Four LEUSD Teachers Honored

The following is a news release from the Rotary Club of Lake Elsinore:

This month, the Rotary Club of Lake Elsinore is honoring four teachers with outstanding qualities at the Teacher of the Month Program. Last Wednesday, principals from Wildomar Elementary, Luiseno School and Cottonwood Canyon Elementary recognized teachers that are making a difference at their schools.

Karen Kusayanagi  and Gay St.Yves of Wildomar Elementary are a unique team. Principal Dr. Corene Barr recognized them for their work together, especially when times got challenging. Together as team kindergarten teachers for 9 years, Kusayanagi  and St.Yves were moved to fifth grade for the 2012-13 school year just a few days before school started. Both teachers adapted quickly to the change and proved that a smooth transition was possible, even when time was tight. Kusayanagi is a member of the school wide council and takes on leadership roles within her work. St. Yves serves on the District committee and is deeply involved in the Parent Teacher Association (PTA). Both women volunteer at their church to assist in food distribution and tutoring children in need.

Michelle Carlisle of  Cottonwood Canyon Elementary School received great praise from Principal Gordon Wood.  

“She is always the first teacher in and the last to leave” said Wood.

She is an avid supporter and spearheads the Character Development aspect of the school’s “No Excuses” University Preparation program. She has revamped the school’s reading program and has over 300 students who were acknowledged for their growth within the program.

Patrick Webb of Luiseño School was recognized by Principal Susan Jones for continually meeting the needs of all students. Webb serves as a grade team leader after recently taking over a 6th grade teaching slot. He brought the ASB leadership program to Luiseño and encourages his students to set examples of leadership and service to the younger grades.  Webb is, also, the Activities Director for the school. Jones notes that Webb is influential in reaching the school’s vision of growth and development.

“These teachers embody the true meaning of educators and we are honored to recognize their many accomplishments,” said Warren Stephenson, president of the Rotary Club of Lake Elsinore.

Lake Elsinore Rotary Club recognizes three teachers from the Lake Elsinore School District every third Wednesday of the month at their club meetings held at Ortega High School in Lake Elsinore.

The Rotary Club of Lake Elsinore meets on Wednesday mornings at 7:00 a.m. at the Ortega High School Conference Center at 520 Chaney St., Lake Elsinore.  An evening extension club meets at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Lone Star Steakhouse Restaurant in Lake Elsinore.  For information about Rotary programs, log onto www.lakeelsinorerotary.org .