Judy Gillem, left, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, presents Educator of the
Semester Awards to Sherri Tate, Susan Aguilar, and Danny Clayton.

Educators Honored By
Chamber of Commerce

by: Bobby McDonald

Three Hopkins County educators were honored at the Thursday, Board Meeting of the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce, as the Outstanding Educators for the Spring 2006 Semester. Cited for the award were Sherri Tate, Susan Aguilar, and Danny Clayton. In making the announcement, Judy Gillem, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, told of the many outstanding qualities that each received from their schools, who nominated them.

Sherri Tate, a speech therapist at Como-Pickton ISD, was the winner in the Professional category, and was nominated by Sandra Billodeau, Assistant Superintendent. "Sherri always puts children first and the the first person on the staff to help out other educators," stated Billodeau. "One could say she wears many hats.....speech therapist, counselor, teacher, bus monitor, coach, and most especially a sincere friend!"

 

"Tate's special passion is serving as a Special Olympics Coach," continued Billodeau. "She coaches the team and helps raise money for the acitivities, willingly giving her time and effort. Sherri is a true advocate for students with disabilities, and for all children, and it is with pride that the Como-Pickton District nominates her for this award!"

"Danny Clayton has worked in the Maintenance Department at Sulphur Springs Independent School District, for 13 years," stated Sherry Garrard, in her nomination letter for Clayton. "He has an incredible job attendance record with attributes of timeliness and dependability. Danny has various tasks and responsibilities that would appear daunting to many others, as he serves as a member of the Grounds Crew for the district. He helps keep thirteen buildings and surrounding properties, while maintaining an image of quality for the district, in the community."

"Danny is the primary person who helps move supplies and products throughout the Sulphur Springs ISD, and successfully manages to keep more than 600 employees stocked, as they educate over 4,200 students," continued Garrard. "He serves as a most valuable employee, but most importantly serves as an outstanding role model for the many, many students he comes in contact with on a daily basis!"

Susan Aguilar, a Title 1 Aide at Austin Elementary School in Sulphur Springs, received the Auxillary designation and was cited for her many outstanding qualities, in the nomination letter by Juan Harrison, her principal. "Susan is a critical member of our campus and demonstrates excellence in all areas of her job," stated Harrison. "She fulfills a vital role as a translator and liaison for the many Hispanic Students who have problems with the English language, and continues to excel in her job, while continuing her education, in pursuit of an Elementary Education Degree."

"Susan's role in aiding third-grade students in passing the TAKS Test has been tremendous," continued Harrison. " She is an outstanding para-professional and a unique asset to our education team!"

Each educator received a plaque and will be be nominated for the Educator of the Year Award, that will be presented at the annual Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Banquet, in February.

 

Congratulations,
Danny, Susan, & Sherri!

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