For Immediate Release
March 3, 2005

Contact: Leni Stern
Community Outreach Specialist
301-809-3068
lstern@cityofbowie.org

Subject: March Teacher of the Month Frances Koontz, Rockledge Elementary School

Fourth grade teacher at Rockledge Elementary School, Mrs. Koontz, has been selected by the Bowie Education Committee, as the March 2006 Teacher of the Month. She is referred to as the teacher who provides students with an “outstanding educational experience,” and is considered an “essential member” of the school community.

In her nomination, provided by parent Cynthia Farmer and her son Craig Farmer, Jr., Mrs. Koontz is described as having expertise that is evident in the way “she sets high expectations for her students, manages her classroom, organizes and delivers effective lessons all while making learning fun and providing opportunities of success for her students.” She “establishes a positive and productive classroom environment,” where “ideas are generated, accepted and respected.” “She turns her classroom into an exciting, intriguing and positive world of learning.” Students don’t want to miss class. Time in her class is too interesting to miss.

Pamela Landry, Principal at Rockledge, calls Mrs. Koontz an “exceptional teacher,” whose students “are active learners and enjoy every moment of the motivating experience they encounter every day in her class.” “She works well beyond the school day to prepare this grand arena for learning. She uses current events, grows Chesapeake Bay grass in class and schedules field trips among other things to enhance an already challenging curriculum.” “She cares for her students deeply. Mrs. Koontz is a master teacher. We are fortunate to have her at our school. She is a model for all of us.”

As Teacher of the Month, Mrs. Koontz will be recognized by Bowie City Council at a future Council meeting. She will receive a certificate of recognition and a $50 United States Savings Bond, funding for which is provided by program partner, the Washington Savings Bank of Bowie. Main Street Caterers, will treat her and Principal Pamela Landry to a special “lunch box,” so that they may take time out for a special lunch together. In addition Chick Fil –A will be sending meal coupons to Ms. Koontz with a congratulatory letter.

The Teacher of the Month program recognizes Bowie teachers for their teaching excellence, as well as for the “little things” which mean a lot to students, parents, and peers. Some examples are: a teacher who has a novel way of teaching that makes learning fun, or a teacher who helps a child feel comfortable on the first day of school, or whose attitude and enthusiasm toward teaching make them special in someone’s eyes. Nomination information is available at public, private and parochial schools located in Bowie, the Department of Community Services at Bowie City Hall, as well as on the City of Bowie web site, www.cityofbowie.org. For
additional information, contact Education Committee liaison Leni Stern, at
lstern@cityofbowie.org or 301-809-3068.