Began in 2002 to recognize a clearly outstanding classroom teacher or teacher educator of reading/language arts/literature. This award honors Dr. Sam Sebesta.
Criteria
- The recipient of the award must be a classroom teacher or university educator who works directly with students in a school or college/university setting.
- In addition, the applicant/nominee must have taught for five (5) full years in Washington and be nominated by at least four persons through letters of support.
- Applicants/ nominees must have been WORD members for a minimum of 5 years and have current WORD and IRA memberships.
Classroom teachers nominees will be evaluated in the following criteria:
- Knowledge of reading/language arts
- Teaching effectiveness; including effective use of children’s literature
- Willingness to share ideas and methods
- Impact on colleagues
- Demonstrated enthusiasm for reading and language arts
Teacher educator nominees will be evaluated in the following criteria:
- A knowledgeable professional who knows the field and who maintains currency in research and practice.
- A developer and implementer who develops and implements outstanding courses in reading for preservice and/or inservice teachers.
- A leader in the field of reading who assumes responsible leadership positions.
- A role model who inspires preservice/inservice teachers to develop pupils to their fullest potential in reading and challenges students to extend their educational horizons.
Past Sebesta Awards
2005 – Steve Siera and Terry Young
2004 – Vikki Berard, Northshore
2003 – Terry Young, Benton-Franklin
2002 – Linda Lee, Spokane