Distinguished Teachers

The following excerpts are from the nominating information submitted to the Lindback Foundation for the winning Philadelphia high school teachers. There is one winner for each school.

Christopher Aichele displays a sense of equity in all the roles he performs. This distinguished teacher of science and biology provides a challenging, rigorous learning environment for his students; expectations are high in his classroom. He also manages many of the school's volunteer and community involvement activities including the AIDS Day Walk, Philadelphia Cares Day and the Smile Train fund-raiser, making him indispensable to the students and staff.

Benjamin Aiken consistently demonstrates conscientiousness and commitment to the education of all children. As a result, he has a strong positive influence on the attitudes and teaching performance of other faculty members. This superb English educator makes innovation happen. He has guided the school's start-up wrestling team to be strong and competitive, and is a force behind the creation of the school's new Saturday academic enrichment program.

Muriel Alston-Moseley diligently grounds her life skills students in academic and practical preparation for functioning in mainstream society and in independent living. She not only works closely with each student as a learning support teacher, she also involves parents and caretakers in their children's development. Through her tireless efforts, Fels' life skills students discover that they are contributing members of their high school "community."

Avi Barr combines kindness and competence as a math teacher, leader and department head. He makes great efforts to help everyone in the department do their best work every day. This excellent teacher uses both humor and competence to interact with math faculty members - day-to-day and in professional development sessions. Students respect his caring and teaching skills; it is clear from the way they address him.

Brandy Barrett gives to her students, not only in the classroom where she teaches English but also by her support for many extra-curricular activities. Whether serving as junior/senior class sponsor, supervisor of graduation speeches, yearbook sponsor or student handbook coordinator, she enables students to fully participate in the high school experience. As a trusted adviser, students often turn to this compassionate professional as they grapple with personal problems.

Lorraine Battle is both inspirational and humble. A counselor, she sets the pace for the workload and pressures that all of the faculty members bear, creating a serene working environment to envelope both herself and them. She demonstrates exceptional skill with assignments for homebound students and with advising classroom teachers on how to support the progress of these young men and women.

Nancy Bellew is a seasoned math teacher whose belief in children and whose personal skills and knowledge make her a leader on her school's staff. She effectively pairs younger math students with upperclassmen and women. This mentoring relationship both provides support for the younger learners and also gives all of the students a framework to communicate and exchange ideas.

Marc Brasof's goal for his students is that they fall in love with history. This educational innovator seizes every opportunity to make classes and student projects lively and thought-provoking. He has created a program to support student-driven documentaries. As a result, 15 of his students prepared and taped a discussion with three U.S. Supreme Court justices about freedom of speech in schools.

Zachary Chase's work in his English classroom teaches students to find their voices in a myriad of forms, whether in podcasts or more traditional means of communication. From the works of Zora Neale Hurston to the contemporary "Freedom Writers," his students learn to investigate and tell the stories of those who came before them, and to create action plans to affect change today.

William Clouthier has taught English to thousands of students since 1975. However, his work at Frankford fulfills a dream of having the opportunity to teach at the secondary school level. He is knowledgeable and passionate about what he teaches, dedicated, energetic and creative in the way that he delivers classroom instruction, and possessed of a teaching style that makes the learning environment enjoyable and positive.

Amy Cohen is constantly seeking ways to make history relatable and enjoyable for students. Her free flowing platform for discussion and critical thinking allows student to explore history in such a way that is challenging yet enjoyable. Having received many accolades as a noted historian, she continues to deliver stellar service to her students in her 16 years of service.

William Cohen is recognized as an exemplary English teacher. He has dedicated himself to serving Philadelphia's public school students for six years and is described by his colleagues and students as attentive, committed and energetic. He is known for engaging his students through lively presentations and discussions, and for inspiring them to do their best work at all times.

Kelly Cooper proudly wears many hats as a math teacher. Not only does she teach Algebra II, she coordinates SAT Prep courses, facilitates PSSA testing and assists in Saturday AP statistics courses. She is known by her colleagues to always display a high degree of integrity, responsibility, and ambition. She performs beyond the call of duty and does so with contagious energy that she passes on to her colleagues and students.

If success were measured by affection alone, Frances Daly would be counted as the best. She has demonstrated repeatedly that she is a talented and dedicated teacher. She spends countless hours planning and preparing meaningful, authentic lessons that enable her students in AP literature and English to understand what can sometimes be obscure and complex. She looks for ways that her students will be able to connect to learning.

