Email 
Print2009 National Teacher of the Year
High School
- Northwest District -
 |
Name: Lisa Summers |
Describe one or two of the newest and/or most innovative activities that you do with your students in physical education?
The past year, I have been using assessments in PE with a new lens. To improve student learning, I have developed "kid friendly objectives" that I use daily to help my students connect what they will be doing for the day and the expecations I have for their learning. These "KFO's" help me to check for their understanding as I assess them both summatively and formatively. Assessments in my class look different. I have been using Rick Stiggins' effective teaching strategies and Robert Marzano's researched-based strategies to improve student performance. Together these KFO's and these new teaching strategies are improving the rate at which my students learn. I am confidnet that my studnets are meeting and exceeding standards, and State and National standards.
What is your particular expertise in regard to teaching physical education – what is the focus of your teaching?
I have the desire and ability to teach just about any and all physical activities. Being diversified helps me be flexible as a teacher and gives my kids an opportunity to be exposed to lots of different activities. Wanting to learn more and exposing yourself to new games and activities helps me grow as a teacher. I want to make sure that as the trends change and new innovative ideas surge that I too evolve. I like to expose my students to lots of activities. I focus my teaching and assessing on the application and understandng of the biomechanical principles, body patterns, space and relationships, training principles, fitness components, nutrition, wellness, and body systems.
What is your philosophy for physical education – what do you believe in?
I know that our health is our most important asset. When each of us entered this world the number one concern was whether or not each of us "was healthy." It is critical at birth and it is critical when I see my students in high school. My goal and job as a PE teacher is to teach my students to demonstrate competency at many different psychomotor skills, and to understand and apply the cognitive concepts that they understand and can apply. And because of their cognitive and physical skills to enjoy being active for a lifetime. I want all of my students to be able to say, "I am fit, I can train me and others, I know what I am made of, I can make healthy choices, I know how to access local health and fitness organizations, I know the consequences of poor decisions, and the benefits of good decisions." In the end, I want all of my students to proudly say and maintain….."I am a physically educated person."
What does being a physical education Teacher of the Year mean to you?
When I learned of this award, I knew it came with great responsibility. I need to sustain the characteristics and qualities of a state and district TOY. I need to continue to work hard at providing quality physical education, maintain my passion and love of teaching PE, continue to grow and develop as a professional learner, provide a positive voice for PE, model effective teaching strategies, and create the best environment for my students to grow, develop, and maintain healthy and fit lives.
What do you do to help other physical education teachers plan and implement exemplary programs?
I am able to share my ideas, activities, lessons, assessments, and teaching strategies to others in my district and state in various ways; workshops I present at, in my professional learning collaboration teams, observations, technology, and providing materials. I have several teachers around the state that take advantage of my website, others that I email back and forth with. I find what is most helpful is when teachers come and observe me for a day or two. It is a real perspective in how I approach teaching, planning, and assesing PE.
Any quotes from students about you as a physical education teacher, or the classes taught by you?
(From an article in The Olympian) Someone I respect: Lisa Summers, my physical education teacher and soccer coach because she has taught me a lot about living a healthy life, and I admire her character and enthusiasm---Michelle Phillips Senior.
(From an article in The Olympian) "When I could sign up for PE, I wanted to make sure it was with Mrs. Summers. She makes everything funny. She could be a comedian." Kristen Boyd, Sophomore.
"She's one of those teachers you'll always remember. Kids are her life, and it really shows." Ricki Marsh, Sophomore
Freshmen year I was so envious of Annie because she had Summers. You were so nice, outgoing, and understanding to all of your students. When I had to take PE this year, I was less than excited. I don't really like running, and team sports are not my forte. I am an artist; I do not do well on a court or field. When second semester rolled around I wasn't so sure I wanted PE first period. I am now incredibly glad that I took this class. Your cheerful face and awesome attitude is the perfect pick me up at 8am. You are an awesome PE teacher that doesn't mind diving into the activity of the day with her kids. I never really appreciated working out until I learned that I didn't just have to run and lift weights. Thank you for an incredible senior year. Whitney Kitchner, Senior
I have learned so much in your classes over the past two years. You have always been so nice to me and always helping me. You have made PE the most interesting and stimulating class I have ever had. PE used to be a hassle that I could not wait to get out of. As a kid I never liked PE and you have changed my opinion of it. The specialized courses offered here are great because everyone can find something that is of interest. Being in your class has literally changed my life. Amanda Marcello
List three of your "favorite" conference session titles that you have presented, with a brief description of each.
"Assessment: effective strategies for the PE teacher," How Marzano and Stiggins would assess in PE- Quick ways to check for understanding, common based assessments, and summative assessments.
"It don't mean a thing if you don't know how to swing!" - How to teach east coast swing in PE.
Any additional major teaching awards you have received:
2006 Washington State Teacher of the Year
2007 Northwest District Teacher of the Year
1997-present Who's Who Among America's Teacher
2006 STARS High School
2008 Presiden'ts Health and Fitness Demonstration Center
2008 Teacher PACK Award by BHHS
2006 Marble Apple Award by BHHS students
2009 Teacher PACK Award by BHHS