Meet our 2005 Volunteers of the Year
Adult Learning Center - Pat Healy
Tutoring math students every Tuesday and Thursday, Mr. Healy gives of his time and expertise without reservation. His dedicated volunteerism over the past six years has "strengthened the instructional program at the ALC."
Advanced Technology Center - MSgt. Neil V. Keane
MSgt Keane's coordination of over 20 leadership contests at the VA Air National Guard's Camp Pendleton location afforded ATC students the opportunity to participate in leadership training workshops and leadership competitions. A job well done.
Alanton Elementary - Chris Ritter
From serving root beer floats dressed in a poodle skirt to celebrate 100% PTA Membership to reviving the fifth grade Walk and Talk program, Chris Ritter is always willing to lend a hand. As Alanton's PTA President, her leadership is an inspiration!
Arrowhead Elementary - Jackie Hoover
Always on hand with a kind word and offer of assistance, Jackie Hoover truly cares about Arrowhead students. She is reliable, dependable, and always goes above and beyond the call of duty. "She is a great asset to Arrowhead Elementary."
Bayside Elementary - Karolyn Sveum
An ardent supporter of Bayside's Accelerated Reader program, Mrs. Sveum is known as the school's "expert button maker". She organizes a contest for an AR logo, and makes buttons six times a year for students. Her tireless energy is a true gift to Bayside!
Bayside High - Carol Kownack
A positive influence on all those around her, Mrs. Kownack makes her self available to help wherever she can from the front office to the academy department. She is Bayside's "consummate volunteer."
Bayside Middle - Retha Girley
A direct line to the parents of Bayside MS, Mrs. Girley encourages parental involvement through her role as PTA President. She is truly a jewel in the crown of the PTA parents.
Birdneck Elementary - Shelly Blanshan
Birdneck's newly reorganized Guided Reading room exists due to the efforts of their Volunteer of the Year. She developed a system for checking books in and out, leveled the books, and has evenagreed to run the school's Book Fair. Truly a success story!
Brandon Middle - Shelli Stough
As a mother of four boys, this "can do" volunteer is the driving force behind a 200% increase in PTA membership. Her pride in BMS is infectious and can be seen by passers-by in the "B" shaped flower garden she planted on the front lawn.
Brookwood Elementary - James Aydlett
Mr. Aydlett works tirelessly for Brookwood. Whether organizing the fall carnival, helping with movie nights, spaghetti dinner, and the AR program--or working with students--his activities are summed up by one observer as follows; "This man does it all!"
Center for Effective Learning - Annie Cary
A great sense of humor is key to turning the cafeteria at CEL a "pleasant place to be." Mrs. Cary's positive attitude is infectious and she is dearly loved by both the students and staff.
Centerville Elementary - Toni Ann Ames
Classroom volunteer, organizer extraordinaire, and top notch 'go to' person at Centerville, Tori Ann Ames is outstanding. From organizing Grandparents' Day to coordinating the entire After School Enrichment program, Mrs. Ames always goes above and beyond!
Central Office - Amy Wisilosky
From serving on the district's Partnership Advisory Link to presenting to partnership coordinatorsat Community Relations training, Amy is always willing to go the extra mile in support of Virginia Beach City Public Schools' students and staff.
Christopher Farms Elementary - Sharon Mathews
Quick to praise others and give recognition, but to us, she is our quiet hero and a true super star! These words summarize the sentiments of everyone at Christopher Farms. With over 615 hours already this year, Mrs. Mathews is a tireless volunteer!
College Park Elementary - Andres' Vazquez
Mr. Vazquez's faithful work as a cafeteria monitor is exemplary. Teachers and students have come to love the calm and gentle manner in which this "extraordinarily polite" individual carries out this "thankless" job.
Cooke Elementary - Kerstin Devlin
Whether it's assisting in a classroom or running copies for the teachers, this "effervescent" volunteer lends a hand wherever she is needed at Cooke. A former teacher herself, Mrs. Devlin finds no task too mundane. "She is a gem."
Corporate Landing Elementary - Monnie Joyner
Among her accomplishments, Monnie Joyner's most outstanding achievement this year was her instrumental role in organizing shipment of care packages to troops in Iraq. Under her leadership, the school sent over 600 lbs. of much needed items to our troops!
