José Luis Alfaro, an algebra and pre-calculus teacher at Male High School, is the latest recipient of the WHAS Excellence in Classroom and Educational Leadership Award.
From a JCPS press release:
Alfaro came to the United States from El Salvador as a Fulbright Scholar in 1986. He earned a bachelor’s degree in math and physics from the University of Louisville. He also earned a master’s in Spanish literature as well as an MBA, and he is certified to teach math, Spanish, and business in Kentucky.
He is well known among both staff and students at Male for his innovative use of education technology, including a wireless handheld computer that students pass around to contribute to lessons on the classroom SMART Board (an electronic, touch-screen whiteboard). Male High teacher Keary Walker says the interactive and graphical nature of Alfaro’s high-tech lessons helps students develop a deep understanding of math concepts. Through the JCPS Online system, Alfaro has created a virtual classroom where he posts general information, assignments, a calendar, and daily notes.
The ExCEL award includes a $1,000 instructional grant from E.ON U.S.
“José Luis Alfaro truly embodies the meaning of teacher,” said Male assistant principal Jenny Edelen. “Mr. Alfaro diligently workds to perfect his craft, and I am continually impressed with his work ethic and his rapport with students.”
Kudos to Alfaro and the rest of our great teachers in the public school system!
5 responses so far ↓
1 Novena // Nov 11, 2009 at 1:52 pm
“Kudos to Mr. Alfaro andt Teachers Like Him”
I wouldn’t trade one Mr. Alfaro for 1,000 Bermans. Fortunately, most teachers who live in the trenches do a good job and are not duly recognized for what they do. I wish Shellie would visit his schools long enough to recognize them all. (But his many trips don’t allow him to do so. Shellie, at least recognize Mr. Alfaro today.)
2 fleur-de-gris // Nov 12, 2009 at 8:49 am
i’m so used to the conspiracy theories and pot-shots at easy targets on this site that i expect one with every headline. reading this one i thought ‘oh no, what is he going to say about this teacher or the worth of this award?’
so it’s a nice change – a pleasant surprise – to be wrong and to read a positive report about the good this teacher is doing and the recognition he’s received.
congrats mr alfaro!
too bad novena had to ruin the good vibe with another gratuitous dig at berman.
3 jake // Nov 12, 2009 at 8:58 am
I have a solution to your problem: Don’t like it? Don’t read it.
Because I’m not certain using facts and evidence is something anyone who thinks on their own could misconstrue as “conspiracy theories and pot-shots.”
But, really, no one is forcing you to visit the site. I encourage you not to return if you can’t deal with it.
4 Woodrow // Nov 12, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Mr. Alfaro is an amazing teacher and a wonderful person. I am happy to see that he was recognized in this manner with such an award. It is a shame that more teachers (in both public and private school) don’t have 10% of the enthusiasm this man has for teaching, education, people and life.
5 The Fantastic Mrs. Bunny // Dec 11, 2009 at 2:01 pm
Contrary to fleur’s belief, I always find plenty of positive, informative and hilarious stuff on this site.
There are plenty of “shots” taken at people like Superintendent Berman because they DESERVE it. Thank God somebody is telling it like it is with Berman because the CJ sure as heck isn’t going to do it.
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