A dedicated professional at the Girard Academic Music Program for the past 28 years, Diane Dannenfelser shows genuine concern for the welfare of her students as she continues to promote a curriculum of musical rigor and high expectations. As a teacher of Honors music theory, she prepares her students for successful experiences in collegiate-level music classes.

Latifa David is a no-nonsense, back-to-basics English teacher. She believes in establishing a classroom routine that helps students to be stable and productive. She encourages students to make an effort and will not tolerate excuses. She tells students about the obstacles that they have to overcome to be successful and demonstrates on a daily basis that anything is possible with hard work and determination.

As a teacher of history, Rachel Davis-King is open to new ideas and brings an intellectual curiosity to all encounters with technology. She encourages her students to become creative in presenting what they learn. She actively engages students and creates a positive environment in her classes for all academic levels. She inspires students to get involved in issues of peace and social justice, civil rights, aging, homelessness and the Holocaust.

Ivan Dizengoff endeavors to encourage students to develop their physical and social skills as well as their minds. As a computer science teacher, he aims to make his classes and the school a place where students are actively engaged in educational activities that are relevant and fun. He brought music to Douglas by establishing an after-school music club. For several years, he accompanied students on Outward Bound wilderness trips.

Jeffrey Evans has made a lasting impression on the staff and students at the Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush High School in such a short time. Having only been a graphic arts teacher for one year, he is humbled by the accolades he receives from his colleagues and students. He is committed to helping students express themselves through art, technology and modern design.

Christine Garvey's ultimate goal as an educator is to shape lifelong productive learners. She captivates her students by intricately infusing literature, art and music into learning. As an English teacher of 11 years, she constantly challenges her students to become critical thinkers and insightful writers. She invests greatly in providing superior support to her students.

Marian Geiger has taught at Central High School for more than 15 years and was named the English Department chair in 2000. In addition to working effectively with students and teachers, Marian spends hours with parents. She is always available to help, working after hours in many school activities such as the coaching students to compete in various oratorical contests.

Neil Geyette is an outstanding Social Studies teacher who has been instrumental in forming the new Urban Studies Academy at West Philadelphia High School. He has worked diligently to ensure that the academy extremely hard to ensure that the Urban Studies Academy offers a unique experience for students to develop leadership skills and a deeper understanding of civic responsibility and community empowerment.

Maritza Gonzalez is an extremely positive presence as a world language teacher. She is a model of dignity, respectfulness, camaraderie and integrity. Affectionately called "Mrs. G" by her students, she is known for showing great empathy for her students as they face hardships, while at the same time never allowing for excuses when it comes to each student's capacity for doing their very best.

Michael Halko, English teacher, is admired not only for his knowledge and skills but also for his commitment to his students. He spends his lunch periods working with students and joining in an array of student activities ranging from editing the yearbook to announcing football games.

Edward Hampton, a Junior ROTC instructor, is a role model for his colleagues as well as for his students. He volunteered to take over the physical education classes from a fellow teacher deployed to active duty. He's always a leader, working after hours on activities including color guard, citizenship, and flag detail.

Donna Bassler-Hart's students say that she never gives up on them and tries her best to help every student be the best they can be. She has had to work to overcome physical handicaps and is respected for being an excellent and dedicated English teacher. She finds exciting ways to help her students channel their emotions into creative writing. She was a leader in developing the school's annual Poetry Open Mic event and Playwright's Festival.

Robert Herbstritt has a passion for teaching biology and is known for making his lessons vivid and enjoyable for his students. He has infused in his instruction, a sense of his own deep fascination with biology and the world. He spends many hours working with students in small groups after school and finds time to coach cross country running and track.

Laura Jacklin plays a critical role at the school, in and out of the classroom. She allows her English students the freedom to learn in the style that suits them best and instills in them the discipline they need to develop lifelong skills to succeed. On Saturdays she works with the Rising Stars organization, which helps basketball players develop their academic skills.

Karen James is a superb educator serving as the school's testing coordinator, lead English teacher and National Honor Society sponsor. She has an enthusiasm for educating young minds that was recently demonstrated when she organized a class excursion to Washington, accompanying 32 students for three days. She has worked with colleagues, parents and the community to provide the best possible learning environment for her students.

Karl Janowitz is described by his colleagues as a passionate, caring and unassuming math and anthropology teacher. He is particularly praised for his work with ESL (English as a Second Language) students. With more than 30 years experience in teaching, Janowitz encourages his students to meet difficult academic challenges and also to participate in extracurricular activities that broaden their horizons. After school hours, he organizes and attends student trips to cultural events including ballet and opera performances and poetry readings.

