Meet our 2003 Volunteers of the Year

Adult Learning Center - Chiyomi Nakajima

As a former English as a Second Language (ESL) student herself, this outstanding volunteer has a unique understanding of the needs of the ESL students she tutors. Ms. Nakajima is a role model and a lifelong learner who enriches the program immensely.

Adult Learning Center - Mike Dinniman

Mr. Dinniman has a way of making math seem "easy" that endears him to his Adult Basic Education students. His easy-going manner and confidence in his students' abilities provide him the rapport he needs to help them succeed.

Alanton Elementary - Tammy Nelson

Ms. Nelson has "done it all" at Alanton. Since 1976, she has served as PTA president, treasurer, recruiter, mentor, and board ember, while also co-chairing the fundraising, variety show, and numerous other committees. She is an incredible asset!

Arrowhead Elementary - Lisa Rudiger

Examples of Ms. Rudiger's innovative leadership are her expansion of the PTA's role in education, her aintenance of partnerships with PTA presidents in Ireland and her key role in the Kempsville Connection, just to scratch the surface of her involvement.

Bayside Elementary - Lisa Sproat

Ms. Sproat has "breathed new life" into the PTA in many ways, including the launch of the "Uniting Through Reading" program and the creation of a volunteer and donor database, allowing effcient access to community talents and resources.

Bayside High - William Owen, M.D.

I wish I could do more, is his constant mantra, yet Dr. Owen has been the prime volunteer mover in the creation of Bayside's Health Sciences Academy. A pediatric oncologist/hematologist and adjunct professor at EVMS, he still finds time for Bayside.

Bayside Middle - Jody Clifton

A dedicated volunteer for the Bayside MS band program, Ms. Clifton has been instrumental in all areas of service. She has assisted with field trips, equipment and uniform acquisition, fundraising, and even created a website to keep band parents informed.

Birdneck Elementary - Stella Hoopes

Ms. Hoopes was the volunteer key to making sure that the school had a yearbook this year. It became "an obsession" for her because, as she learned when her son's school failed to publish a yearbook, "Those kind of memories are very important to us."

Brandon Middle - Maggie Fitzgerald

What would Brandon do without Maggie? is a common cry among staff. Ms. Fitzgerald is a volunteer whose impact is felt throughout the school. She is a fixture in teacher workrooms and is a willing hand for any job. Her "I'm here to help!" is sincere.

Brookwood Elementary - Kim Vasta

The list of Ms. Vasta's volunteer services is amazing. She serves on Brookwood's PTA board, attends meetings and functions, creates the monthly newsletter, helps teachers prepare materials, and still finds time to help with classroom activities. Wow!

Center for Effective Learning - Bill Reckling

Mr. Reckling redefines the term "hall monitor." He assists students, staff, parents and visitors with his "soothing" presence. Keenly alert and compassionate, he knows when anyone on the front hall was last seen and what s/he was doing.

Centerville Elementary - Mary Ann Villies

The "very visible" Ms. Villies is deemed “invaluable.” This “extremely motivated” volunteer inspires others to do their best by her example. Known for being fair, kind, diplomatic and impartial, Ms. Villies' efforts "permeate every area of volunteerism."

Central Office - Steve Morgan

From serving on 3 school planning councils and the VBCPS Partnership Advisory Link to offering his business, ZERO'S at Birchwood, as a partner to 7 schools, Mr. Morgan has been an active advocate and supporter of public education for the past 7 years.

Christopher Farms Elementary - Robin Mounce

A tutor in the SOL remediation program and an assistant in the clinic, the "adaptable" Ms. Mounce is a "team player" with a "can-do" spirit whose volunteer duties run the gamut to include assisting in classrooms, offices, on committees and more.

College Park Elementary - Wilson Sawyer III

Hardworking and dedicated to issues concerning children's welfare, Officer Sawyer, a policeman, joins CPES students for lunch on a regular basis, mentoring children and peaking with them about making good choices, as well as career possibilities.

Cooke Elementary - Kathy Sherman

A quiet wonder with a unique knack of showing up just when assistance is needed tops the volunteer resume of Ms. Sherman. If she is involved in coordinating an activity, its success is all but assured. She is not just a helper; she is a friend.

