The purpose of the ABLE Excellence in Education Awards are to recognize excellence in the teaching profession to those individuals who play a vital role in making a difference in the lives of area children and the community.
Preschool/Kindergarten - Sherry Clynch, a pre-K teacher for Kids R Kids of Wentzville, received her award on May 18. Parents wrote letters praising Sherry for her creative teaching and the care and concern she shows to “her kids.”
Elementary School - Denise Kubik, first grade teacher at Westgate Christian Academy in St. Peters, received her award on June 6. A parent wrote that she leads children through strong praise and encouragement.
Middle School - Cathy McCandless, eighth grade communication arts teacher at Wentzville Middle School in the Wentzville School District, received her award on May 18. McCandless was recognized for her ability to motivate students to be successful and her willingness to go the extra mile to get them to enjoy learning.
High School - Cheryl LaLonde, 9th-12th grade teacher in the alternative program, St. Charles Success Campus, in the St. Charles School District, received her award on May 19. Colleagues commended her for being a positive role model and encourager and her ability to bring out the best in students, helping them to reach their full potential.
Postsecondary - Shirley Berryman, GED instructor at St. Charles Community College, received her award on June 15 during SCC's Adult Education and Literacy Student Recognition Ceremony. She was praised for being caring, kind and generous and for her ability to keep students coming back to class.
Nomination letters were submitted by parents, current or former students, teachers, staff members, administrators and community leaders.
The St. Charles County Alliance for Business, Learning and Education was created in 2008 in collaboration with local business leaders and participating school district personnel to foster workforce readiness and educational programs for kindergarten through 12th grade students and teachers in the community. ABLE partners with local schools, businesses and organizations to design and deliver quality programs that focus on career development, career readiness and career exploration. For more information on ABLE, visit www.stccable.org.
For more information on the ABLE Excellence in Education Awards or how to become involved in the ABLE organization, contact Tammie De Los Santos, SCC manager of workforce initiatives, at 636-922-8342 or TDeLosSantos@stchas.edu.
Established in 1986, St. Charles Community College is celebrating 25 years as a public, comprehensive two-year community college with associate degrees and certificate programs in the arts, business, sciences and career-technical fields. SCC provides workforce training and community-based personal and professional development as well as cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities. For more information, visit www.stchas.edu.