by Larry Chowning –
Middlesex County Public Schools (MCPS) this month named Lisa Holman, Sharon Schwarzmann and Beth Barksdale as 2020-2021 teachers of the year finalists, each representing her individual school.
Middlesex Elementary School
Holman was named the Middlesex Elementary School (MES) teacher of the year. She has been a Special Education teacher at MES for the past five years. With 22 years in education she has been a general education teacher, a reading tutor and a reading specialist in other divisions.
Middlesex County Assistant Superintendent Tracy Seitz said that Holman believes when “students see their teacher has a love of learning, that learning is contagious.”
“Helping children build their self-esteem helps to build that desire to want to continue to learn,” said Dr. Seitz. “She prides herself in providing an environment that gives them the security and confidence to master skills.”
Holman said, “As teachers, we realize the importance of teaching the academic skills; however, a life-long learner realizes the necessity of building self-esteem in order for a child to be receptive to learning.”
St. Clare Walker Middle School
Schwarzmann joined the St. Clare Walker (SCW) team in 2019 after having already taught or been an administrator for 33 years. In addition, she also was a director of curriculum for a large preschool company.
As a Mathematics teacher, Schwarzmann understands the need to make lessons meaningful and realistic, said Dr. Seitz. She also believes it is critical for a teacher to develop positive relationships with students and by building relationships to create a mutual respect, trust and mentorship environment.
“Teaching is an art and Ms. Schwarzmann strives to always put her students first,” said Dr. Seitz.
“I strive to make each lesson memorable and relevant for students,” said Schwarzmann.
Middlesex High School
Barksdale is a Special Education teacher at Middlesex High School (MHS) and has served in that role for nine years. Prior to joining MCPS she was a first grade teacher for two years.
Dr. Seitz said “her philosophy of teaching is to work in tandem as a community vested toward the ultimate promotion of young adults who have a base knowledge, preparedness, and critical thinking that will enable them to be productive citizens.”
Dr. Seitz also said she understands that the learner-student relationship is one of trust, understanding and acceptance, and she promotes that relationship within her classroom.
“As an educator, I am aware of the importance of listening to students in order to understand and meet their needs,” said Barksdale.
One of these teachers will be selected to receive the MCPS School Teacher of the Year award.