Corporate Landing Elementary - Lori O'Brien

Artistic and creative with an eye for detail, Ms. O'Brien has given countless hours to Corporate Landing Elementary's music program. Whether preparing birthday grams or scripting the PTA variety show, her dedication brings out the best in others.

Corporate Landing Middle - Susan Bustos

Whether it's a student play, a staff appreciation, or a highly successful Parent Participation Day, Ms. Bustos is sure to be in he middle of it. Dedicated, ependable, and personable, she is the type of volunteer every school wants to grace its halls.

Cox High - Ellen Myers

The word "no" does not exist in Ms. Myers' vocabulary. Described as a perpetual helper, her touch can be seen throughout Cox High, from working with the Band Boosters to prepping a newsletter for mailing. She can always be counted on.

Creeds Elementary - Leslie Saunders

Though her positive impact is widely felt at Creeds Elementary, perhaps Ms. Saunders most outstanding contribution is her chairmanship of the Hospitality Committee, including monthly appreciation luncheons and birthday/holiday cards for faculty and staff.

John B. Dey Elementary - Laurie Francis

If Ms. Francis has a speciality, it is organizing spectacular events that bring the John B. Dey community closer together. A science fair, a multicultural evening, and the school's Writer-In-Residence program owe her their unqualified success.

Fairfield Elementary - Mary Sue Szkalak

Ms. Szkalak is a "driving force" behind most every PTA event. Among the most significant contributions of this "inspiration to all" is her coordination of "incredible cultural arts programs," especially those presented by the Virginia Opera.

First Colonial High - Billy Gilpin, Ph.D.

Motivated by a sincere desire to help young people, Dr. Gilpin has tutored First Colonial students in advanced mathematics for 30-40 hours per week for four years, providing an estimated $100,000+ in services at no cost, with no expectation of reward.

Glenwood Elementary - Ari Muise

She's here, she's there, she's everywhere offering her unique brand of conscientious assistance to anyone in need at Glenwood Elementary. Students throughout the school enjoy the benefits of the Accelerated Reader program thanks to Ms. Muise.

Great Neck Middle - Paula Naquin

The love Ms. Naquin feels for Great Neck MS motivates her to share her leadership, patience and understanding with the staff, parents and children via PTA, Band Booster, SOL tests, front office and the library.

Green Run High - Sally Jackson

Give a hip, hip hooray for Ms. Jackson, dedicated to Green Run and its cheerleading squad. She attends all the games, fund-raises, and prepares meals for the team. As an active member of PTSA, she is always ready to lend a hand or a pom pom.

Hermitage Elementary - Jowain Brinkley

Ms. Brinkley has brought the vast knowledge of a veteran teacher and the loving warmth of a grandmother to her volunteerism, including her key role in the successful launch of a mentorship program with members of the military.

Holland Elementary - Neil Lehman

This 10-year volunteer works in Holland Elementary's library. By shelving books and making minor repairs, even during summer vacation, he serves Holland with the same dedication as that with which he served our country during the WWII battle of Iwo Jima.

Independence Middle - Denise Montgomery

Spirited and tenacious, Ms. Montgomery volunteers for Independence Middle with her infant son, Timothy, in tow. Aside from her contributions as VIE Coordinator, she provides administrative volunteer support for a team of teachers.

Indian Lakes Elementary - Gail Terry

The loyal and trustworthy Ms. Terry makes her love of books and her welcome presence felt by reading to students, working in the library, helping with the book fair, assisting in a kindergarten classroom and more.

Kellam High - Susan Thuma

Ms. Thuma shares her talents with two other PTA Boards in addition to Kellam High, where she works with the Booster Club, maintains the concession stand and serves on the Celebrate Life committee.

Kemps Landing Magnet - Leslie Blain

Quiet and caring, Ms. Blain's greatest impact has been on the life science program, including purchasing and maintaining a green house, assuming the primary caretaking role of the class animals and acquariums, holding seminars and Club meetings and more.

Kempsville Elementary - Kelly Dillon

Ms. Dillon can "change the demeanor of those around her just by saying, 'good morning.'" This "jack-of-all-trades" is a founding member of the Kempsville Connection, a partnership of 12 Kempsville schools whose first annual event drew 3,000 people.

Kempsville High - Rosemary Flamman

Ms. Flamman "approaches her volunteer work in a very unassuming and unselfish manner and consequently 'gets the job done' without a lot of fanfare." But her fans at Kempsville High School think she deserves it.

