Three LEUSD Teachers Get Kudos

Three teachers were recognized at the March 21 Teacher of the Month Breakfast hosted by the Lake Elsinore Rotary Club for their outstanding work with students and in the schools.

The March Teacher of the Month honorees are from Lakeland Village School, Elsinore Middle School and Machado Elementary School.

Kristine Hansen teaches 2nd grade at Lakeland Village School. She has taught the primary grades and sixth grade for over 20 years. Principal Rita Post points out Hansen’s “can-do” attitude and recognizes her as the “silent hero” for her ongoing and strong support of the Parent Teachers Association (PTA). Hansen is also recognized for her consistent work with students and bringing them up to their current grade levels when they begin to struggle.

Art McMahon teaches Science at Elsinore Middle School. For 22 years, McMahon has gone above and beyond with his students, touting excellent scores in his classes. He is always a major participant in school activities and takes pride in making EMS shine. He currently is heading up the car show for the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Elsinore Middle School and in partnership with the drama club, McMahon’s video club is filming a documentary of the occasion. Principal Jim Judziewicz notes McMahon’s extremely strong science program, as well, boasting of his many students who have moved on the district and inland science fairs this year.

Linda Larkins has taught kindergarten for many years at Machado Elementary. She is recognized for her hard work with parents of her students to help the students reach their full potential. According to Principal Gessy Watkins, Larkins reaches out to her students, even at home mentoring them and creating voluntary programs for extended classes for kindergartners. Larkins is preparing to retire this year and is planning to begin working with college age students.

“Recognizing the achievements of these teachers reminds us that our community has the best of the best when it comes to dedicated educators,” said Chance Edmondson, president of the Lake Elsinore Rotary Club.

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. --Bonnie Woodrome