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Going to work Friday morning, Ann VanDuyne had no idea she soon would be the center of attention.
At 9 a.m., VanDuyne, a fifth-grade teacher at Washington Elementary School, Warsaw, walked into a surprise assembly in the school's gym and one of several standing ovations. VanDuyne was named one of 10 teachers in the state selected as a 2002 Project E Excellence in Education Teacher Award winner.
Project E, according to representative Dolly Bauman, is a nonprofit educational reform group formed in 2000 to reinforce exceptional education efforts in the state. One part of that reinforcement, Bauman said, is that "we like to see great teachers being recognized for their great efforts."
As one of the Project E honorees, VanDuyne received an $8,000 grant "to use as she wishes," Bauman said, and Tom Ray, principal of Washington Elementary, was presented with a $2,000 grant on behalf of the school.
VanDuyne was nominated by fellow teacher Dick Rooker, who said, "Mrs. VanDuyne, over the years you've created terrific educational opportunities for students," both in the classroom and as extracurricular activities.
He also cited her "excitement for learning and for sharing what you've learned," and for inspiring other teachers with her passion for professional growth.
"You've encouraged me and given me hope that I could become a better teacher in the craft of educating students, ..." he said to VanDuyne.
VanDuyne, whose entire family was present, as was Warsaw superintendent Dr. David McGuire, assistant superintendent Sandra Hess and part of the Warsaw Community High School band, has taught for 21 years, 16 of those at Washington.
She said, "This is the best school around, the best staff and the best kids. This is the best time to be teaching. Just keep learning always because learning should be fun."
