Honoring teachers everywhere

Optimist Clubs are known for recognizing children. Aside from parents, no one has more of an impact on children than their teachers. That is why the Optimist Club of Newark, California decided to honor teachers everywhere at the club meeting on Tuesday, May 17, 2011.

The presentation, led by President-elect Russ Blowers and Teacher of the Year event chairperson Denise Fullerton, began with club members sharing memories of their favorite teachers.  Members discussed how they remembered different history, math, English, and literature teachers, but the most important part of the memory was how they helped each individual overcome shyness, make friends, and lead.

What a wonderful lead-in to the main event where Milani Elementary School Principal Dr. Le Kimbre Brown enthusiastically praised the honorees, her fellow staff members, Yoon Chi and Janine Friend.

Yoon Chi was named Teacher of the Year for making a lasting impression on her students and being a staff leader.

Janine Friend was named Classified Employee of the Year for being the "ultimate nurturer" to students in the school's resource center.

Yoon Chi, Le Kimbre Brown, and Janine Friend

The honorees received flowers, gift certificates and praise from the Newark Optimist Club and Dr. Brown accepted a Staples gift certificate for the school in honor of the faculty and staff achievements.

Thanks to The Informer newsletter editor Marla Blowers for the story and pictures.