Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/766038
BACK TO SCHOOL | WEAnews 12 Longtime WEA Member and Past WEA Treasurer Honored with NFIE Award Jon VanOverbeke is the recipient of the NEA Foundation for the Improvement of Education's (NFIE) Award for Teaching Excellence sponsored by California Casualty – one of the nation's most prestigious honors for public educators. The Wyoming Education Association nominated VanOverbeke for the honor after colleagues wrote letters on his behalf. Jon is headed to China in June 2017 and says, "It's important for us as the United States not to get stuck on or in our own education systems, and that if we can have our students learn standards and curriculum, but have a better understanding of cultures around the world, they will be better off in the long run." Jon said he's very excited for the trip as he's only been out of the country once, but has never been to Asia. "It was 30 years ago, and a totally different continent, so I'm looking forward to looking at the school system there, and touring different historical sites," he said. "His devotion to education and issues around education encouraged me to become an involved member in the Association," said Patti Krakow, the teacher who nominated VanOverbeke for the award. Jon has taught third, fourth and fifth grades in Laramie County School District #1 for 25 years. He has taught at both Hebard and Henderson Elementary Schools, and currently teaches fourth grade at Henderson. WEA President Kathy Vetter said the WEA is thrilled that California Casualty has joined us again this year to pay tribute to educators who are making a difference in the lives of students in Wyoming and across the country. VanOverbeke is one of many awardees who will be honored at the NEA Foundation's Salute to Excellence at the Education Gala to be held early next year. Known as the Academy Awards of public education, the gala attracts more than 850 of the nation's leaders from public education, philanthropy, and the private sector. State Representatives Connolly and Pelkey joined a SWEA meeting prior to their successful re-election. They both informed students of the importance of their involvement in the political process, and urged them to testify on issues during the upcoming legislative session. This was a busy semester for the Student Wyoming Education Association University of Wyoming Chapter. WEA Communications Director and State Student Organizer Coleen Haines facilitated numerous learning opportunities for UW SWEA members. During the Spring 2017 semester, SWEA would love to have visits from new, veteran, and retired WEA members. If you're interested in speaking with college students who plan to enter the education profession, please contact Coleen at chaines@wyoea.org. WEA Professional Issues Director Kathy Scheurman held a PRAXIS Prep for SWEA members that was very well attended, and perfectly timed for members to take advantage of some extra learning experience before their tests starting in November. Albany County Education Association Co-President Amy Cass attended a SWEA meeting for a fun Q&A session about things to expect, and things you'd never expect, when you first enter the classroom. SWEA said goodbye to outgoing officers, who will be student teaching in the spring, and welcomed new officers with a dinner in Laramie.