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Print2011 District Teacher of the Year
Elementary School
- Southwest District -
 |
Name: Nancy Hennefer |
Describe one or two of the newest and/or most innovative activities that you do with your students in physical education? (i.e. instructional units, assessment strategies/techniques, development of personal/social skills, parent/family involvement, special events, etc)
I have initiated the design and use of an assessment "workbook" used by primary grades. These consumable workbooks include motor, cognitive and affective assessments which can be completed by both the student and peers. Basic lifeskills, rules and protocols are also included in their learning packet.
I have also designed and coordinated "CampNight", an annual event held at a local park. Various physical activity stations are offered after a family BBQ dinner. The evening concludes at the outdoor amphitheater with storytelling and camp songs!
What is your particular expertise in regard to teaching physical education – what is the focus of your teaching?
The focus of my teaching is to help students become exceptional human beings with both the physical and social skills to help create a better life for themselves and a better world for all in which to live.
What is your philosophy for physical education – what do you believe in?
To use one of my favorite quotes, "We don't stop playing because we get old, we get old because we stop playing." Physical education sets the foundation for play, for moving, for having a zest for life to be enjoyed regardless of age, ability or gender.
What does being a physical education Teacher of the Year mean to you?
I am proud to have spent my entire 33 year career as a Physical Educator, 32 at the elementary level. I am looking forward to continued learning, sharing and playing with those that I have already met and those I will meet in the future.
What do you do to help other physical education teachers plan and implement exemplary programs?
I volunteer to present at various conferences and workshops. I have mentored both new and experienced colleagues and continue to try to be a guiding force for others.
Any quotes from students about you as a physical education teacher, or the classes taught by you?
I always love when a 1st grader says…Mrs.H, you're the BEST PE teacher I have EVER had!
List three of your "favorite" conference session titles that you have presented, with a brief description of each.
"Duck, duck goose is duck, duck dead": This session (designed more for classroom teachers) takes "traditional" games that they still use with their students and adapts the activity to be developmentally appropriate and inclusive of standards base instruction.
"Enhancing grade level hot spots through Physical Education"; Teachers are introduced to physical activities that focus on priority content standards in such subjects as math, language arts, science and history. Activities include such games as "Food Chain Tag" , "State Capital Frisbee Golf", and "Shooting Stars".
Any additional major teaching awards you have received:
- I have been recognized by my school as a Teacher of the Year
- Recognized by state AAHPERD including a two time Teacher of the Year (1987 and 2010) and the Honor Award.
- Elected Chairperson for NASPE's Council of Physical Education for Children (COPEC)
- Nominated for AAHPERD's Mabel Lee Award.