Inside our Schools : Student sings music teacher’s praise
Music teacher Julie Johnson was named Numerica’s School Champion of the Month last week during a surprise school assembly at Sorensen Elementary School in Coeur d’Alene.
Johnson splits her time between Sorensen and Fernan elementary schools.
Sorensen second-grader Annelise Helbling nominated Johnson for the award, citing what she learns from Johnson and how she feels when she goes home as reasons her teacher should be honored.
“I learn lots of songs and come home feeling great,” Annelise said in her essay. “I am glad she’s at this school because I love to sing.”
Annelise’s parents also chimed in on the nomination.
“Mrs. Johnson helped Annelise feel confident enough to sing a solo in front of the whole school,” the girl’s parents wrote.
Johnson has taught music in the Coeur d’Alene School District for more than 20 years. She was described in a news release from Numerica as being “calm and mild-mannered, most of the time.”
Johnson accepted the award in front of the Sorensen student body as her husband and school officials looked on.
A Numerica representative dropped hints before introducing Johnson to see if the students could guess the winner.
It seemed to work, as more and more arms sprang up after clues such as “was raised on a farm” and “dad was a principal” were read. The final two clues – that Johnson works at two schools and is a music teacher – were the giveaways.
“I love my job,” Johnson said. “I don’t think any job could be more fun than my job.”
For the teachers and students who didn’t win anything and weren’t showered with attention in front of the entire school, Principal David Miller offered words of comfort.
Johnson “represents, to me, all the teachers who work hard to do their best every day,” Miller said. “And Annelise represents, to me, all of you (students).”
Annelise received $25 for her winning essay, along with two passes to Silverwood Theme Park. She also will be entered in a drawing for an iPod.
Johnson received a $45 gift certificate to Outback Steakhouse, a gift bag, a recognition plaque and two passes to Silverwood.
The school will receive $100 to be used how Johnson wishes.
Johnson is the last North Idaho school employee who will claim the title of Numerica School Champion of the Month this school year. The award will be on hiatus for the summer.
Seniors earn scholarships
Three seniors have earned scholarships from the state Board of Education.
Michelle Gustafson, a student at Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy, won the Robert R. Lee Promise Scholarship. The $3,000 award is renewable up to four years and is good at state-funded schools in Idaho.
Charter senior Julian Lemke and Lake City High School senior Leah Almeida won the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship. The scholarship is worth up to $1,500 and is renewable for four years.