Parkview Elementary's Kerry Kowalczyk Named Novi's Teacher of the Year

Kerry Kowalczyk, first grade teacher at , has built a great reputation for connecting with her students through interactive, hands-on approaches to learning. The parents love it, her students love it and the loves it.

That’s why Kowalczyk was named 2012 Novi Teacher of the Year. District officials and supporters surprised her with the presentation of the title in her classroom Monday afternoon.

“Kerry exemplifies the word 'leadership,' said Superintendent Dr. Steve Matthews. “She is a leader amongst her peers. She tries a new idea, tweaks it if necessary, and then shares it with her teammates, her building and the district.”

Kowalczyk is a graduate of Central Michigan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science and Education degree (with elementary school certification) in 1991. Later, she earned her master's in teaching from Oakland University.

As part of the nominating process, Kowalczyk received many admiring comments and tributes from her fellow teachers, co-workers, parents, students and former students.

“Kerry Kowalczyk is a model teacher when it comes to having patience when working with students and for going the extra mile,” wrote fellow teacher Bridget Zahradnik in the nomination application. “I have been teammates with Kerry for 11 years, and I still find myself learning from her every day, every year.

“When it comes to all of her students, Kerry will not accept anything less than her personal best. She always goes above and beyond in her lesson planning and execution and in the materials she creates. She holds her students to high expectation, yet always demonstrates the necessary patience to help them meet their highest potential.”

Kowalczyk believes in using technology in her learning environment, specifically the SmartBoard and .

“Children love Mrs. Kowalczyk,” wrote parent Kimberly Zecman. “Mrs. Kowalczyk takes time to get to know each student as an individual. As a result, she is able to provide the kind of individualized and differentiated instruction essential to great teaching."

“Mrs. Kowalczyk is patient, gentle, caring and kind,” Zecman added. “During her literacy centers, students are free moving, able to make educational choices and they work very hard. Mrs. Kowalczyk makes time to take care of the students like they are her own children.”

As part of the award, Kowalczyk earned a free one-year lease on a vehicle from automotive dealership group.