Teachers – wicked and awesome, inspirational too

Media Release
27 August 2007

Teachers – wicked and awesome but inspirational too

Students describe them as ‘wicked and awesome’, parents describe them as ‘enthusiastic and dedicated” – they are the teachers currently being nominated in the National Excellence in Teaching and Leadership Awards.

While the adjectives to describe them may differ, their uniting characteristic is that excellent teachers and leaders are ‘inspirational’people.

Convenor of the New Zealand Selection Panel, Brother Pat Lynch, says the nominations show the value and versatility of teachers.

“The positive impact teachers have on children is appreciated and valued by parents, with one parent saying how much his child’s work ethic has changed and how keen he is to achieve in class and also at home.

“The teacher who asked his class to: design a hen house; look after the hens; learn about egg production; and then make and sell egg sandwiches at school to raise funds for class trips, is an ideal example of versatility and imagination.

“We remember the teacher who made that all-important difference in our lives, it’s now time to acknowledge the teachers and leaders who are making a difference in the lives of your children”, said Pat Lynch.

Nominations for the 2007-08 round of the National Excellence in Teaching and Leadership are open until 28 September. Nomination forms can be completed online or forms can be downloaded from the NEiTA website www.neita.com. Forms are also available at schools and early childhood education centres nationwide, or can be obtained by contacting the NEiTA Foundation on 09 308 0576 or email mventer@asg.co.nz

The NEiTA awards are jointly sponsored by ASG Education Programs New ZealandTM, a not-for-profit organisation which operates trans-Tasman assisting parents to plan for their children’s future education, and Multiserve Education Trust, which for 18 years has provided a wide range of support services to schools and other education sector clients.

All teachers/leaders nominated receive a Certificate of Nomination, with 20 area representatives selected to go forward to receive Regional Awards for Teaching and Leadership in Wellington next May (2008). From these, ten teachers/leaders will receive National Awards at their schools or centres later next year.

All ten national awardees will receive professional development grants. Two $5,000 and three $2,500 grants each will be made for excellence in teaching and for excellence in leadership.

ENDS

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