Kempsville Middle - Mary Rumble

Besides a full compliment of PTA roles, KMS Guidance Advisory Committee membership and drama club assistance, "Reliable Rumble" has set new membership/fundraising records, including initiating involvement in valuable corporate incentive programs.

Kempsville Meadows Elementary - Warren Weiss

Like a 'pace car' at a car race, Mr. Weiss sets the standard for other who volunteer. In addition to tutoring students, he serves on the Kempsville Meadows Elementary Planning Council, and has offered invaluable assistance to teachers and staff.

King's Grant Elementary - Suzie Miller

An astute problem-solver, Ms. Miller has assisted in diverse areas of KGES, from guidance to PE to Just Say No meetings, to name but a few. A well-respected, longtime community member, knowledgeable about all areas of KGES, she is a "sterling" volunteer.

Kingston Elementary - Anne Marie Agola

Ms. Agola exemplfies all that is good in a school volunteer. An example of her energy, enthusiasm, and "for the kids" spirit is best exhibited when she dresses as the Cat in the Hat for Kingston's annual Dr. Seuss birthday celebration.

Landstown Elementary - Glenna Klabnik

Time. It is something precious that most of us hold dear. For Ms. Klabnik, it is the greatest gift that she gives to the staff and students of Landstown Elementary. With her long pony tail swaying, she is always at the school looking for ways to help.

Landstown High - Ed Morris

An ITT Technical Institute professor, Mr. Morris has adopted the LHS Robotics team, spending nights, weekends and summers instructing students in robotics, AutoCAD, pneumatics, leadership and more in reparation for the FIRST Robotics Competition.

Landstown Middle - Shelly Jones

A selfless individual, Ms. Jones devotes her energies to accomplishing the near impossible. From chairing the PTA Reflections contest to raising funds for the school to getting people involved, she exemplfies all that is right about volunteerism.

Larkspur Middle - Eulalia Hurley

What can you say about a person who helps organize a step team and who takes on the daunting task of teaching sixth-graders how to tie neckties? Just that, as a volunteer, Ms. Hurley always goes beyond the call of duty with great success.

Linkhorn Park Elementary - Kaytren Palacios

It is said that Ms. Palacios "makes you feel special," though the school thinks she is very special too. Serving in countless ways, from classrooms to carnival concessions, she is perhaps best known for her cracker-jack fundraising.

Luxford Elementary - Teri Shaeffer

No job is too large or too small for Ms. Schaeffer. She continues to find ways to motivate and excite children, making the learning process fun and rewarding. Her continued dedication to Luxford's students helps them to feel cherished and valued.

Lynnhaven Elementary - Rose Brown

It began with working a cotton candy machine during a spring carnival. Since that fateful day, Ms. Brown and Lynnhaven Elementary have become inseparable. From setting a serve in volleyball to making copies, she makes each day memorable at LES.

Lynnhaven Middle - Vivian Payne

Focusing on helping former Lynnhaven Middle students prepare for successful futures, Ms. Payne manages successful fundraising campaigns, raising thousands of dollars to fund scholarships for college. Her impact is priceless.

Malibu Elementary - Bobbi Rush

First grade is a little easier at Malibu Elementary thanks largely to the efforts of Ms. Rush. From learning to operate office technology to giving bulletin boards that special touch, she enhances student learning. She is a role model for all of us.

New Castle Elementary - Kevin Burns

Mr. Burns is indeed a special person. In addition to being a role model for students through his job as a firefighter, he logs countless hours doing the small things that make a wide variety of school activities successful, always seeking to do more.

Newtown Road Elementary - Rumel Johnson

Volunteering at Newtown Road Elementary has been a revelation for Ms. Johnson. She has donated more and more of her time and support to the students and their pursuit of educational excellence. She is a positive influence on everyone.

North Landing Elementary - Dayna Kiley

Ms. Kiley's love of children and written words is combined in her chairmanship of the Accelerated Reader program, production of the school newsletter and volunteer help in the school library. Colleagues attribute her success, in part, to her patience.

Ocean Lakes Elementary - Donna O'ney

Always "at the right place at the right time," Ms. O'ney has impacted the OLES quality of life through, in part, her implementation of many new and innovative practices, as well as her devotion of "endless" hours to the first grade inclusion classroom.

