May 9 from 6-8 p.m
By Keldine Hull
Venice teachers will be recognized for their achievements in education for the 8th annual Venice WAVE Awards on May 9 from 6-8 p.m. Hosted by the Venice Chamber of Commerce Education Committee (VCC), the gala will be held at Coffee Connection, located at 3838 South Centinela Avenue.
The WAVE Awards were founded in 2011 by the VCC to acknowledge educators for their selfless dedication to education and improving the lives of their students.
In a statement from the VCC Education Committee founder Joelle Dumas, said “The WAVE Awards is a constructive event that brings together our leaders in education to honor one teacher from each of our 16 schools/art institutions. The awardees are nominated by their peers, introduced by their principal, afforded a few minutes to speak at the dinner ceremony and receive an award. It is a captivating and moving evening.”
According to the VCC Education Committee, “To co-create a world of cross-cultural understanding and positive communication, in 2019 we emphasize ‘Living Well Together.’ Nominated by their peers, this year’s winning teachers are equitable and connected to their students. They foster empathy and moral independence, tools essential in crafting a meaningful life as a member of our global community.”
Dedicated educators from local schools and organizations were nominated for their above and beyond accomplishments in the classroom that have had a significantly positive impact on their students.
This year’s winners include: Solange Kamgaing from Ecole Claire Fontaine, Sarah Galvan from Beethoven Elementary School, Ling Zhu from Broadway Elementary School, Casey Fichtner from Richland Avenue Elementary School, Eva Cervantes from Short Avenue Elementary School, Ruben Gonzalez from Walgrove Elementary School, Jessica Dunn from Westminster Elementary School, Stayce Harvey from Mark Twain Middle School, Mary Ruth Greene from Venice High School, Kendelle Milton from Venice Community Housing, Stephen John Roth from Venice Skills Center, Shane Basye from the Boys and Girls Club of Venice, Rachel Lash from Neighborhood Youth Association, and Jacinto Astiazaran from Venice Arts.
Recipients of the WAVE awards will be introduced by their principal or fellow colleague and presented with a plaque and gift bag with donations from local sponsoring businesses.
To learn more about how you can get involved, visit: https://www.vcceducationcommittee.org
