Honor an Educator Awards

Teacher, Edison Elementary, Anaheim

Robin Barry, along with Lesley Zorola (also honored), has established an exemplary Learning Academy at Edison Elementary School. The Academy serves students who face reading and learning challenges. The program has served hundreds of children, both during and after school, and has served as a model for similar programs throughout the county and for graduate students in the MS Reading Program at CSUF. Robin is being honored for the professional commitment and caring she demonstrates that allows her to be a change agent, making a dramatic difference in the lives of students at Edison Elementary on a daily basis.

Dr. Ula Manzo and Kathryn Bartle-Angus
Faculty - Reading Department –College of Education
CSUF

Crawford, Dr. Teresa

Professor, Elementary and Bilingual Education, College of Education at CSUF

Teresa Crawford is the 2010 College of Education Distinguished Faculty Member. Throughout Dr. Crawford’s career as a professor in the Department of Elementary and Bilingual Education in the College of Education at CSUF, she has earned awards for her teaching, scholarship and service. Her expertise is recognized at state, national, and international levels. Dr. Crawford’s students value her availability, timely feedback, preparedness, and personal care and concern for their growth as teachers. Serving as the College Assessment Coordinator, Dr. Crawford’s work significantly impacted and was vastly responsible for the success of our 2007 accreditation by NCATE and CTC. As Director of the College of Education’s SchoolsFirst Center for Creativity and Critical Thinking in Schools, Dr. Crawford has established a professional development model for promoting creativity and critical thinking through the arts, science, math, and technology. Dr. Crawford is a highly respected faculty member and colleague within the College of Education; she is approachable, collaborative, supporting and dedicated to the teaching profession.

Dr. Claire Cavallaro
Dean, College of Education
CSUF

Eschner, Lauralyn

Coordinator of Visual & Performing Arts, Fullerton School District

You will not find a more passionate or determined advocate for arts education in Fullerton than I have been blessed to find in Lauralyn Eschner. After serving as both a classroom and arts resource teacher, Lauralyn transitioned to the district office. In doing so, countless students have benefited from her unwavering belief that students have a fundamental right to a meaningful arts education. In her capacity as Coordinator of Visual and Performing Arts for the Fullerton School District, Lauralyn wholeheartedly assumes a wealth of responsibilities. Primarily, she coordinates the implementation of the unique and award winning All the Arts for All the Kids program. The program brings professional artists into the classroom to teach a series of lessons in music, dance, art and theater to the more than 10,000 students in the Fullerton School District. In addition, Lauralyn oversees the district’s phenomenal elementary and junior high instrumental and vocal music programs. Combined with her roles as community liaison, professional development leader, and fundraiser extraordinaire and it's apparent that Lauralyn exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond the call of duty. Those who meet and work with Lauralyn cannot help but be touched by her generous spirit and warm heart. Thank you, Lauralyn, for the positive impact you have made, and will continue to make, in the lives of our students.

Holly Steele
Middle School Science Teacher, Fullerton Unified School District
Fullerton, CA

Guillaume M., Dr. Andrea

Professor, Department of Elementary and Bilingual Education, California State University, Fullerton

Dr. Andrea M. Guillaume has inspired Block 1 (2009-2010) to create engaging lessons, integrate science and math all throughout curriculum, and to believe that we are all scientists. Thank you, Dr. Guillaume for being passionate about education and creating enthusiastic teachers. Without you it would not have been possible.

Block #1 (2009-10)
Multiple Subject Credential Students - College of Education
CSUF

Hopper, Jane

Retired

Any person having Jane Hopper as an instructor is a lucky student, indeed. As an educator in the field of reading, writing, and study skills, Jane easily transmitted her enthusiasm for the English language to her students. She captured their attention and trained them well in the intricacies and mechanics of English through her innovative design and delivery of content. Students gained confidence and enjoyment in their academic studies because Jane trained them well in study skills and disciplined learning. At the same time, she was a humorous, but determined, task master and elicited the very best from students, even those that were “reluctant learners.”

Dr. Ann Coil
Alumna, CSUF College of Education

Hudson, Dr. Toni

Retired: East Whittier City School Dist. Asst. Superintendent of Student Services

Toni is honored for a life time of service to education. She served as Director of Student Services in Ontario-Montclair and literally made special education and safe schools history in East Whittier. Toni created a safe haven for students with disabilities and their families, mediated to the advantage of both the families and the district, and nurtured her teachers, paraprofessionals and specialists. She treated all with respect and dignity and provided training and staff development for them. She created innovative programs for the students and gave the district, through Safe and Drug free schools, licensed counselors for every school. Toni made deep, systemic changes for the greater good during her tenure. Even into retirement she supervised student teachers for the department of special education at Cal State Fullerton and served as a consultant for LACOE. Thank you Toni for a lifetime of dedicated service to special education.