Ocean Lakes High - James Orloff

Having logged over 1000 hours at OLHS this year alone, Mr. Orloff's "calm, capable deameanor," not to mention his"enthusiasm and skill" have made him indispensable to the school library, the computer labs and the SOL testing process.

Old Donation Center - Mindy Havel

Equally effective and fair at both grassroots and board levels, assisting with everyday needs and large events, Ms. Havel's most outstanding accomplishment this year may be leading ODC to their division's highest percentage of PTA membership, statewide.

Open Campus High - Roz Miltier

A positive role model for OCHS's unique population, Ms. Miltier has made her greatest impact in the area of work force readiness, spending many hours coaching students in resume writing, interviewing techniques and tips for thriving in the business world.

Parkway Elementary - Teresa King

With a "happy smile" seen at virtually all school events, Ms. King's greatest impact has perhaps been felt in the computer lab where she devotes four days per week to organizing, improving work stations, and assisting and encouraging students.

Pembroke Elementary - Sharon Holmes

Described by many as "quiet," Ms. Holmes' impact on Pembroke Elementary is something to shout about. Involved in virtually every area of the school, she displays a generosity and willingness to help, at a moment's notice, that is described as "peerless."

Pembroke Meadows Elementary - Ewell Rooks

Through his dedication as school store manager, third grade classroom assistant (concentrating on remediation and enrichment) and gifted solicitor of material and financial donations, it is said that Mr. Rooks helps "each child become a better person."

Plaza Elementary - Mona Davis

With "no" and "I can't," absent from her vocabulary, Ms. Davis is said to be "one of the first to arrive and the last to leave" for any of the myriad events in which she is involved. This PTA "cornerstone" makes her positive influence broadly felt.

Plaza Middle - Bonnie Brown

Ms. Brown's cheerful professionalism is said to permeate her work in the many capacities in which she serves, including the Guidance Department, where she is fondly considered an "honorary" staff member.

Point O'View Elementary - Alan Hagerman

Mr. Hagerman's "can-do" attitude makes him the "go-to" guy at POVES. This "jack of all trades" has been dubbed "Mr. PTA" at the school, where he is valued for both his brains ("brainstorming") and brawn ("manpower").

Princess Anne Elementary - Sharon Helmke

The "consumate" volunteer, Ms. Helmke's influence is felt inside and outside the school, from special events to landscaping. A master at cleaning and organizing, she has lent her special touch to all the major challenges, including the "dreaded shed."

Princess Anne High - Sheryl Yaconiello

Described as a "second mother" to the PAHS NJROTC cadets, Ms. Yaconiello prepares uniforms, chaperones trips, and organizes social events and fundraisers. Her steadfast efforts paid off when the cadets captured first place at the Area 5 championships.

Princess Anne Middle - Sandy Tainter

This go-getter is an integral part of PAMS's success in both parental involvement and student enrichment. Ms. Tainter's most outstanding achievement is perhaps her leadership in the attainment of 85% membership in a school of over 1,500 students.

Providence Elementary - Debbie Friedler

A "quiet workhorse," Ms. Friedler's "mere presence can brighten someone's day." Because she is invaluable in so many diverse capacities, principal Jennifer Carstens confessed that "There are weeks when I am embarrassed that she is not on the payroll."

Red Mill Elementary - Stacie Noffsinger

The "upbeat" Ms. Noffsinger serves in a multitude of capacities, including the coordination of monthly Decorated Dolphin Assemblies. She has spread her passion for volunteerism to her family who helps develop and maintain the science yard.

Rosemont Elementary - Fred Hampton

Described as the "backbone" of the Executive Board at RES, Mr. Hampton is also known as a "caring individual," widely involved in PTA events and enthusiastically commited to facilitating enhanced communication among members of the RES community.

Rosemont Forest Elementary - Linda Ahrens

…one of those remarkable volunteers that seeps into the fabric of a school, Ms. Ahrens serves cheerfully in many capacities. However, she is perhaps most valued for what has been described as her role of "constant relief worker" or "pinch hitter."

Salem Elementary - Shelley Johnson

One who sets and accomplishes her volunteer goals, Ms. Johnson has made her contagious enthusiasm felt most especially in the special education program where she has improved the day-to-day environment and helps students understand challenging concepts.

