Behind every great student is a great teacher. These teachers make learning fun by thinking outside the box and creating classroom experiences that resonate with their students. They serve many roles in their schools, as spelling coaches, school bee coordinators and judges; more often than not, they are motivators who encourage their students to be the best they can be. In the “Teacher Feature,” we celebrate these educators and their commitment to their students' education.
This week's "Teacher Feature" highlights the efforts of Tarin Abraham, a sixth grade English Language Arts teacher at L.E. White Middle School in Allegan, Michigan. L.E. White Middle School is a part of the Kent Intermediate School District spelling bee program.
Becky Calvert, a fellow teacher at L.E. White Middle, nominated Mrs. Abraham for the "Teacher Feature," saying "she definitely deserves recognition for her efforts." According to Ms. Calvert, Mrs. Abraham's classroom is warm and inviting, and her approach is kind and caring. As a language arts teacher, Mrs. Abraham noticed an opportunity to improve students' spelling and vocabulary skills, and she worked diligently with word walls, vocabulary banks and emphasis on dictionary skills to enhance her students' reading comprehension. However, what began as an initiative in her own classroom, soon spread to the rest of the school through much work and dedication on her part.
Mrs. Abraham has gone above and beyond by creating a spelling bee club for her school, and many students have jumped at the opportunity to improve their language arts skills in a competitive but friendly environment. The enrichment activities that she plans for building vocabulary and spelling skills are challenging and engaging for the students who choose to spend their free time learning with Mrs. Abraham. As Ms. Calvert expressed, teachers like Mrs. Abraham will "lead our youth to becoming successful lifelong learners!"
The Scripps National Spelling Bee would like to thank Mrs. Abraham for her dedication to spelling and vocabulary for not only her own students, but every child in her school who has the desire to learn. Her work running the school's spelling bee club will continue to enrich students' lives long after they leave her classroom.
If you would like to nominate an educator for an upcoming "Teacher Feature," fill out this brief survey about the teacher you wish to nominate.