John Kalicki has taught mathematics and computer science for 23 years and his enthusiasm and energy has never waned. He exhibits excellent people skills and regardless of the challenges, he is patient, calm and positive. He is reliable, fair and flexible and is always willing to assist students and colleagues long after the final bell has rung.

Lynn Keiner pours her heart and soul into Northeast High School students. As English Department chairperson, she is committed to a high standard of excellence that inspires students, parents and faculty. Above and beyond her job description, she organizes many major events including a "sleepover" for students who spend the night preparing for state tests.

Earl Koger has serviced Furness High School as a math teacher for more than 20 years and has done so in an exemplary manor. He has an excellent relationship with staff and students. He is always willing to stay afterschool to tutor students or to volunteer his services to a teacher in need of help. He is a father figure and a source of guidance, and inspiration and friendship.

Robin Lane exhibits compassion, self-sacrifice and commitment to the betterment of her students. She has established a reputation for being fair, loving, but firm. As an art teacher, she has exposed her students to art history and the love of museums. Her students say they are amazed at their own abilities and their love and appreciation for the arts.

Hyeseon (Judy) Lee appears to live for teaching math. She is always available for her students, tutoring them through lunch, prep, and after school. She works to help students understand the content and also build their work ethic. She strives to make the material she teaches relevant to the lives of her students.

Shavonne McMillan has been assisting the faculty and students of Simon Gratz High School for 31/2 years while progressively perfecting her craft. As an English teacher, she focuses on the teaching of literacy, character, and diplomacy. During her tenure at Gratz, she has fostered critical relationships with her students by setting high standards and requiring that they be met. Her door is always open for parents, students and faculty.

Robert Miller works closely with students, integrating education, discipline and sports into his work as a physical education teacher. His spirit and enthusiasm has a positive effect on everyone who comes in contact with him. All students eventually interact with him whether in class, lunchroom, or athletic programs. He demonstrates that he wants for his students what he would want for his own children.

Melisa Mills has been an outstanding English teacher for the past nine years. She is a mentor by nature for both students and staff. She takes the time to make sure that every student knows what is expected of them and what needs to be done. She sets high expectations for all of her students regardless of their disability or deficiency. She works every day to help students build character.

Edwin Miranda is exemplary in his devotion to students. His contributions to the school are surpassed only by his dedication to the well-being of students and their families. His classroom teaching in Spanish is passionate and interactive. He demonstrates excellence at promoting learning at the highest levels.

Dorina Morrow is described as dedicated, gifted, compassionate and a true Renaissance woman. She is the kind of person who not only inspires students to excel but challenges and motivates her co-workers as well. Her students know her to be a teacher who will never settle for mediocrity and who demands that they give their very best.

Barbara Mosley's experience and knowledge on the art of teaching makes her strong, and serves as a role model for students and staff. She treats her students as she would treat her own. As an art teacher, she holds high expectations and expects her students to attain their goals. Even after her students graduate, they return for assistance and guidance.

James Murphy has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a dedication to his students' success. He is a highly dedicated English teacher who knows how to motivate his students to strive for excellence. Outside of the classroom, he's the assistant athletic director.

Audrey Nock's experience and expertise in the area of technology has brought about the introduction of cutting-edge technology curriculum. Through the supervising of a Character Education Grant, she has given her students the opportunity to "give back" through service learning. She also supervises an after-school technology club, helping students acquire and build technology skills.

Johannes Ogajo is a 17-year teaching veteran, with seven of those years in service to Philadelphia's public schools. As a teacher of mathematics, statistics and actuarial science, she has made her mark as a no-nonsense but deeply caring and compassionate educator.

Brett Olson is respected by staff and students for his willing nature and uplifting spirit. He pushes students academically by engaging them in lively debates and discourses on a college level. Students know they can go to him with problems because he will listen and guide them. Motivation has become a better school because of his presence.

Kathleen Petrelli came to teaching from private industry, becoming a technology teacher. She helps her students prepare for both careers and college in the 21st century. The assistance she provides to staff members has enabled Swenson's faculty to create a seamless network of technology-based instruction.

Deborah Reese is an exemplary business/office technology teacher. She also reinstituted the school's internship program linking technology students with related businesses, and collaborates with many partners to provide a broad range of work-based learning experiences. Activities such as Shadowing Day, Techies Day, and Take Your Children to Work Day all are successful endeavors at FLC, thanks to her energy and leadership.

Jason Richardson is his school's technology leader and a member of the staff team that supports professional development in the areas of collaboration and improving student-staff relations. Richardson is head coach for the girls' basketball team and also is a key adviser to the school's journalism and broadcast programs, assisting students with the development of podcasts to improve communication within the school.

