‘The best teacher ever’
Skyway Elementary School first-grade teacher Kathy Montgomery was honored last week as Numerica’s Credit Union’s School Champion of the Month in what could be her last award before retiring at the end of the year.
Second-grader Brooklyn Cunningham wrote the nominating essay, proclaiming Montgomery to be “the best teacher ever” and lamenting that future Skyway first-graders in Coeur d’Alene won’t have her as a teacher.
“She is going to retire, and I am so sad that other children will not be able to have her as a teacher, especially my little brother, Bennett,” Brooklyn wrote.
According to the essay, Brooklyn entered first grade extremely quiet and shy, but thanks to Montgomery, “(I) ended up making many friends and loving first grade.”
“Mrs. Montgomery helped me feel comfortable and let me do things at my own speed and in my own way,” Brooklyn’s essay continues. “She even gave me extra projects to work on that really made me feel special.”
The essay cited numerous examples of the “cool, fun things” Montgomery does in class, such as teaching sign language, hatching baby chicks “and reading to us every day.”
Brooklyn’s parents chimed in, too, calling Montgomery “a true blessing for Brooklyn.”
“Our daughter blossomed during her year with this outstanding instructor of education,” Dave and Natalie Cunningham wrote. “Now, when she grows up, Brooklyn wants to become a teacher just like Mrs. Montgomery (or maybe an astronaut.)”
After accepting the award, Montgomery told the hundreds of Skyway students assembled in the gymnasium, “It’s been a very pleasant job to have, to be a teacher for so long.”
Brooklyn received $25 for the winning essay, along with two passes to Silverwood Theme Park. She also will be entered in a drawing for an iPod.
Montgomery received a $45 gift certificate to Outback Steakhouse, a gift bag, a recognition plaque and two passes to Silverwood.
Skyway will receive $100 to be used how Montgomery wishes.
Only one more School Champion of the Month will be named this school year.
Students can nominate their favorite employee at any North Idaho school. Nominations consist of a written essay explaining why the employee deserves recognition. Forms are available at any school office or online at www.numericacu.com.
Developmental screening coming up
Do you live in the Coeur d’Alene School District and have a child 5 years old or younger?
If so, consider attending a free developmental screening Monday at Harding Family Center, 411 N. 15th St., with that child.
The screening provides information for parents on their child’s speech and language, muscle and concept development, as well as vision and hearing.
Parents should call 666-6762 for more information.