Dr. Judy Smith
Faculty – Special Education –College of Education
CSUF

Kile, Ryan

Dept. of Mathematics, Anaheim High School

Mr. Kile has taught all levels of mathematics at Anaheim High School, and is an inspirational teacher and leader. He has served as a departmental leader and master teacher, and is active in recruiting and developing his students to participate in STEM careers.

CSUF College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics/Martin Bonsangue

Kominsky, Erin

Principal, Weaver Elementary School, Los Alamitos, CA

Erin Kominisky is the most committed school principal and educator we have ever met. She refuses to accept anything less than 100% from herself, teachers and students. She demands that any program the school uses makes children inquire, think, question and create. She was the first principal to bring CGI (Cognitive Guided Instruction) to an OC school and persuaded the OC Dept of Ed to teach CGI to teachers so other schools could adopt the program.

Erin is also one of the pioneer's of the Mind Institute Math + Music program...and demands that music be a part of Weaver's school day. She is very supportive of helping other schools as they incorporate the CGI and Mind programs. I can't think of anyone I know in education more dedicated to creative learning than Erin. As a result of Erin's hard and dedicated work, Weaver Elementary has been one of the 5 highest tested schools for at least the last 5+ years. I can't say enough great things about Erin and what she has done for the children of Weaver Elementary and Education in general.

Samuel Goldstein and Joel Slutzky

Laird, Sandy

(Honored posthumously)

Sandy significantly impacted my life and the expectations I would place upon my own future students. Sandy was my master teacher during my second semester of student teaching. At the time, she was teaching a 5th/6th GATE combination class. Revered by her students and fellow teachers, Sandy set high expectations for all of her students and provided the support and encouragement needed for her students to reach their highest potential. Her classroom was dynamic and interactive, inspired by her enthusiasm, creativity, and love for learning. Critical thinking and problem-solving were integral to everything the students accomplished. I still recall her laughter, smile, and high energy. I know she had an incredible impact on those fortunate enough to be in her classroom. I was one of them. Although I was with Sandy for a relatively brief time, the inspiration, guidance, and confidence she provided still runs through me. Thanks, Sandy. You made a difference for which I cannot thank you enough. Thanks for believing in me.

Dr. Karen Ivers
Dean, College of Education
CSUF

Lapham, Sandra

Director, Educational Technology, Media and Intervention Services

Sandra Lapham is the administrative lead for the District Assistance and Intervention Teams (DAIT) and School Assistance and Intervention Teams (SAIT). She works directly with schools and districts in federal and state corrective action. In this capacity she exhibits a strong understanding of the social and cultural realities of the districts and schools, treats people with enormous respect, and has had profound influence in turning around these low performing schools/districts. She is also responsible for developing the National Center for Cultural Proficiency in partnership with Randy and Delores Lindsey (co-authors of Cultural Proficiency Coaching) and has organized and provided institutes to develop cultural awareness.
Sandra is an expert in teaching with technology. Her influence is felt in so many classrooms across Orange County. Sandra is a leader who continues to learn and to build the capacity of those she serves. She is influential, inspirational and well-respected among her team of district technology leaders across the county. Sandra is an awesome educator.

Linda MacDonell, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent, Instructional Services
Orange County Department of Education

Lovett, Gena

Lecturer, Reading Department, CSUF

Ms. Gena Lovett has worked tirelessly to enrich the livs of undergraduate and graduate students within Orange County both at CSU Fullerton and many local community colleges. In the undergraduate arena, she has assisted students with the development of their critical thinking skills and dispositions along with essential academic reading and learning strategies so that they will achieve their academic and professional goals. At the graduate level, Ms. Lovett has assisted students in the graduate reading program as they develop the skills and attitudes necessary to contribute to the educational environments in which they work. Gena continues to serve the graduate students by being active in the Reading Department alumni organization "Reading Educators Guild." Gena has taken a leadership role in this organization and has been recognized by the University as "Volunteer of the Year" for her work in REG. We especially commend Ms. Lovett for her commitment, energy and expertise in providing new directions with assessment methodology in the Postsecondary Reading and Learning Certificate program for professionals throughout the country.

Dr. JoAnn Carter-Wells and JoAnne Greenbaum
Faculty - Reading Department –College of Education
CSUF

Michalski, Zita

Elementary teacher; Fullerton School District

Zita's instruction encourages all students to excel in their studies and personal lives. Her expertise in all content areas is evidenced as her students are finalists each year in the DAR essay and Math Field Day competitions. Her sense of humor and caring develops many long lasting contacts with students and families with whom she has worked.