Elaine Roseman believes that educational excellence is attainable at any level. As an English teacher of 33 years, she understands how her students learn and strives to build connections from their own experience to the working world. She is committed to helping her students learn a love of learning and to make education relevant and important for every student she reaches.

Barbara Roth is revered by the school's students, faculty and staff of Widener. She engages her English Language Arts students as she creates an environment where learning is enjoyable and students are both respected and empowered to excel. She serves as a mentor and confidant to the students and families of the Widener community. Her 30 years of service demonstrate her commitment to education.

Anthony Rowe is a seasoned welding technology teacher of eight years. He truly believes in his students. His credo is: "Teachers not only make a difference in our children's lives, but we help change them." His devotion to his students and his craft is further exhibited in his open door policy and as he extends himself around the clock to his students.

Renae Rutherford Lowe is a dedicated and enthusiastic teacher who cares about her students and their educations. She uses her professional talents to affect and challenge the public education system to respond to emerging correctional educational issues for juvenile inmate learners and brings about innovative programs that improve the quality of teaching and learning. As a literacy teacher, she has demonstrated excellence in promoting learning and character development at the highest levels.

Denise Sargent is an educator for over 30 years who has positively touched the lives of thousands of history students. Her students are often engaged in passionate discussions about current events or are listening closely as she shares with her pupils historical happenings that she witnessed in her lifetime.

Naomi Schoolfield has demonstrated dedication and devotion to her math students. She instills morals, values, and a mindset to never give up. She is committed to providing the best instructional and support services to encourage her students to succeed. She brings a ray of sunlight to her classroom every day with content-related posters and informational assessments, along with her bright smile.

As a special education teacher, Erin Smith is remarkably energetic, talented, knowledgeable, and dedicated. She does nothing half-heartedly, always giving of herself. She is deeply invested in the success of each of her students, and seeks opportunities to enrich their lives through both academics and leadership opportunities. She is rarely alone in her office, but rather surrounded by a host of students and colleagues seeking assistance, advice or encouragement.

Jennifer Speirs is an extraordinary individual and educator who is more than worthy of receiving this prestigious award. As institute coordinator for urban education, she naturally motivates students to learn, explore and maximize their spirit of inquiry and critical thinking. She takes a personal interest in her students and works to help them reach their academic potential.

Joanna Stone is an enthusiastic math teacher who is not only dedicated to her students, but also her colleagues. She is well-respected by her peers and is willing and able to be part of any team that will help improve her school. As an educator she exceeds expectations and goes beyond the classroom to improve the lives of her students at Fitzsimons.

Molly Thacker is an English teacher who has high expectations for her students because she knows they can do it. She believes in her students' ability to succeed and that learning is a huge reward in itself. She is a fine example of a dedicated teacher. She employs wisdom and resources to benefit all students at Olney High School East.

Jennilyn Thiboult is a high-energy self-starter who quickly assumes responsibility and is not afraid to face new challenges and situations. She has a sparkling and engaging personality, spreading enthusiasm for literature and writing in her English classes. She has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and students.

Patricia Walder has achieved a 95 percent student success rate while serving as her school's program coordinator for information technology. Her ability to motivate her students and encourage them to pursue technology careers is undeniable. She is a mentor to her students and respected colleague among her peers. The cooperation she receives from her students is indicative of the respect and appreciation that everyone has for her.

Sydney Warren is a patient, thoughtful, and caring Learning Support teacher who strives to engage students in achieving at their highest levels. She presents a gentle, warm and nurturing aspect to her teaching style. She has such an impact on our students that you often see them giving her a hug or calling her "Mom."

Eric Weingarten is devoted to differentiating instruction so that all students may learn at any level. Extracting interest and intelligence from his students is a must-do. His six years of double duty as an English and drama teacher proves his devotion to both his crafts. Students and colleagues alike follow the model of passion and ambition that he embodies.

Kristin Williams-Smiley is supportive of her student's dreams and goals and equips them with the tools necessary to achieve. As the Math and Science Leader, she ensures classrooms are conducive to positive and supportive learning. She utilizes various teaching strategies that address the learning style of all students and believes all students are capable of learning.

Beverly Yancey-Thomas has provided stellar instruction to the Emotional Support students in her charge for nearly 30 years. Thanks to her, Bartram has been cited by the state as a model school for Special Education compliance and implementation. She has an unfaltering belief in the potential of all students and holds her students to the highest expectations.