Teacher of the Year

One of 12 teachers will be chosen Wednesday as the 2002 Douglas County teacher of the year.

The Douglas County Education Foundation will sponsor a luncheon starting at 11:30 a.m. It will be held at David Walley's Resort, located at 2001 Foothill Road in Genoa.

The nominees are their respective school's choice as teacher of the year.

Each candidate was describe in a letter of recommendation from the principals of their respective schools.

School's nominees and comments from their principal.

-- C.C. Meneley Elementary School: Sherrie Jackson, a sixth-grade teacher who oversees the school's drama club, co-sponsors the chorus, sponsors the school's poetry contest and serves as a mentor to other teachers.

-- Gardnerville Elementary School: Lee Miles, a second-grade teacher, a student advocate who "never gives up trying to reach each and every one."

-- Jacks Valley Elementary School: Susan Hoffman, a fifth and sixth grade teacher, has built a "community of learners that is truly outstanding" and "holds students to high expectations."

-- Minden Elementary School: Dawn Caldwell-Rothfusz is the first one "jump in" when there's a need, and can be depended on to do more than is expected.

-- Pi-on Hills Elementary School: Catherine Pellegrino, a "lifelong learner" who leads a demonstration class and will be a lead teacher during implementation of a new literacy program, also runs the school's annual food and clothing drives.

-- Scarselli Elementary School: Debra McNeil, makes learning "exciting, challenging interesting and fun." She is a "shining example of an exemplary teacher, staff member and community citizen."

-- Zephyr Cove Elementary School: Theresa Eymann, "exceptionally skilled and dedicated" in the latest literacy techniques and works well with "all" children, regardless of ability or background.

-- Carson Valley Middle School: Wendy Perra "can and will teach whatever is needed." She's the "type of teacher that all principals want to hire" and cares about students and their learning.

-- Kingsbury Middle School: Carly Kester, a school counselor, also teaches two classes and sponsors the National Junior Honor Society. She's earned the complete respect of students, staff and parents through enthusiasm, energy, a positive approach, innovative programs, creative skills, kindness, compassion and a strong work ethic.

-- Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School: Justin Pruett, who is "extremely successful in reaching both ends of the (student) spectrum." Pruett has a way of connecting with each student and learning what it is that makes each one successful.

-- George Whittell High School: Carey Haws, a special education teacher, has earned a reputation as an "excellent teacher who truly cares about everyone."

-- Douglas High School: Ernie Monfiletto, a U.S. History teacher, who is offensive coordinator for the football team, chairs the Social Studies department and advises the Block D club. Monfiletto works with "the toughest students, most academic students, athletes and all students who don't fit into either category."