PRINCEVILLE — The Rotary Club of Hanalei Bay recently recognized two outstanding North Shore teachers: Christine Bandsma of Kilauea School and Ryan McGill of Hanalei School. The club also recognized the student winner of the 4-way Test Essay Contest, Osheyla
PRINCEVILLE — The Rotary Club of Hanalei Bay recently recognized two outstanding North Shore teachers: Christine Bandsma of Kilauea School and Ryan McGill of Hanalei School.
The club also recognized the student winner of the 4-way Test Essay Contest, Osheyla Ursomarso of Kilauea School.
The Rotary Club acknowledges exceptional teachers every year. In addition to excellent classroom teaching, the Teacher of the Year award honors teachers that go above and beyond, and demonstrate “service above self,” which is the Rotary motto.
“We are proud of all of our North Shore teachers,” said Rotary Board Member Marion Paul. “What makes this award special is the teachers are nominated by their peers. The admiration and respect of their fellow faculty members was apparent in all of the nominations.”
Bandsma is a sixth-grade teacher at Kilauea School. She teaches STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). Her students participated in district and state science fairs this year.
“Bandsma is a warm and dedicated team player, and she can be found working many extra hours helping other faculty and staff members so that all students at Kilauea School succeed,” a news release said.
McGill teaches technology at Hanalei School, from kindergarten to sixth-grade. He produces the “Morning News” broadcast every morning and plays a key role with Robotics.
“McGill is often greeted with ‘high-fives’ and hugs of gratitude from students across the campus,” the release said.
To help students learn how to make difficult decisions, the Rotary sponsors a 4-Way Test Essay Contest. The test is a tool used by Rotarians around the globe to find a solution that works for everyone. It asks four questions: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Is it beneficial to all concerned?
Ursomarso’s winning essay was selected for its thoughtful approach to navigating life’s many challenging situations, including this quote: “The 4-Way Test can be used in the business world and in our personal lives. It will help me in life and will make me a happier person.”
“A hallmark of Rotary clubs worldwide is fostering ethics and core values,” said Mike Dexter Smith, president of Hanalei Bay Rotary. “Our essay contest is a great opportunity for students to practice the 4-Way Test so they’ll know how to use it in their lives.”