Kay Krausman
Alumna, CSUF College of Education

Mohr, Barbara

Elementary teacher; Fullerton School District

Barbara challenges each student to achieve their greatest potential in academics, leadership, and personal goals. Barbara is a mentor to students and peers. She presents inservices in the area of fine arts and problem solving. Always positive in her words and actions, Barbara exemplifies the best our teaching profession has to offer.

Kay Krausman
Alumna, CSUF College of Education

Moore, Eric

Instructor & Tiger Woods Learning Center

Eric Moore has been an instructor at the Tiger Woods Learning Center for the past 2.5 years. In addition to creating and implementing new classes for the organization, Eric also coordinates the Summer Career Exploration Program for junior high and high school students. As the coordinator he is responsible for determining class offerings, scheduling and lesson planning, student application and registration and the day-to-day logistics once the programs begins. He is also actively involved in the Orange County â?" College Access Network where he leads student workshops and presents to parents on college related topics. Eric truly believes it is important to give back to the community. He has coordinated a number of service learning projects for TWLC members, families, staff and volunteers. He is a role model that demonstrates the value of having an active role in giving back to the community. His enthusiasm, dedication and passion to youth and education are present in all he does.

Dr. Kathryn Bihr
Director, Tiger Woods Learning Center
Anaheim, CA

Morgan, Lori

Retired principal, Orange U.S.D.

Lori Morgan graduated from San Diego State Univ. and taught in the San Diego City Schools where she was a classroom teacher, demonstration teacher, in-school resource teacher, and district resource teacher. She also taught classes at San Diego State University. After moving to Orange County she worked for Orange Unified School District where she was a classroom teacher, Title I Resource Teacher, Miller-Unruh Reading Specialist, Vice-Principal, and Principal. While she was a Reading Recovery Teacher Lori wrote predictable books for children and one is still in print. She served as president of both the Orange County Reading Association and the California Reading Association (CRA). She was the local arrangements chair for the International Reading Association (IRA), chaired the IRA Literature for Adolescents Committee, and was the IRA State Coordinator for CA. She was on the writing team for one of the CA State Frameworks in Reading/Language Arts and received numerous awards including "Outstanding Administrator of the Year," "Outstanding Contribution to Reading in Orange County," and the "John Martin Distinguished Service Award to CRA." There is little doubt that Lori Morgan’s induction into the California Reading Hall of Fame was an honor well earned.

Dr. Ash and Sue Bishop
Emeritus, CSUF

Murphy, Mrs. Kathy

Lecturer, Department of Elementary and Bilingual Education, California State University, Fullerton

Mrs. Kathy Murphy has inspired Block 1 (2009-2010) to integrate a balanced literacy program in all areas of curriculum, create effective and memorable literacy lessons, and to pass the RICA. Thank you, Mrs. Murphy for being passionate about education and creating enthusiastic teachers. Without you it would not have been possible.

Block #1 (2009-10)
Multiple Subject Credential Students - College of Education
CSUF

Ponder, Dr. Jennifer

Assistant Professor, Department of Elementary and Bilingual Education, California State University, Fullerton

Dr. Jennifer Ponder has inspired Block 1 (2009-2010) to fight for social justice, integrate art into curriculum, and to keep jeans away from schools at all times. Thank you, Dr. Ponder for being passionate about education and creating enthusiastic teachers. Without you it would not have been possible.

Block #1 (2009-10)
Multiple Subject Credential Students - College of Education
CSUF

Pullen, Rick

Dean, College of Communications, Cal State Fullerton

Dean Rick Pullen is my dad who has been my role model as an educator for as long as I can remember! His guidance, insight and mentorship have been an invaluable part of my development. It was a true honor to join him as a CSUF faculty member in 2002. When he retires in May, the university will feel a great loss! I love you, Dad!

Dr. Melinda Pierson
Faculty – Special Education –College of Education
CSUF

Robertson, Elizabeth

CSUF University Extended Education/OLLI

Thousands of older adults have benefited from Betty Robertson’s vision and dedication. As Director of Community Programs for CSUF Extended Education, Betty had the foresight and the leadership to set in motion the creation of Continuing Learning Experience (CLE). In 1979, she secured a grant to launch a specialized, self-support education program to serve older adults. Betty’s ability to successfully bring together ideas and people was critical in the creation of an organization where members define their own organization, develop classes and teach them. Today, this successful endeavor is know as Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) and has grown to more than 1,000 members. On her retirement in 1988, Betty became an official member of this ground-breaking organization and was active in the development of computer education classes.