Salem High - Skip Heyman

Mr. Heyman, a two-time president of the Atheletic Boosters, is said to use his "infectious energy" to "make it happen" for students, parents, coaches and dministrators, alike. Though busy with this demanding role, he serves in other capacities, as well.

Salem Middle - Joanne Bryant

The widely-involved Ms. Bryant's energetic enthusiasm is perhaps most dramatically felt in her chairmanship of the Box Tops for Education drive, which she has expanded and improved, generating significant dollars and boosting school spirit.

Seatack Elementary - Alice Dyke

A valued member of the 1st grade team, Ms. Dyke "helps turn on the lights of knowledge and in-depth understanding"by assisting in classrooms. Through her direct involvement with the students, she instills in them the "faith that they can succeed."

Shelton Park Elementary - Gayle Kynett

Of her many roles at the school, perhaps none have made more of an impact than Ms. Kynett's leadership in opening and maintaining the SPES SOL-based Science Lab, unless it is increasing PTA membership by 46% over last year.

Strawbridge Elementary - Wanda Irwin

Described as "putting the K in kindness," Ms. Irwin is known for offering "her hands and heart" to manage small details that impact large numbers. She is efficient and dependable with both unglamorous tasks and those that showcase her creativity.

Tallwood Elementary - Kathleen Walker

Ms. Walker "is all about …spending her time and energy to help insure that all of Tallwood's children enjoy quality educational and family time," through a variety of special events and recognitions. When she accepts a job, "it is done to perfection."

Tallwood High - Barbara Wood

… considered a part of our family here at Tallwood, Ms. Wood continues to serve as co-sponsor of the Key Club, as she has for the past eight years, despite her children having graduated. Her leadership is "key" to managing this large and active club.

Technical & Career Education Center - Ronald Menia

An "influential ambassador" and catalyst for career and technical education, Mr. Menia has, for a decade, proven invaluable in creating and enhancing workforce readiness programs, including internships, apprenticeships and career-entry opportunities.

Thalia Elementary - Tammy Desnoyers

With both "style" and a "smile," Ms. Desnoyers is known for flexibility and follow-through whether doing copy room, cafateria or classroom duty, to name but a few. Her car, a semi-permanent fixture in the parking lot, is often used to take work home.

Thoroughgood Elementary - Leslie Horton

Embodying the "spirit of the organization" at her school, and helping in virtually all areas, Ms. Horton spearheaded Thoroughgood's successful bid for a coveted National PTA School of Excellence Award for Parent Involvement (one of four in the state).

Trantwood Elementary - Tracy Kunzler

Known for her finesse and "artistic flair," Ms. Kunzler shares her "gift of creativity" as Publicity/Media Liaison, on virtually all of the school's PTA committees, and through her work with the Artist-in-Residence program and the Variety and Art Shows.

Virginia Beach Middle - Barbara Chegin

As the mother of triplets at VBMS, it is no wonder that Ms. Chegin has earned a reputation for "efficiency." Helping out with a variety of events, including athletic "boosting," her efforts to keep PTA members informed of PTA news are"vital."

White Oaks Elementary - Sherry Ebey

She is here for the good of those who need her most. That is an apt description for Ms. Ebey. A dedicated volunteer, she has increased her time in the school to help more students become successful readers. Her value to White Oaks is immeasurable.

Williams Elementary - Eliana Zuluaga

The "spine" of the school library, Ms. Zuluaga accomplishes diverse tasks easily and enthusiastically, always respectful and pleasant to all. She is valued as much for her winning smile as for her dependability, promptness and work ethic.

Windsor Oaks Elementary - Mickey Craddock

Through her work as a tutor, especially in math and language arts, Ms. Craddock positively impacts student achievement and self-esteem. The faculty likes and respects her, and the students "just love her," always looking forward to her arrival.

Windsor Woods Elementary - Liz Tabor

Instrumental in revitalizing the PTA, increasing membership and raising funds, Ms. Tabor is also tireless in her efforts to obtain donations and support of school events from area businesses, with one relationship leading to a grant award for DARE.

Woodstock Elementary - Maryjane Root

This gentle and loving first grade tutor "helps students spread their wings to fly into second grade," by working with them, at their own pace and in their own style, to develop the necessary skills and self-confidence to succeed.