Recipient: Sandra Bennett                                       

School: Clemens Mill Public School

Number of Years Teaching: 30

Grade: 8

Subject: English

Sandra Bennett has been teaching for 30 years.  She is presently teaching 85 grade 8 students English each day at Clemens Mill Public School. 

Sandra, who was inspired by her mother-- a phenomenal teacher, says that she is excited to go to work everyday.  This enthusiasm comes from the "specialness" of the teenage students that she teaches.  They are at a tough age, but they are still excited about life.  Sandra sees teaching as the most important job in the world.  As she works with these young people she provides them with humour, real boundaries, love, challenges, understanding and patience.  She stresses the absolute importance of manners, kindness and no rudeness.  She wants her class to be a wonderful place and a place where all students have equal opportunity to succeed and experience care. 

In her words, Sandra says, "I have found in teaching what I love."

Riley, one of Sandra's English students wrote:

Mrs. Bennett is a dramatic, exceptional teacher who can motivate even the most uninspired and disinterested students.  By using special voices, different lighting, theatrical performances and effective costumes and props, she brings novels, short stories, and books to life!  Her classroom environment is exciting and electrifying and we always look forward to our next English and Drama class.  Mrs. Bennett often ends classes with suspense and we simply can't wait for our next class.  She is the master of cliffhangers!

Mrs. Bennett inspires and encourages all students to strive for excellence and to work to their fullest potential in all areas.  Right from the first day of school, she made it very clear that she values and appreciates each individual student.  She always treats us with respect and her sense of humour guides us through challenging times.  Mrs. Bennett is always willing to listen and she takes extra time and care to connect with her students.

Mrs. Bennett is everything and more that a student could wish for in a teacher!