Corporate Landing Middle - Donna White
Corporate Landing MS has a rare jewel hidden behind thousands of books. The clarity and radiance of a jewel often determines its worth. Donna White is a "jewel that is truly priceless."
Cox High - Lauren Beach
Providing a safe and memorable way to celebrate graduation is the specialty of this volunteer. Having chaired or co-chaired Cox's All Night Grad Party for 3 years, Mrs. Beach's "contribution and dedication to seniors at Cox is immeasurable."
Creeds Elementary - Kellie Williams
Mrs. Williams wears many hats. She helps with technology integration, working with hardware and software. She helps in classrooms as a room parent, and with PTA functions. In the words of a Creeds student, "Mrs. Williams works here 24/7, without pay!"
John B. Dey Elementary - Judy Kurtz
Fairfield Elementary - Martha Hufford
Martha Hufford is a wonderful example of how parents and teachers can work together for the benefit of our children. She has been instrumental in the school's "Take Home Reading" and "Celebrate With A Good Book" programs. Outstanding!
First Colonial High - Laura Ezell
Once lacking in luster, FC's Sports Banquet is now an event athletes are eager to attend thanks to the enthusiastic, tireless work of this motivated volunteer. Mrs. Ezell has hit a homerun with her revitalization of this annual athletic awards event.
Glenwood Elementary - Michele Staskey
An exemplary volunteer whose service "touches every student at Glenwood", Mrs. Staskey assists in her children's classrooms as well as in the art department. Her efforts have provided instructional support to teachers and students alike!
Great Neck Middle - Stevi Sisco
Unable to utter the word "no", this indefatigable volunteer serves on the School Safety Committee, Hospitality Committee, works as an SOL proctor, and runs the Dollars for Scholars fundraising campaign just to name a few. Wow!
Green Run Elementary - Amy Wood
Mrs. Wood is an invaluable asset to Green Run Elementary. From working with students in Kindergarten classrooms to helping teachers with cutting, stapling, and any other required task, Amy Wood is always willing to lend a hand!
Green Run High - Mark Zumbrum
Fine tuning their sound and building their confidences, Mr. Zumbrum's "awesome" influence can be seen in the faces of the Green Run Marching Stallions. His expertise in music and his creativitymakes him a "tremendous asset" to the music program.
Hermitage Elementary - Mary Pagano
During Hermitage's transition to its new building, Mary has been steadfast in her support. Whether packing and unpacking the school library or driving the extra distance to the temporary school site, Mrs. Pagano has been invaluable to Hermitage!
Holland Elementary - Cynthia Carrothers
Dedicated to ensuring SOL success among Holland students, Mrs. Carrothers assumed the mighty task of copying, cutting, laminating, sorting and distributing SOL practice questions to Holland classrooms. This dedicated volunteer certainly makes the grade!
Independence Middle - Sandra Ewell
Raising the bar on newsletter production, this conscientious volunteer exemplifies the motto of IMS with a twist, from "Achieving Starts with Believing" to "Achieving Starts with Being There." This volunteer "soars above the rest."
Indian Lakes Elementary - Tani Cornelius
As a longtime volunteer at Indian Lakes, Tani Cornelius wears many hats. One of her most time consuming tasks this year was to type the titles of HUNDREDS of Accelerated Reader books intothe school's new library cataloguing system. Great job!
Floyd E. Kellam High - Lynn Francois
It's all about the music. Under the direction and coordination of Mrs. Francois, Kellam's "FridayKnight Live" band showcase concerts have been a tremendous hit. Rock on, Mrs. Francois!
Kemps Landing Magnet - Michelle Currier
Michelle's positive nature, contagious smile and unfailing dedication to the staff and students at KLMS is unsurpassed. Her resourcefulness in terms of Staff Appreciation Day makes her a favoriteof the teachers at KLM.
Kempsville Elementary - Grace Sheen
With her gentle, unassuming manner, Mrs. Sheen "accomplishes miracles" at Kempsville. She is an invaluable instructional resource, sharing her cultural heritage with students, and is described as a true "energizer bunny"--still "going strong"!
