'Salute' celebrates teachers

Fifteen teachers have been selected as outstanding educators for the 2012 Salute to Education reception on Friday, May 11, at the Sonoma Community Center. Teachers will be recognized for outstanding achievement in key programs funded by the Sonoma Valley Education Foundation. The free event begins with a brief wine and cheese reception at 7 p.m.

“We are so glad to have an opportunity to recognize the dedication and success of our local teachers,” said SVEF Executive Director Laura Zimmerman. “We are thrilled to have Salute to Education back in action.”

Teachers will be honored in several categories. For outstanding work in the Exploratorium Science Project: Craig Madison, Gennifer Caven, and Tim Curley; for exceptional teamwork in the Visual Thinking Strategies Art Program: the Sassarini First Grade Teaching Team of Debbie Bacher, Victoria Silberman, Nora Alexander, and Marla Camp; and the Sassarini Kindergarten Teaching Team of Kim Tomasello, Anne Carroll, Ronette Wesson, and Billie Perez.

The list continues with recognition for leadership in the Teacher Support Network (TSN) Program at Sonoma Valley High School: Brigitta Crews and Janet Hansen; for the spirit of innovation in the School Garden Project: Dutch Van Herwynen and Shirley Austin-Peeke.

Early that evening, from 5 to 6 p.m., retiring teachers will also be recognized. The Sonoma Community Center is located at 276 E. Napa St.