Press Release 

For immediate release:

Date: March 28, 2011                                          
Contact:  Sally Cannon Hein
Bowie City Hall
2614 Kenhill Drive
Bowie, Maryland 20715  
301-809-3014

Paraprofessional Marie Casbourne has been selected by the Bowie Education Committee as the recipient of this year’s Paraprofessional Award.

One Paraprofessional, who works with students in eligible schools located in Bowie, is selected to be honored each school year. For the purpose of this award, an Education Paraprofessional, is an aide or other person who is not trained or hired as a teacher, but who works directly with children in a classroom or small group setting within a school.

In nominating Ms. Casborne, her classroom teacher Sharon Scarselli wrote “Ms. Casbourne has been assisting in the pre-K program for four years. Her love for children was evident and her willingness to assist in any was way obvious from the beginning.  She arrives at school one hour early each day and often stays late to assist with planning.  She completes her work ahead of time and takes the initiative to do additional tasks without being asked. She voluntarily takes hall and bus duty every day, assists other teachers and shares many of her own belongings from home. The children enjoy working with her and flourish with her assistance, approval and love. Her conscientious nature helps to make a difference in the life of every member of our pre-K class. ”  

When informed of the selection Mary Stephenson, Principal at Pointer Ridge Elementary School, said “it is a pleasure to have Marie as a member of our family here at Pointer Ridge.  She is extremely dedicated to the students, parents and staff.  She has an excellent rapport with all.  She arrives to school early and stays late if needed.  She is always willing to lend a helping hand.  Marie is working from the time she enters the building from preparing for the students to helping with the school's arrival process. With her assistance, we know that our students will be prepared for the next grade level.  I am extremely proud and excited for her recognition.  She deserves it all.  Kudos, Marie”!

Ms. Casbourne will be honored by the Bowie City Council on April 4th.  She will receive a certificate of appreciation and recognition from the City of Bowie and a gift certificate generously provided by the Texas Roadhouse in Bowie. All are welcome to attend the presentation which will occur at 8 PM in Bowie City Hall located at 2614 Kenhill Drive, Bowie, MD 20715.

The Education Committee would like to thank the Texas Roadhouse in Bowie, for providing a gift card for this year’s Paraprofessional honoree. Support of this program by Texas Roadhouse is greatly appreciated.

For more information about this award, please contact the Education Committee at 301-809-3014 or shein@cityofbowie.org.