Kempsville High - Barbara Edoff
Barbara Edoff has been instrumental in coordinating the Reflections contest at Kempsville for at least the past 15 years, is an active PTSA board member, and a contributor to the All Night Drug/Alcohol Free senior celebration. Great job!
Kempsville Middle - Robin Ross
Robin is a lifesaver! Her contribution to all sorts of "thankless" tasks and her commitment to volunteerism is immeasurable. "KMS is lucky to have her!"
Kempsville Meadows Elementary - Elena Haveles
Whether she's helping to get ready for the opening of school, fundraising, running a pancake breakfast or bingo night, or helping with KMES's Discovery program, Elena Haveles is a shining example of the positive difference volunteering makes!
King's Grant Elementary - Mona Denton
Never missing an opportunity to support the students and staff at King's Grant, this remarkable individual "takes her volunteering seriously." Whether it's PTA treasurer or basketball game chair, Mrs. Denton's enthusiasm is contagious
Kingston Elementary - Leslie Crabbs
Leslie Crabbs has accomplished great things at Kingston! Among her most notable achievementsare her work as Chair for the Kingston All-American Run and the After-School Enrichment Program. She is making great things happen at Kingston!
Landstown Elementary - Susan Krevetski
Known to the students at Landstown as "the library lady", Mrs. Krevetski spends every Tuesday stacking and filing books. This "faithful and reliable" volunteer is truly and asset to the library and the students who visit it.
Landstown High - Michele Jones
Michele Jones is a team player, says the wrestling coach at Landstown. Thanks to this volunteer's efforts with the wrestling team and the Robotics Club, both groups were able to reach goals never before attained. Way to go!
Landstown Middle - Debra Anderson
No task is too big or too small for this exceptional volunteer. A wonderful addition to the guidance department, Mrs. Anderson is a prime "example of what a volunteer should be." Kudos to this hard working individual.
Larkspur Middle - Amber Razey
Ms. Razey is "truly instrumental" to the band program. Her organization of sheet music, chaperoning of rehearsals and performances, and her one-on-one work with students during practices make her indispensable to the music instructors at LMS.
Linkhorn Park Elementary - Louise Honig
From Room Mother to the book sale, from the supply closet to the Scholarship Committee, this exceptional individual's impact on the students a Linkhorn can be seen each and every day. "She is a positive influence on everyone."
Luxford Elementary - Becky Hooker
Becky assists the library media specialist by shelving returned books, manning the checkout desk,and helping students with their book selections. She always has a caring smile for each student and shows great kindness towards all.
Lynnhaven Elementary - Anita Gilligan
"Yippy Skippy" says Anita Gilligan, as she walks the halls of Lynnhaven each day. Mrs. Gilligan is known for her whimsical attitude and love of children. Her "can do" attitude and dedicated service have made good things happen at Lynnhaven!
Lynnhaven Middle - Fay Green
Her limitless energies and tireless volunteering in support of Lynnhaven MS and its community have been Mrs. Green's persona for over 3 years. Her commitment is "ongoing and never waivers."
Malibu Elementary - Donna Cheefetz
As treasurer of the Malibu PTA, this "highly responsible" individual has carried out her dutieswith ease and grace. Her work in PTA and in the classroom has been "steadfast and reliable."
New Castle Elementary - Wendy Covert
Responsible, reliable, and hardworking are all words used to describe this dedicated volunteer. Each Thursday, Wendy can be found helping teachers, students, and staff at New Castle. Her dedication to her volunteer efforts is extraordinary!
Newtown Road Elementary - Nicole Wilson
In her first year volunteering at Newtown Road, Nicole has filled many positions, from membershipand VIE to PTA President--organizing a school dance, spirit days, and a PTA membership drive. Her efforts every day are making a difference at Newtown.
North Landing Elementary - Becky Demetriou
When North Landing needs to find twenty volunteers FAST, meet a seemingly impossible deadline, or accomplish the most difficult task, Becky Demetriou is their "go to" person. She leadsby example and make sure events stay focused on children. Great job!
Ocean Lakes Elementary - Melba Ash
A dedicated Golden Circle volunteer, Mrs. Ash shares decades of educational expertise with students, parents and teachers at Ocean Lakes Elementary. Her kind and compassionate interactions with students are truly an embodiment of the "Volunteer Spirit".
