My Mom

My mom recently was awarded the crystal apple award. She doesn't like a lot of "hoopla" surrounding her. So for those of you who don't know my mom is an awesome teacher, her students are always excited to see her out in the community. I've been with her several times, where they go out of their way to say hi. She doesn't usually let her name even be put on these ballots, but this time she forgot and here's the result. Congratualtions Mom.

Elaine Peterson and Craig Harvey

SFJH Crystal Apple Award
Elaine Peterson, SFJH Teacher of Public Speaking and US History was awarded the Crystal Apple Award this week. Craig Harvey of Horace Mann made the presentation which is a special award voted on by the peers of the recipient.Below I have copied some information provided by Elaine’s peers. As you can read, she is very well thought of.
Elaine’s mom was a teacher in Nebo district where she taught and retired from Reese Elementary. Elaine credits her mom’s example and love for teaching as the reason she became a teacher.

Elaine began her teaching career at Spanish Fork High School where she taught for two years. She then took time off to raise her family. She returned to teaching here at Spanish Fork Jr. High. This is her 9th year here.

Elaine has many talents. She is super organized, very technology savvy, and works well with her colleagues. She is always willing to share books, worksheets, ideas, strategies, encouragement, and praise. On top of all of that, she has a great knack for making her classroom a safe and warm learning environment for her students.

Elaine is the head if the History department. As their leader she keeps them on track while offering tons of praise and encouragement. She is always positive and upbeat regardless of the challenges the team faces.

One of the things Elaine is most proud of is starting the Public Speaking program here at this school. Public speaking offers students the chance to gain confidence and valuable experience in speaking in front of an audience.

Her students make the daily announcements at school and have opportunities to make public speeches outside of the school. This year her students will be making speeches at the Naturalization Ceremonies in Salt Lake.

Elaine’s generosity and skills often go without formal recognition, so it is very exciting and a great privilege to honor her publicly with this award.