A message of respect and dignity was delivered to the teachers and staff of Carson City-Crystal Area Schools on September 1 by educator Robert Stephenson, the 2009-2010 Michigan Teacher of the Year and a third-grade teacher in the Okemos school system.
“Treat each child with respect and dignity, accept each child with understanding, have faith in their abilities, help students learn to value themselves, value others, develop a love and enthusiasm for learning, and help them attain their full potential while striving for their personal goals,” said Stephenson during the first in-service day for local teachers.
The Carson City-Crystal Area Schools Foundation (CCCASF) sponsored Stephenson’s visit to Carson City. “I had heard Rob speak at the Governor’s Education Summit last March,” said CCCASF President Nancy Seals. “I was blown away by his passion, creativity, and innovative ways of teaching. Knowing that our school system is going through some of our own dynamic and exciting changes this year, I felt Rob could help motivate and excite our staff to keep their own passion and energy high as we make some big adjustments. I was not disappointed.”
Stephenson has 15 years of classroom experience, and was selected as Michigan Teacher of the Year out of 20 regional semifinalists in the state. He has a special passion for innovation and creativity, especially in the fields of science and engineering. During his presentation at CC-C, Stephenson gave several examples of how he has had success in his classroom teaching math, reading, science, engineering and technology. His approach encourages creative problem solving and teamwork, which allows for children to become involved in “hands on” activities that make learning enjoyable and exciting for them.
Stephenson’s enthusiasm and love for teaching were evident as he spoke to the CC-C staff. The presentation was well received, and contributed a “spark” to the excitement for the start of a new school year.
“Mr. Stephenson is an extraordinary speaker and showed how learning can be accomplished by all students,” said Seals. “Add that to the passion, creativity and drive of our own CC-C staff, and our school year will be the best ever. We can’t wait to get started.”
Pictured left to right, Carson City-Crystal Area Schools Board of Education Chairperson Tom Wilcox, guest speaker and 2009-2010 Michigan Teacher of the Year Robert Stephenson, and Carson City-Crystal Area Schools Foundation President Nancy Seals.