PHILIPSBURG:--- As part of Basic Education and Literacy month, recognized by Rotary International during the month of September, the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset decided to focus on honoring teachers.
The members of the club conducted surprise appearances to 10 teachers around the island who exemplify, “Service Above Self.”
"Too often such teachers go unnoticed and we as a club wanted to award those who have made an enormous impact in the lives of their students through innovative teaching, advocates on the importance of basic education and literacy, assist colleagues in executing their respective roles and are community service minded," the club stated.
The respective school board or school management selected each teacher, who was gifted with a breakfast box, gift certificate from various vendors, jewelry, and a certificate of appreciation from the club.
The educators honored were;
Tr. Leonard Mussington, a teacher at École Hervé Williams, has been an educator for more than 30 years. He is one of the pillars of the École Nina Duverly, in Marigot, which was damaged due to the passing of hurricane Irma. Mr. Mussington has been an avid promoter for the use of English in the classroom and is a pioneer for bilingualism in and outside the classroom.
Tr. Joycelyne Hamlet-Fazer, a teacher at École Emile Choisy, has been an educator for more than 30 years on St. Martin. She is and always has been a dedicated and exemplary educator who has made it her duty to integrate St. Martin’s culture and the outside world in her lesson plans.
Tr. Rita Carty has been a dedicated and committed educator for more than 30 years at the Methodist Agogic Center (MAC). Amidst her past students is the current president and some members of The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset.
Tr. Naina Gianchandani has dedicated 25 years to teaching at the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School, and she continues to portray a love for teaching. She ensures that no student is left behind.
Tr. Marianne Tefft, an educator at the Montessori School, has been inspiring her students through literature and nurturing their writing skills. She made an emotional comment by stating, “Teachers do what we do because of the joy it brings us. It was a pleasure and surprise to be appreciated this way.”
Tr. Henneke Horjus has made an enormous impact in the lives of her students at the Caribbean International Academy (CIA) through innovative teaching and creating a positive learning environment.
Tr. Yvonne Kartoredjo was highlighted from the Hillside Christian School board for being an outstanding educator and inspiring her students with creative methods in the classroom.
Tr. Shaina Fernandes, a teacher at the St. Joseph school, was beyond surprised when she received the gifts of appreciation from the club. Although she is not currently teaching, the Catholic School Board selected her because of her commitment to education and support to all teachers at the school.
Tr. Uredise Stanford was chosen by the Seventh- Day Adventist School Board because of her overall dedication and commitment towards her students.
Tr. Januaira Leonard was recognized by the Division of Public Education as a hardworking teacher. School manager Mrs. Parotte, of the Oranje School, considers Tr. Leonard as her “right hand.”
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset would like to thank the School Boards and Management, Angelic Nails and Spa, Zhaveri Jewelers, Good Food and Mojitos, Addicted Hair Salon, Yummzy’s, Melange Bar and Grill, Chef B Cooking, I Love SXM Beach Bar, Exquisite Caters, Georgina’s Nails, BBOX, Always Enchanted, Different Shades by Altisha Pantophlet, Ambrosia Restaurant and Exquisite Designs and Decorations, for making the presentations possible.
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset would like to thank all educators for their continued hard work and years of service to our students and being the backbone of our educational system.
