Teacher of the Week Jill Pecoraro
January 24th, 2008, 4:10 am Hobby Shops
Age: 42.
Reason for becoming a teacher: During the summer of my seventh-grade year, I volunteered at a preschool. I was drawn to the students with exceptional needs and really enjoyed finding ways to help them interact socially and learn basic skills. This interest led to my career as a special educator.
Greatest moment as a teacher: One of my students made a gain of three levels on the reading portion of the FCAT last year.
Most embarrassing moment as a teacher: A student locked himself in a bathroom stall, refusing to come out. I ended up having to crawl under the door to get to him. As I tried to stand up, I hit my head on the toilet paper holder. This sent the toilet paper rolling across the floor. The student and I had a pretty good laugh, breaking the tension and eventually leading to a resolution.
Favorite aspects of being a teacher: Daily interactions and observations of my students. I love watching how different students think, grasp new ideas and solve challenging problems.
Least favorite part of teaching: Feeling like there is not enough time with my students. The school day should be longer.
Favorite hobbies: Jigsaw puzzles, reading and scrapbooking.
Family: Husband, John, and son, Joseph.
Full-time public and private school teachers in Seminole County are eligible for nomination. Nominators can be students or their parents, school staffers and friends, but not family members of the teacher. Information needed is the nominator’s name, phone number, the teacher’s name, school, grade they teach and a brief reason for their nomination. Nominations are limited to the first 40 received. To nominate a teacher, e-mail Tammie Wersinger at twersinger@orlandosentinel.com.
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