Left to right: Superintendent Dr. David Hopson, Susan Rhoads, Avery Lavigueur, Gail Gingras, elementary Principal Megan Coburn and high school Principal Jason Finnie. (Photo submitted)
HUNTINGTON – Gail Gingras, Avery Lavigueur and Susan Rhoads received ‘Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Awards at a special dinner for area recipients held on April 25.
The three were selected from Gateway teachers who met the nomination criteria, which includes holding teacher certification; demonstrating professionalism through excellence in teaching practices, professional development, collaboration and cooperation; reaching above and beyond by doing community outreach outside of the classroom/school and doing formal and informal volunteer work; having the respect of peers, students and parents; and demonstrating enthusiasm in their position.
Gail Gingras joined the Littleville Elementary School staff in 2010 as a first grade teacher. She had taught for 21 years previously for Chicopee Public Schools. She also serves as the English Language Arts Curriculum Facilitator for the district, is a member of the Employee Wellness Committee, and is an instructor for Littleville’s after school mini courses. “I was overwhelmed when I found out that I received this award,” Gingras said. “It is a wonderful accomplishment to be recognized by the district for supporting the staff and students at Gateway.” Gingras holds a Bachelor’s degree in education from Westfield State University.
Avery Lavigueur joined the faculty of Gateway Regional High School in 2007, where she teaches art. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in art education from UMASS, Amherst and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in special education at American International College. “The best part of teaching is being with the students and helping them create something they are proud of,” said Lavigueur.
Susan Rhoads has been a Pre-School teacher at Littleville Elementary School since 2011. Before that, she taught for 17 years in the Granby Public Schools (16 of those in the integrated preschool program) and also worked for six years at the May Institute, specializing in working with children diagnosed with Autism. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Iowa State University in Growth and Development of Children, and a Master’s Degree in special education from Westfield State University. “The children are the best part of teaching,” Rhoads said. “They are so full of energy, creativity, humor and enthusiasm. I am always amazed at how much the preschoolers learn and change in 1-2 years.”
Each honoree received a financial award for themselves and for their classroom, an engraved plaque, tickets to the celebration dinner at the Log Cabin, citations from the Governor, and opportunities to participate in professional development and special events. All Gateway teachers and staff were invited to submit nominations, with the Gateway Leadership Team narrowing the field to the final recipients. In addition to last week’s dinner, the three will be honored by the Gateway Regional School Committee at their June 12th Staff Reception.
The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation underwrites the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Awards Program to honor area teachers for their tremendous impact on children and the community. Gateway is allowed to submit one new and two veteran teachers for the award.
