Ferris auto tech teacher John Sinsel cited
John Sinsel, automotive technology teacher at Ferris High School, was named Washington State New Career and Technical Teacher of the Year last month.
His nominator wrote, “This program attracts an impressive cross section of students because of its relevance and the rigor that John has embedded within the curriculum. As a member of the school’s literacy committee, John has embraced the teaching of reading and writing as part of the auto program.
“Students are taught strategies on how to successfully access technical text, and write effectively when describing solutions to technical problems. He has a strong belief in the capability of his students. As such, he requires students to think and expects quality work. His passion for teaching, the energy, commitment, and dedication he puts into each day is nothing short of remarkable.”
Sandvig given Ignatian Award
Nicole Sandvig, a sophomore at Gonzaga Prep, was awarded the Ignatian Service Award last month. Nicole is the daughter of Ryan and Suzanne Sandvig.
The Ignatian Service Award honors students who best represent the Ignatian spirit of community service.
Neil Kempen, director of community service at Prep, nominated Nicole for this award. Kempen stated, “Nicole is still picking up speed. Some students, as they advance through the younger grades, slow down in terms of their community involvement. On the other hand, Nicole seems to be gaining momentum as she advances forward. Nicole is most certainly deserving of this award for all that she has done for Key Club and for the community at large.”
Nicole’s commitment to volunteerism and active involvement in school are evident in her list of accomplishments: President of Key Club, her work for Habitat for Humanity, she’s a commended tutor through the National Honor Society, a member of Ancilla, she volunteers at the Second Harvest Food Bank, Ronald McDonald House, St. Margaret’s Hall, Head Start and Garry Middle School, has worked with developmentally disabled, and the English as a Second Language program.
St. George’s presents ‘Birdie’
High school drama students at St. George’s School will perform the musical “Bye, Bye Birdie” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, 7 p.m. April 29 and 7:30 p.m. April 30 in Founders Theater on the St. George’s campus, 2929 W. Waikiki Road.
Tickets are $3 for adults, $2 for K-12 students, free for preschoolers. To reserve tickets, call 466-1636.
There is also an opening reception for the Senior Art Exhibit at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, just before the first performance. The exhibit runs through May 9 in the Gilbert Art Gallery at the school.
Home schooling workshop
Northwest Christian Home Education Services will present “Preparing for a Successful Home School Year,” a workshop for home school parents and those considering home schooling from 7 to 9 p.m., Monday in the school lunchroom at the Colbert campus, 5104 E. Bernhill Road.
NWC Home School Coordinator Vickie Grewe will lead the workshop. The evening will also include information about accessing the services available through NWC Home Education Program.
The program will be expanding in the 2005-06 school year to include students from K-12. Services available to families include Home School Club, a weekly enrichment day for home schooled students that focuses on hands-on active learning; the Grades and Transcripts Program, where students can earn a distance leaning diploma from NWC; and Distance Learning classes, where classes are offered via the Internet.
For more information about the workshop or NWC Home Education Services, contact Vickie Grewe at 238-4005, ext. 144, or e-mail vgrewe@nwcs.org.