Danielle Barker, social studies teacher , PHS, has been a teacher for 18 years, 16 of which have been at PHS. She is a dedicated staff member serving on a variety of committees throughout her years of service and serving as the graduation coordinator for the past 11 years. She believes writing is essential in every occupation and pathway and works to incorporate that skill in her classes. She also believes in the importance of her students engaging with the community and connecting with others to build community. Further, she teaches her students to be critical consumers of media and conscientious, informed citizens who can engage in civil discourse.
Jessica Bernatowicz, speech-language pathologist, KES, encourages her students to achieve their communication potential so that they can meet their academic goals, and she believes that all students have potential to achieve educational success in Preston County Schools. She is also highly involved in the community working with Bits and Bridles 4H Club, the Preston County Livestock Association, and St. Sebastian’s Catholic Church.
Jennifer Boni, band and general music teacher, TAEP, believes that there are many students who are able to be successful in her classroom despite having difficulties elsewhere. It is her belief that all students can learn about music and enjoy it. She understands that students learn at different speeds and in different ways, but they can all learn. She believes in building relationships with her students and colleagues and works hard to have a safe and welcoming classroom.
Jared Brewer, math teacher, Bruceton, not only teaches each day, but also continues to keep an open mind to learn daily himself. His room is filled with motivation, laughter, and passion. He believes even the most reluctant learners can find great pride in sharing final products of rewarding assignments in his classes. He wants his students to know they are in this together and together they make it through any challenges the year may hold.
Susan Floyd, music and band teacher, Rowlesburg, has brought many students to a level of great success through their musical performances over the years. She believes that learning about culture and building relationships brings us all closer together and that makes students more invested in what goes on in the class. Outside of teaching she is an active member of her community through church and participation in the VFW Auxiliary Post 9916.
Nicholas Miller, social studies teacher, South Preston, has a passion for teaching and coaching as well as volunteering for additional duties such as faculty senate president. He believes it is important that every voice is heard, and works not just with student leadership, but also with encouraging all students to have a voice in student council endeavors. Additionally, he works tirelessly with Youth and Government, which gives him the opportunity to discuss the importance of education with state leaders and demonstrate what Preston County is doing to improve the lives of students and the community.
Sarah Rose, 4th grade teacher, West Preston, has a goal of helping students reach a potential that some may not realize they have. She believes that by engaging students in topics she can show them that school doesn’t have to be a “boring” rote memorization of facts, but rather a collection of artifacts that they can experience with skills they can sharpen. Her entire focus is that the students background, ability, and identity make up who they are as a person and that having a relationship with the person helps her to teach them.
Emily Sines, 3rd grade teacher, Aurora, believes in providing students with a variety of methods through which to demonstrate their abilities in their own way. Through the use of learning targets and success criteria, her students know the “why” behind what they are doing in the classroom and are able to share their ideas about those concepts with their classmates during discussion times. Further, she considers herself a life-long learner and believes that is reflected in the educational and social growth of the students in her classroom.
Jessie Uphold, 4th grade teacher, FES, believes in proactively seeking out diverse resources and innovative ideas to aid her students in preparing for state assessments and transitioning to 5th grade. In her classroom she strives to ensure active participation from all students and tailor her questions to bolster their self-assurance and academic growth. Overall, her teaching approach centers on cultivating a culture of respect, growth, and inclusivity to empower students from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and identities. By promoting a positive and supportive environment she aims to instill a love for learning and enable every student to reach their full potential.