05/26/2020 -
Chelsea Borell, a third-grade teacher at Sequoia Elementary in Rincon Valley Union School District, has been named Sonoma County Teacher of the Month for May 2020.
The monthly award honors one of Sonoma County's most outstanding teachers from October through May. It is sponsored by the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE), K-HITS 104.9, and Community First Credit Union (CFCU), with additional support from Platinum Chevrolet and Bernstein Orthodontics.
“So many teachers have stepped up in incredible ways to support students and families during these unprecedented times of distance learning,” said Steven D. Herrington, Sonoma County Superintendent of Schools. “The Teacher of the Month program this year seeks to honor, support, and thank those teachers who have gone above and beyond to support students during the shelter-in-place."
Ms. Borell received a number of enthusiastic nominations from parents, colleagues, and students alike. They described her as a dedicated teacher who easily connected with and understood students, even despite the challenges of distance learning.
"Mrs. Borell always goes above and beyond. She makes each and every kid feel loved and appreciated. Inspiring kids is definitely a specialty she has," read one nomination.
Another person wrote, "She meets with her class via Zoom three times a week, has come up with engaging and creative online lessons, utilizes a broad spectrum of fun online learning tools, and regularly checks in to see how her students are doing emotionally. The transition into distance learning was smooth, and my 3rd grader has felt appropriately challenged, but never stressed. Mrs. Borell managed to achieve this while caring for an infant at home!"
Representatives from SCOE and KHITS surprised Ms. Borell over a virtual staff meeting held Tuesday, May 26. She will also be given $600 worth of gift cards for classroom supplies, courtesy of Bernstein Orthodontics, Platinum Chevrolet, and Redwood Credit Union. Normally, she would also be presented with a plaque. However, because the sign store was closed due to COVID-19, several of her students, whose families nominated Ms. Borell, made hand-made signs for her.
Learn more and nominate a special teacher in your life by going to http://www.sonomacountyteacher.com