Ocean Lakes High - John Trueblood
From President of the Friends of Athletes Club to concession stand coordinator, Mr. Trueblood's dedication to all students at OLHS is unmatched. Staff members say "he is the perfect example of parental support."
Old Donation Center - Donna Moffatt
Going far beyond her duties as PTA President, Mrs. Moffatt has accumulated countless hours of volunteerism at ODC. Truly an advocate for all students, this volunteer is said to be "the backbone of the PTA."
Open Campus High - Lecretia Jennings
A steadfast volunteer for over four years, she has become a regular at the school. Faculty and staff at Open Campus are "thrilled" to honor her commitment to the school.
Parkway Elementary - Lori Tassone
A valuable asset to Parkway, Mrs. Tassone is a daily presence at the school. If there's a job to do,one can be assured that she's involved in planning and implementation. From fundraisers to Bingo and Spaghetti nights, she makes things happen!
Pembroke Elementary - Virginia Zeiders-Ogden
This volunteer goes above and beyond in her service to Pembroke. Her friendly personality and generous 'can do' spirit make her an asset to students and staff alike. She works countless hours at school and from home, and truly gives from the heart.
Pembroke Meadows Elementary - Roberta Vandale
This volunteer works every day in the school's cafeteria, pitching in to help with whatever needs to be done. According to Pembroke Meadows staff, her "giving and willing" spirit makes her an "angel among us".
Plaza Elementary - De Milbourn
This volunteer generously dedicates her time to teachers, staff, and students. She works in classrooms, helps in the clinic, coordinates book fairs, and dips ice cream cones for Student of the Month festivities--all because she truly cares about Plaza.
Plaza Middle - Donna Williams
From greeter to chaperone, from computer expert to fundraiser, Mrs. Williams' heart and hands canbe seen throughout the halls of Plaza Middle. Her versatility makes her "indispensable."
Point O'View Elementary - Raquel Ricci
As chairperson of the Birthday Committee and the Sunshine Committee, this dedicated, hard working volunteer is loved by all. Organization of the wonderful "Thank You" luncheons makes her a favorite of the staff as well.
Princess Anne Elementary - Jackie Alwine
A "visible force" in every event at PAES, this outstanding individual takes on each task with a remarkable determination. Staff and administration alike say "she is a true asset to Princess Anne ES."
Princess Anne High - Corinne Cornwell
In her 12th year as a volunteer in the VBCPS, Mrs. Cornwell has served the PTA in almost every role from VIE Coordinator to President of the PAHS PTSA. Her love for children leads her to follow her heart and become a VBCPS teacher herself.
Princess Anne Middle - Vickie Martinez
Mrs. Martinez' "can do" personality is infectious. Her marked enthusiasm for PA and her dedication as hospitality chairperson makes "every person she touches feel special about themselves and their school".
Providence Elementary - Joy Blackmon
A quiet little elf at Providence, Mrs. Blackmon's kind, generous spirit is uplifting to students andstaff. Her hallmark is her ability to anticipate the needs of others and voluntarily try to help make their lives better. Outstanding job!
Red Mill Elementary - Lisa Pascanik
This tireless volunteer has served as coordinator of Red Mill's PREP program for over a year. Thisacademic program provides supplemental SOL lessons to students, and her efforts have led to thecreation of 220 hands-on lessons for the PREP program!
Rosemont Elementary - James Lawrence
With over 400 hours of volunteer service, Mr. Lawrence is always willing to lend a hand. From rewiring the PTA popcorn machine, to setting up the sound system for programs, to helping out anywhere in the school, Mr. Lawrence is a "can do" volunteer!
Rosemont Forest Elementary - Karen Lewis
Karen Lewis showed her dedication to SOL success by creating Social Studies flashcards for every student in third grade. Each week, students receive a new set of cards to use in reviewing for the SOL tests. Thanks to Mrs. Lewis for her tireless efforts!
Salem Elementary - Teri DeBerry
A tireless advocate for Salem, Mrs. DeBerry made sure that PTA had 100% membership. She also spends countless hours in classrooms, and recently helped organize the school's talent show and Fall Carnival. She makes things happen at Salem!
Salem High - Robin Anders
If there's a hot dog to be sold, inventory to be counted, or brainstorming being done for a fundraiser you'll find Mrs. Anders in the middle of the action. This "powerhouse mom" has had an impact on the Booster Club as well as the students at SHS.
