In the Spring of 2019, the London City School District published its Portrait of a Graduate, highlighting the essential skills and attitudes necessary for district graduates to succeed in college and careers. Our district uses the Portrait of a Graduate to help design meaningful teaching and learning experiences for our students. In a similar way during the Spring of 2022, the London City School District worked to identify and publish the most valued skills and dispositions that educators should demonstrate on a daily basis to help prepare our students to be future-ready. These skills include:
Effective Communication,
Focused on Relationship-Building,
Being Flexible and Adaptable,
Demonstrating High Integrity; and,
Being a Role-Model for Life-Long Learning.
LES STEM Teacher, Julie Thompson, was recognized during the April Regular Board of Education meeting for substantially demonstrating the district’s Portrait of an Educator. Congratulations Mrs. Thompson!
Nominated by a Peer Teacher:
Julie Thompson has taught fifth-grade science and math for decades. During COVID, she volunteered to be a remote teacher and embraced that new challenge exceeding expectations, and last year she stepped into the role of STEM teacher for our K-5 school of over 900 students.
Julie has done an absolutely amazing job in this role!! The kids go for an entire week, for an hour a day once a quarter. They get to do the design process from start to finish that week. I do not know everything she does with each grade level. But I see the projects displayed around the building. I have seen mazes they have made, dioramas, Rube Goldberg machines, and projects from Project Lead the Way. She has collaborated with teachers to create lessons that fit into curriculum standards that are also age appropriate.
She also has the most amazing personality. She loves the kids, and they think she is a rock star. Students who struggle in the structured environment of a classroom thrive in her STEM Lab. She is an amazing teacher, and we are blessed to have her.
Nominated by Mrs. Shaw:
I would like to nominate Julie Thompson for the "Portrait of an Educator" award. Julie has been a remarkable teacher, who has made a significant impact on the lives of her students, colleagues, and the wider community.
Julie has a unique ability to effectively communicate with all individuals, regardless of their background, learning style, or abilities. She takes the time to listen to her students, colleagues, and parents and responds with empathy and clarity. Her excellent communication skills allow her to convey complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand, making learning accessible and enjoyable for all.
Julie is focused on building positive relationships with her students, colleagues, and parents. She understands that building strong relationships is essential for creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. She is always available to her students and colleagues, providing them with the support they need to succeed.
One of Julie's greatest strengths is her flexibility and adaptability. She understands that every student is unique and requires individualized support to succeed. She is constantly exploring new teaching strategies and techniques, adapting her teaching style to meet the needs of her students. Her willingness to adapt and change has helped her create an engaging and dynamic learning environment that has helped countless students succeed.
Julie is a role model for life-long learning. She is constantly seeking new opportunities for professional development, attending workshops, conferences, and training sessions to stay up-to-date with the latest teaching strategies and trends. She is passionate about learning and inspires her students to become lifelong learners.
Finally, Julie is a teacher who demonstrates high integrity. She always acts with honesty, fairness, and respect for her students and colleagues. She is committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.
Students, parents, and fellow educators are encouraged to nominate outstanding London teachers, who significantly demonstrate the district’s Portrait of an Educator. Nominations can be made by filling out this nomination form.