VFW Post 4090 Honors “Teacher of the Year”

On Monday night March 12, VFW Post 4090 introduced their three “Teacher of the Year” recipients to the Portland Board of Education.

Before the introduction of each teacher, Commander Bill Almy stated to the board members that –

“Each year Post 4090 is given the opportunity to recognize and honor the top Elementary, Middle school, and high school teachers from our community.”

School superintendent Mr. Will Heath assisted commander Almy with the presentation. With board members, family and friends present, commander Almy introduced each honoree to the front of the room, where Superintendent Will Heath presented each with a VFW award plaque.

From the Oakwood Elementary School, Post 4090 selected Elizabeth Thelen, teacher of the year.

Elizabeth graduated Magna Cum Laude - form Marygrove College, with a Masters in the Art of Teaching. Received her Professional Educator Certification (K-8), with Emphasis in Child Development, reading, and science. For the past several years, she has continued her professional development by attending many training classes.

She has earned positive verbal/written feedback from parents regarding classroom instruction and student learning success.

From Portland Middle School, Post 4090 selected Angie Foote, teacher of the year.

Angie received her Bachelors of Arts from Michigan State University in 2000, and her Master’s degree in Educational Technology from MSU in 2007.

Angie has taught math, social studies and computers science, for sixth, seventh, and 8th grades. She was co-leader of student council, the school improvement team chair, the formative assessment team chair, and is on the building technology team. Angie Foote is a dedicated teacher that affects students beyond the classroom. She enjoys activities outside of the classroom such as school sporting events, band concerts, high school events, and many other events involving students.

Principal Kevin Robydek writes, “Ms. Foote has a great ability to work with students of various backgrounds and skill levels. She is outstanding in using instructional strategies that ensure all students can be successful in the classroom.”

From Portland High School, Post 4090 selected Mr. Mark Scheurer, teacher of the year.

Mark has been in the teaching profession for over twenty-one years. He has coached at high school level for about the same amount of time.

Mr. Scheurer received his Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University with a major in English and a minor in history.

He has taught English, history, current events, world affairs and mentored five student teachers.

Mark has been involved with high school coaching for over twenty years. He has held head basketball coaching jobs at Portland Saint Patrick’s and Portland High schools.

Mr. Scheurer has coordinated the VFW Voice of Democracy (VOD) at Portland High School for the past 23 years.

District 9 selected Mark Scheurer as their nominee for High School Teacher of the year. District 9 is the governing body for Post 4090 and 31 other posts within a six-county area.

After several photos were taken, commander Almy thanked the board of education for the opportunity to share the awards moment. Almy closed with the following statement, “We are very proud of each one of these teachers for their hard work, dedication and leadership. We are confident the future of our children is in good hands.”

Note: The VFW wants to identify and recognize America’s best educators who instill a sense of national pride in students. Techers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism are prime candidates. The Teacher of the Year nominee’s name is submitted to the Post by students, parents, fellow teachers, veterans, and members of the community.

All post finalist move on to district 9 competition. District winners will move on to state competition. From state level, the winners will move on to national competition where they can receive cash awards, commemorative plaques and all-expense paid trip to the VFW National Convention.

Photo from left to right, VFW Post Commander Bill Almy, Angie Foote, Elizabeth Thelen and Mark Scheurer.