Dr. Harry Norman
Dean, University Extended Education
CSUF

Rodriguez, Fernando

Dept. of Mathematics, Buena Park High School

Mr. Rodriguez is not only a mathematics teacher at Buena Park High School; he is a master teacher, community leader, and role model. Fernando was recently featured in the CSU movie on becoming a mathematics teacher in CA, and has participated in several grant projects with CSUF, including the TASEL-M NSF grant with Dr. David Pagni.

CSUF College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics/Martin Bonsangue

Schlegel, Clarence

(Honored posthumously)

Mr. Schlegel was my English teacher in my sophomore and senior years at Verdugo Hills High School (LAUSD). His passion for his subject and his ability to make it truly come alive for even the most recalcitrant of learners had a lasting impact on every student privileged to be in his classroom. On top of that, he truly liked his students and stood ready in every way to facilitate their success - as long as they did their part! At a recent high school reunion, his name was mentioned over and over again as one of the teachers who had most impacted our lives during those formative years – a wonderful legacy, indeed.

Bobbee Cline
Director of Development, College of Education
CSUF

Tong, David

Instructor & Tiger Woods Learning Center

David Tong has been an instructor at the Tiger Woods Learning Center Orange County for the past year and half. Some of his accomplishments have included creating and implementing new classes such as Video Game Design and Intro to Hip Hop, coordinating Family Nights, and training other instructors in the area of technology. David welcomes new experiences and challenges, and seeks opportunities to grow as a professional. He is involved in the Orange County â?" College Access Network, a TWLC Outreach Program, where he leads workshops for students and parents on a variety of college related topics. He is also a resource for students in the college admission process. Because of his commitment to professional growth, David is a peer coach for the organization and assists staff members in reflecting on their practice in order to improve effectiveness. David is an asset to the staff and continues to add value to the organization. His dedication to students and education is appreciated.

Dr. Kathryn Bihr
Director, Tiger Woods Learning Center
Anaheim, CA

Washington, Dr. Andrew

Retired Principal, ABC School District/Retired part-time EDEL faculty CSUF

Dr. Washington has dedicated his life to educating others. He has been an active educator for 50 years! He began teaching 6th grade in Compton in 1960, and served as principal from 1968-77. He was principal for ABC Unified from 1977-90, when he retired and took a part-time position in the EDEL dept. at CSUF. He worked for CSUF for 15 years teaching and supervising students. In 1998 he joined CLE/OLLI and is still a member. I know few people that care enough about the field of education to stay up on research in the field, continue to attend classes and remain an active learner, and take every opportunity to educate others. He has made lifelong friendships with those he's worked with (like me) including students he has watched marry and have families of their own. He's truly deserving of this honor.

Dr. Teresa Crawford
Faculty – Elementary & Bilingual Education – College of Education
CSUF

Yamaguchi, Janet

Director, Discovery Science Center

Currently Vice President, Education at Discovery Science Center, Janet Yamaguchi’s qualifications include a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology and 28 years of teaching experience: four years as a high school science teacher; eight years with the Orange County Department of Education, Special Division, Environmental Field Studies; and sixteen years with Discovery Science Center. Her areas of expertise include educational program design, curriculum development, and professional development for teachers, K – 12th grade levels. At the science center, she is responsible for developing programs, overseeing the supervision and training of 24 instructional staff, developing educational networks, and supervising the quality of science-based programs for over 270,000 K-12th grade students annually. Ms. Yamaguchi serves on several advisory boards, including the CSUF Dean’s Advisory Council for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the California State Advisory Board for McGraw Hill Textbook Company. In addition, she was an Educational Facilitator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency and has established Discovery Science Center as a dissemination point for national curriculum developed by the US Geological Survey, the Intel Corporation, NASA, and the National Science Foundation. She is currently also a middle school lab writer for Holt McDougal Publishers.

CSUF College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics/Dr. Vikki Costa

Zorola, Lesley

Teacher, Edison Elementary School, Anaheim City School District

Lesley Zorola, along with Robin Barry (also honored), has established an exemplary Learning Academy at Edison Elementary School. The Academy serves students who face reading and learning challenges. The program has served hundreds of children, both during and after school, and has served as a model for similar programs throughout the county and for graduate students in the MS Reading Program at CSUF. Lesley is being honored for the professional commitment and caring she demonstrates that allows her to be a change agent, making a dramatic difference in the lives of students at Edison Elementary on a daily basis.

Dr. Ula Manzo and Kathryn Bartle-Angus
Faculty - Reading Department –College of Education
CSUF