‘Teacher of the Year Application Shannon Shanning, What creative projects make this teacher's work in the school conmnanity outstanding? Shannon demonstrates a remarkable ability to embed learning in real-world experiences and connect students to the school and greater community, Several examples illustrate her work well. First, Shannon established a partnership with the local Fire Department, Fire department personnel work regularly with students in Shannon's self-contained program (who dubbed themselves the “MidKnight Fire-Slayers”) to focus on fire safety, fire-fighting, teamwork, and collaboration. Shannon embeds reading and writing instruction, as well as opportunities to develop problem-solving and communication skills. As a part of their work together last year, every student in her program received their CPR and First Aid ccttification. Additionally, students Jed an effort to inform the school community of the importance of smoke detectors and facilitated the delivery of free smoke detectors to middle school families through a grant received by the Fire Department. Earlier this year, students applied their research, math, and teamwork skills to engage in a “Top Chef Challenge” in which students competed against the fire department to cook the best chicken wings. Shannon has facilitated the development of elose relationships between her students and the Fire/Rescue staff that serve to encourage and support students in their work and lives outside the classroom. It is remarkable to see. Making learning engaging is a real strength for Shannon. In addition to being “MidK night Fire Slayers,” her students are also known as the “Trailblazers” during their survival h students’ interests and in this unit, in the wild unit. Shannon selects topics to connect wi students employ reading, writing, and research skills to learn about survival techniques. ‘This year, students are developing e-books highlighting their learning. They work collaboratively to design and build shelters and maintain a nature trail, Where other teachers might shy away from such labor-intensive efforts, Shannon is at her best when engaged with her students in these ways. She is curently planning an overnight camping trip for this spring. Shannon inspires her students, ‘many of whom lack confidence in their skills and abilities, to believe in themselves, invest in their learning, and take pride in their accomplishments.‘Teacher of the Year Application Shannon Shanning, What has been this teacher's influence om students? Shannon’s teaching has transformed her students’ lives. I's a strong statement, but as @ school, we have witnessed firsthand the changes her instruetion and guidanee have brought about for students in her program. She forms deep, trusting relationships with her students, and demonstrates her willingness to go above and beyond to assist them. When one student needed support in order to participate in the cross-country team, she joined the team and accompanied him to meets. Not only did he have an incredibly successful season, but was recognized with the Coach's award at the end of the season! When another student struggled to manage her hair and clothing, Shannon brought in supplies and helped teach her to take care of herself. Her students know she cares about them, and because they trust her, they accept her firm guidance and constant challenges to push themselves in the classroom Many students, after years of struggles in the classroom, lack confidence in their abilities. As a result, students new to Shannon’s class sometimes initially balk at the challenges she puts before them, Shannon does not allow them to back down. She does not let them take the easy way out. She works with students to develop goals that reflect high expectations and expresses her unwavering belief in their ability to achieve those goals. Shannon understands that with high expectations comes a need for high support, and she ‘works tirelessly to support students in meeting their goals. Their joy, their pride, their sense of accomplishment upon achieving their goals is evident and indeed, transformational. Students ‘emerge into more confident, productive, and capable young adults. We have seen them build relationships and take risks in ways they have never before, Time and time again, families comment on the differences they see in their children under Shannon’s tutelage and they express their gratitude for the love, attention, and encouragement she provides for them, Shannon’s ightened confidence and improved skills is ability to facilitate her students? journey toward hi indeed a gift to their families, as weil, who revel in their children’s accomplishments and growth,Teacher of the Year Application Shannon Shanning Describe the ways this teacher demonstrates leadership and relates to his/her colleagues Everyone at Whittier knows Shannon holds the most difficult teaching position, so when you see that she is endlessly positive, upbeat, and optimistic, you can’t help but feel that way yourself. Shannon's humor and positive attitude is infectious. She has an easy, comfortable way about her ‘hat inspires trust. Colleagues frequently seck her out as a source of support and guidance, One teaching colieague recently noted her appreciation of Shannon's ability to problem-solve and develop creative leaming opportunities. As our school prepares for a major National History Day event, the Social Studies department noted the students in Shannon's program (and a few others) did not have a role. Shannon guickly devised a plan to engage these students as reporters and set up her room as “media headquarters” for the event, Student responsibilities will incfude press coverage, student interviews, and video-recording of the day. Shannon models solution-focused thinking and refuses to let obstacles prevent her (or her team!) get in the way of making great things happen for kids and our school. She is a team player who truly leads by example and has gained the trust, admiration, and respect of the faculty as a result, Every afternoon, teachers make their ‘oom to consult, share ideas, and connect. Much in the way Shannon way to Shatin: ‘demonstrates a remarkable ability to encourage and motivate her students, such is true for stall, as well There are two more examples of Shannon’s relationships and leadership worth noting in this limited space. Pirst, where many teachers struggle to work with ed techs effectively, Shannon has a true partnership, zo such difficulties. Her working relationship with the ed tech in her room ‘Their relationship is marked by open communication, collaboration, and support for one another in ways that truly benefit students. Secondly, when Shannon sees a problem, she seeks solutions. For example, when lunchtime teachers’ room conversation seemed to trend toward the negative, Shannon and a colleague secretly developed a list of conversation prompts. Bach day, Shannon and her co-conspitator launched a pre-planned conversation prompt (some were quite ridiculous!) (o stimulate positive and humorous conversation. What a difference it made! Shannon is a trusted and respected member of the Whittior faculty who inspires us all