality makes Lauren (Zimmitti) a very deserving candidate to be a recipient of the TAP award!”

and always strives for excellence. Lauren demonstrates leadership as a teaching professional in a variety of ways. She has been part of East Hampton school district’s TEAM committee and is a mentor for student teachers and beginning teachers. She is always ready to lend a helping hand by being supportive and encouraging to colleagues who are new to the teaching profession. Lauren is also part of Memorial’s PBIS committee. Lauren consistently demonstrates passion for her profession and students. Lauren is creative and works exceptionally well with a variety of learning styles and those students who need a little extra TLC and consistent expectations. She makes learning meaningful and fun!

BUILDING REPRESENTATIVE ELECTIONS WERE HELD. CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO RAN FOR

OFFICE.

EHEA MEMBERS APPRECIATE THE TIME AND COMMITMENT IT TAKES TO KEEP EHEA RUNNING. WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER!!! Here are the election results for each building:

East Hampton High School: Joe Holloway, Parker Strong

East Hampton Middle School: Jody Dumeer, Pamela PennCenter School: Sean Quinn, Jeremy MooreMemorial School: Donna Kirk, Tara Lloyd

See you at the TAP gathering May 25 at Campagna’s and the General Membership meeting at Loco Perro June 8th. Hope it is smooth sailing until then!

EHEA Calendar of Important DatesMonday, May 15, 2017 TAP RSVP due to jdumeer@easthamptonct.org

Wednesday, May 17, 2017 – 3:45 p.m. EHEA Executive meeting at Memorial School

Thursday, May 18, 2017 – 5:oo p.m.    CEA Rally in Hartford. Tell the governor and the state lawmakers KEEP YOUR PROMISE! Fund teachers’ pensions. Go to http://www.cea.org to register. Busses will provide transportation.

Thursday, May 25, 2017 – 3:30-6 p.m.    Teacher Appreciation Presentation at Campagna’s located at 151 Marlborough St., Portland

Thursday, June 8, 2017  - 3:45 p.m.    EHEA Social Gathering and General Membership meeting at Loco Perro, in the Banquet Room, Rte. 66, East Hampton. EHEA Board Elections. Food provided.

Monday, July 17, 2017 – 7:00 a.m. Hands Across the Green Golf Tournament, Glastonbury Hills Country Club. Click the link to register to play golf, dine or donate to the CT Education Foundation: http://www.cea.org/assets/includes/shared/getFile.cfm?type=pdf&getFile=Golf-Tourney-Brochure&loc=/about/cef/  

July 31-August 2, 2017       CEA Summer Leadership. Contact Steve Archibald at sarchibald@easthamptonct.org for details and to find out how to register

Saturday, October 14, 2017 -8:00 a.m. The Eversource Hartford Marathon CEF Fundraiser. Starts and ends at Bushnell Park.

The CT Education Foundation is looking for runners to participate in the 5K, relay race, and half or full marathon. Please sponsor a colleague and/or volunteer to help in the tent. Save the date, details will be sent out as soon as they are available.

If you want to help the East Hampton Education budget pass, please sign up for http://ffn.blue/ehamp/ if you haven’t done so already!

If you are pregnant it is very important to contact Lorraine Sorvillo in the Central Office so that she can review deductions, insurance, etc.

If your address or contact information changes, please contact Lorraine Sorvillo in Central Office and Kristen Keska, EHEA Membership Chair, at EHHS. Please be sure to update your email address with Kristen if it has changed.

If you have an HSA deduction from your paycheck now, be aware that after the last regular paycheck in June, you can no longer have that deduction taken from your salary. Find out about the FSA plan, http://www.osc.ct.gov/ctpartner/

If you are signed up for East Hampton Board of Education insurance, July 1, 2017, the new insurance plan begins: http://www.osc.ct.gov/ctpartner/

If you want to sign up for CEA Summer Leadership, there is still time. Contact Steve Archibald for details on registering and being reimbursed for your attendance.

If you can’t remember who you listed as your beneficiaries….You may need to update your life insurance beneficiary selection form (life insurance is available to all full time employees) and the teacher retirement beneficiary form. If you have been employed by East Hampton schools for a number of years, we highly recommend you do this. Did you know your on-file life insurance beneficiary form supersedes later life events, such as marriage, divorce, or birth of a child?? The unintended consequences can be devastating.

If you want to stay informed, visit our EHEA website often at https://eheact.wordpress. com/

If you like to save money, go to http://www.neamb.com/ for travel discounts and deals.

If you want NEA updates and classroom tips, go to http://www.nea.org/home/52986.htm