Salem Middle - Carol Link
This list of areas of involvement in PTA is too lengthy to mention for this extraordinary volunteer. An "advocate for public education", this dedicated individual is a true "cheerleader" for the success of Salem Middle School.
Seatack Elementary - Lindsay Barnett
Conscientious, well organized, and self motivated, Mrs. Barnett goes above and beyond the callof duty at Seatack. As a result of her work in the school's AHAA initiative, Seatack students have benefited in innumerable ways. Great work!
Shelton Park Elementary - Theresa Spare
This "ball of dynamite is truly a volunteer for all seasons." Whether it's setting up computer programs, making copies, or filling in bubble sheets, this energetic volunteer completes every task with a smile. Kids say she's a "real cool dude."
Strawbridge Elementary - Barbara Smith
Selfless and devoted, Barbara Smith gives her heart and hands to the students at Strawbridge. Her effects can be found in the classroom, in the library, in the copy room, and in the cafeteria maintaining the AR wall, just to name a few.
Tallwood Elementary - Jennifer Salmons
Instrumental in coordinating events such as the Holiday Gift Shop, school fundraisers, Family Movie Nights, and Breakfast With Santa, Jennifer Salmons is the consummate volunteer. Her dedication to Tallwood is outstanding!
Tallwood High - Barbara Bankes
Mrs. Bankes' dependability is extraordinary! Serving as treasurer of the PTSA, this leader is key to the organization of most fundraisers at Tallwood HS. Peers and staff agree that "she is a super individual!"
Technical and Career Education Center - Chef Patrick Reed
This certified chef has spent countless, unselfish hours supporting and enriching the Tech Center's Culinary Arts Program. His unique ability to meet, greet, and communicate with high school students is unparalleled. Bravo!
Thalia Elementary - James Grix
This faithful volunteer shows up every day to help students to their afternoon buses. His dependability and politeness has helped him build a great rapport with both the faculty and the students at Thalia.
Thoroughgood Elementary - Kristin Byerly
Epitomizing the "Essence of volunteerism", this volunteer made a lasting impact. With a smile and a willing spirit, Mrs. Byerly served in classrooms, on committees, and in countless ways before moving to Japan earlier this year. She will be missed!
Trantwood Elementary - Cheryl Langelier
Top Notch! "The most selfless person I've ever met!" "Students and teachers love her!" All these accolades are from Cheryl's fans at Trantwood Elementary. Having served Trantwood in multiple ways, she is a treasured asset to the school.
Virginia Beach Middle - Barbara Taliaferro
Taking PTA membership to levels that it has never been before, Mrs. Taliaferro, through her contagious enthusiasm leads the way to a renewed excitement and pride in VB Middle.
Virginia Beach Central Academy - Wilda Cuninghame
Flexibility in working with the teachers, students, and the public has earned Mrs. Cuninghame an"enviable reputation" as an outstanding volunteer as VBCA. Her positive attitude and love of artand children are reflected in everything she does.
White Oaks Elementary - Diane Fontaine
Always on hand with a smile and a kind word for students, staff, and parents, Diane Fontaine is dependable and professional. Her willingness to help and pitch in with any task has earned the trust of the entire school community at White Oaks.
Williams Elementary - Eliana Zuluaga
This parent volunteers her time each week assisting the students in the library. She is an active member of the School Planning Council in all school events. Mrs. Zuluaga works in other areas of the school including her son and daughter's classroom.
Windsor Oaks Elementary - Karen Richards
A "quiet but faithful" volunteer for the past eleven years, Mrs. Richards makes an enormous impact at the school. What's even more amazing about her service is that her children have all grown up and moved on--yet she's still there! Well done!
Windsor Woods Elementary - Charlotte Ziegler
Constantly seeking ways to encourage the children to get involved in the world around them, Mrs. Ziegler implemented and runs the recycling program at Windsor Woods. This has been highly successful due to this volunteer's resourcefulness.
Woodstock Elementary - Paula Farley
From serving on the School Planning Council and the PTA Board to working with students, Paula Farley is a tireless and dedicated volunteer. Students and staff at Woodstock know that they can count on her to help with any job!