Congratulations to the Berkley Schools Teachers of the Year

On March 4 and 9, Berkley Schools administrators surprised District Teachers of the Yyear. With flowers, certificates, Visa gift cards from the Berkley Education Foundation and signs in hand, teachers were surprised while they were teaching. Principals, colleagues and family members joined in on the fun, too. During the surprises, Superintendent Francis asked students to share one word they would use to describe their teachers. Students were eager to share their love for their teachers sharing words like: caring, loving, funny, kind, and smart.

 

Congratulations to the following Berkley Schools building Teachers of the Year!

Berkley Building Blocks: Becky Schaal, GSRP

On the nomination form, a colleague shared the following about Ms. Becky: Becky is incredibly kind, patient, and emotionally responsive to her students. Becky runs a classroom where every child gets their needs met and feels seen. She meets all children where they are at and creates lessons appropriate to each child’s development. Becky also has a great sense of humor and I have seen her laugh with her children even as they are solving problems. Becky is also a wonderful role model for other teachers because she is kind and responsive to them as well.

Angell: Ann Daniels, 3rd Grade

On the nomination form, a parent shared this about Ms. Daniels: What sets Ms. Daniels apart is how well she truly knows her students. She does not take a one-size-fits-all approach. She pays attention to how each child learns and meets them where they are. For my child, that has looked like extra encouragement at the right moments and the kind of steady support that makes a child feel seen, capable, and safe to try new things. My child comes home feeling proud of herself, and that is not an accident. That is the result of a teacher who understands her students and takes the time to connect with them as individuals.

Burton: Christie McVean, 3rd Grade

On the nomination form, Burton Principal Lauren Fragomeni shared: Whenever I visit Christie’s classroom, I notice right away how focused and engaged her students are. They work together, share ideas, and challenge each other’s thinking in a respectful way. Christie sets high expectations while also showing kindness and support. Her students know they are expected to do their best, but they also feel seen, valued, and encouraged. Her classroom is a great example of the Blue Jay Way, where kindness, respect, and empathy are part of every day.

Norup Elementary: Jill Bellmore, Social Worker

On the nomination form, a colleague shared the following about Ms. Bellmore: Jill understands that elementary school is where trajectories are formed. She focuses on building skills that carry forward into middle school and beyond, helping children develop a positive identity as learners. She advocates strongly for students with disabilities by helping teams examine unmet needs and question whether expectations are developmentally appropriate. At every opportunity, she works to strengthen the relationship between the student, the teacher, and the classroom. … Long after a student leaves Norup, the impact of Jillʼs work remains. Former students frequently return to check in with Mrs. Bellmore, and it is not uncommon to see her in the stands supporting students beyond the school day. These moments reflect the depth of relationships and trust she builds. 

Pattengill: Karsyn Baker, Learning Specialist

On the nomination form, Principal Shamika Womble shared the following about Ms. Baker: Karsyn Baker brings a contagious, positive, and cheerful attitude to Pattengill each day and exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. She leads with heart, dedication, and a genuine love for her school community, all while maintaining a warm smile and positive presence. I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for the Teacher of the Year Award.

Rogers: Rikki Kwas, 2nd Grade

On the nomination form, a colleague shared the following about Ms. Kwas: She is also someone who truly sees her students. She spends so much time working with small groups, making sure each child gets exactly what they need. Whether it’s giving extra support to help a student finally master a reading skill or pushing another to stretch their thinking, she meets them where they are and moves them forward with so much patience and care. The relationships she builds with parents are incredible. Families trust her because they know she always has their child’s best interest at heart. She communicates honestly and kindly, and parents know she is truly invested in their kids.

 

In addition to being the Rogers Elementary Teacher of the Year, Rikki is also the Berkley Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year and will be honored at an Oakland Schools event in May.

Anderson: Crystal Reid, Art

On the nomination form, a student shared the following about Ms. Reid: As I've been at Anderson each year, I see a new group of kids who are scared to be themselves, find Ms. Reid, and embrace who they are. And it's not just me and my friends. I see her talk to all the other kids in the hallways, giving advice, laughing, encouraging them. She is such an important part of Anderson and my time here would have been very different if I hadn't had the privilege of being her student. I don't think anyone could imagine where we would be without her. She's always motivating me to do the crazy projects that I think of, and helps me wherever she can. There really isn't any way for me to thank her for what she's done for me as a student and a person. She's genuinely the best.

Norup Middle School: Mary Austin, 7th Grade Math

On the nomination form, a colleague shared the following about Ms. Austin: While her colleagues treasure her warmth and humor, it is the students of the Berkley School District who benefit the most from Mary Austin's extraordinary heart. Mary is one of the most beloved teachers in the District. Students eagerly anticipate the chance to have Mrs. Austin for math, having heard stories from siblings who speak of her infectious laugh, her love of music and dancing in class, her joyful celebrations that are often accompanied by enthusiastic "hoot hoots," and, most importantly, her remarkable ability to make every single student feel valued. Her reputation as a master teacher who genuinely loves her students precedes her.  

 

In addition to being the Anderson Middle School Teacher of the Year, Mary is also the Berkley Schools Middle School Teacher of the Year and will be honored at an Oakland Schools event in May.

BHS: Meredith Montgomery, Spanish 2 & 3

On the nomination form, a student shared: As my time as her student closed, she never let me walk past her class without saying hello or asking me to chat before class. With that, she is the prime example of what community feels like to me, along with the students who have stepped into her classroom. Without a doubt, learning an unfamiliar language is a complicated and difficult task. Additionally, learning a language in front of your peers and simulating foreign conversations can be daunting. However, Señora's classroom has always felt like a safe and welcoming environment for students to foster new friendships with classmates while collaborating and discovering the Spanish language. 

 

In addition to being the BHS Teacher of the Year, Meredith is also the Berkley Schools High School Teacher of the Year and will be honored at an Oakland Schools event in May.