The Alternative Certification for Teachers Program, ACT, celebrated its program success along with the holiday season this December. There were more than 40 volunteers, school administrators, and past and present ACT students who attended the reception, sponsored by a generous donation by the Credit Union of Texas. Two intern teachers were presented with engraved apples named after Brookhaven ACT founder Marjorie Westberry. Janis Grace is a teacher intern at the Lake Highlands Freshman Grade Center in the Richardson Independent School District. Grace was honored for gaining the respect of her school and district. While still a probationary teacher, she was asked to present a staff development to other district teachers on classroom management, and not many teachers can say that.
Miguel Topps is a science teacher intern at Bowie Middle School in the Irving Independent School District. His teacher mentor says that Topps’ excitement for science and his belief in kids permeates his class. Every student in his room is actively engaged 100 percent of the time either taking notes, volunteering to answer, participating in hands-on activities, or responding to his thoughtful questions with never a minute wasted.
Vicky Jackson-High was recognized as the ACT faculty member of the year and Sarah Ferguson, executive dean of educational resources, was honored as the ACT advisory council member of the year.
