Teachers of the Year (TOY), headed to the district competition, received a plaque, golden apple and $200 check. The three teachers were Valerie Guree, elementary; Rebecca Habetz, middle; and Sullivan Fontenot, high school.
Guree has been in the classroom for 20 years. She has taught third and fourth graders in ELA, social studies and science. She also holds a library certification. She now teaches third and fourth grade science and one section of math intervention at Oberlin Elementary.
Guree’s colleague said she has an ability to connect with her students and fellow students enabling her to have a profound impact on everyone around her.
“She works diligently to create a classroom culture where her students can explore new ideas and grow to reach their fullest potential. Mrs. Guree is always willing to encourage and support others with a smile on her face.”
She was described as a natural leader by another colleague. “She is the thermostat in every room she walks into, and you cannot help but feel at ease, while striving to do your best. I admire how much she inspires all of the kids to love learning, and they know she genuinely cares… so they give 100 percent.”
Her principal, Billie Bruchhaus said she was a true asset to education because she serves a role model. “Her loving and compassionate nature meshes well with her desire to reach the whole child which in turn inspires students to strive for excellence. She has the ability to foster a positive and respectful environment while maintaining high expectations for herself and her students. Her impact will extend far beyond the classroom by leaving a lasting impression on the lives of those she teaches.”
Habetz has been teaching for 12 years. She has taught social studies, Spanish I, physical science, chemistry, English I and eighth grade ELA. She is certified in social studies, Spanish, general science, health and PE, English and mentor teaching.
One colleague wrote that “Becca is truly my partner here at Kinder Middle. I know that the Lord placed her here for me. She has taught me everything I know today. Coming in, I had no idea how to work Google Classroom, annotate a lesson, input grades, or even use the copy machine! I knew nothing! She never once complained about having to be my teacher. Becca not only helps me, but everyone at Kinder Middle School has benefited from her. She’s part of our ILT and gives great input. She knows how much work we have to put into our classroom but also sees where we can improve as a team. She always has great ideas that have a positive impact on us and the kids. She’s always coming up with new ways to accelerate all of the students and letting us know if they work.”
Her principal, Marcia Miller, wrote, “She is instrumental in so many ways. She helps lead teachers on the ILT committee and opens her classroom for other teachers to observe. She shares her ideas during PBIS and various meetings. She truly enjoys teaching and watching students grow. Students are eager to share their thoughts in her classroom where the atmosphere is both motivational and competitive. Her students absolutely love her.”
Fontenot is in his 31st year of teaching. He currently teaches ag science at Kinder High.
A colleague wrote, “I have had the privilege of working with Sullivan for the past 20 years. In these years, he has left a mark on the lives of countless students. His commitment to education and his genuine concern for his students go far beyond the typical duties of a teacher.”
As an educator, his college wrote, “His classroom is a place where students also learn about respect, responsibility, problem-solving and work ethics.
His impact extends into the lives of his students long after they have left the classroom. Many of his former students have maintained contact with him over the years, seeking his guidance and mentorship as they navigate the challenges of adulthood.”
His principal Melody Lafleur said she was honored to have one of the best eductors she has ever known in her school. She said his impact on students, teachers and community members was not measured.
“I am so proud to share how our Ag department is probably one of the best, if not the best, in the state. Mr. Fontenot has earned banners throughout his career for excelling in all areas in Ag, which is more challenging than most people realize. His students have won first place in state competitions on more occasions that I can state, and they have also won a national title in horse judging.
She went on to state how Fontenot works with students to teach them about interviews, appropriate dress, conducting themselves and speaking clearly and professionally.
In his introduction of all the candidates in the parish, Superintendent Brad Soileau said, “Teaching is the profession that effects students for the rest of their lives. No one can influence the life of a student like a teacher.”
Soileau also thanked the judges and teachers for the hard work. He said this program gives the parish the opportunity to “recognize our exceptional teacher’s daily instructional practices in order to prepare our students to become college and career ready.”
