By Khalida Sarwari
Christie Nielsen was named the Saratoga Union School District’s teacher of the year, according to a statement from Superintendent Lane Weiss.
The second-grade teacher at Argonaut Elementary School also serves as the summer school English language development teacher.
Meanwhile, Beth Kingsley was chosen as the district’s West Valley Association of California School Administrators volunteer of the year.
Nielsen has many years of experience in both primary and upper elementary education. During her nine years at the district, she has taught fifth grade and served on several site and district committees, including the district leadership team, Gifted and Talented Education committee and student to student conference team.
Weiss lauded Nielsen for her “thoughtful and reflective comments” and for being “grounded in her knowledge of best teaching practices.”
“Christie supports the learning of her students by using authentic, ongoing assessments to design instruction for individual students, small groups and her entire class,” Weiss said. “She is sensitive to their social and emotional development needs and provides a myriad of opportunities for students to grow as learners and as members of our school community.”
Kingsley was credited for being an active volunteer in the school community, having served on PTAs, the Saratoga Education Foundation board, Saratoga Music Boosters, Girl Scouts and Measure B campaign. She is the parent of a student at Redwood Middle School and serves as that school’s art docent volunteer, band liaison, band trip chaperone and graduation committee member.
She is also a tireless classroom volunteer and leads two Girl Scout troops, according to Weiss, who commended Kingsley for her “hard work, calm and positive attitude, team spirit, dedication and many hours of contribution to our students and schools.
“We are extremely grateful to Beth for her generous giving of time, talent and support,” Weiss said. “Beth is a positive and strong supporter of all students and our school district. She has had tremendous positive impact in our schools and community.”
Kingsley was honored on May 14 at the West Valley ACSA award ceremony at the Warner Hutton House. Local educators and community leaders will honor Nielsen along with other Santa Clara County teachers of the year at the 46th annual Teacher Recognition Celebration in September.
Link: Argonaut Elementary’s Christie Nielsen named teacher of the year for Saratoga school district
