A commitment to provide all students with the necessary skills to thrive as 21st century learners, workers, and citizens.
2512 George Mason Drive • P.O. Box 6038 Virginia Beach, Virginia 23456-0038   757.263.1000 • 757.263.1240 TDD

Volunteers

2006 Volunteers of the Year




Hebert Anderson
Adult Learning Center

Hebert Anderson has "tirelessly given time, knowledge, compassion, and understanding" to English for Speakers of Other Languages Program. He is dedicated to the goals of the ALC, and truly cares for students. He has made an "immense difference!"

Cory Gray
Advanced Technology Center

An alumnus of the Virginia Beach Cisco Networking Academy, Cory Gray is a believer in giving back to his alma mater. Through volunteer service to students, service to the Academy's advisory board, and equipment donation, his giving spirit is evident.

Laura Padersky
Alanton Elementary

WOW! This volunteer's enthusiastic fans at Alanton raves that "there has never been a volunteer in the history of volunteers with a more positive, enthusiastic attitude that Laura Padersky!" Clearly, her contribution to Alanton is outstanding. Great work!

Jennifer Konop
Arrowhead Elementary

For Mrs. Konop, volunteering is a full time job! She volunteers at least forty hours a week at the school--often even more. Her contributions are numerous, and her communication skills and unflappable nature make her irreplaceable at Arrowhead. Wow!

Monique Williams
Bayside Elementary

As a student herself, this Virginia Wesleyan volunteer has impressed the Bayside community with her giving spirit and exceptional skills. Volunteering as a mentor and coordinating Bayside's field day makes her a wonderful role model for Bayside students.

Camile Berry
Bayside High

This volunteer's efforts to showcase Bayside High School's band program have been outstanding. Her vision and enthusiasm have strengthened parent and school support and the community at large. Her positive voice for Bayside is heard far and wide!

Amy Woodruff
Bayside Middle

This band parent extraordinaire makes things happen for BMS's band by coordinating all fundraising, concessions, and the phone tree. She works all the football games and handles all the fundraisers. The BMS family says "three cheers for Amy Woodruff!"

Gail Flax
Birdneck Elementary

As the chairperson for the BEAR program at Birdneck, this volunteer supports reading through coordinating and participating in this literacy program. This "unsung hero" at Birdneck can be counted on to get the job done for Birdneck students!

Debbie McCormack
Brandon Middle

A quiet force on the sidelines, she "slips into the school, works her magic, and then slips out again"--but the work she does has definitely been noticed! Described as "zealous, creative and passionate" about volunteering, her work is a gift to Brandon!

Carol Duecker
Brookwood Elementary

Of all the valuable volunteers at Brookwood, this busy mother of five stands out. Her positive attitude, kind attitude toward others, and respect for the VBCPS Code of Ethics make her a shining example for all to follow.

Mike Dailey
Center for Effective Learning

This volunteer acts as a mentor and role model to students in CEL's Teen Living class. With his innovative, hands on approach, students learn to make good choices and deal effectively with emotions. Students look forward to his bi-weekly visits!

Melissa Wasinger
Centerville Elementary

Centerville's Volunteer of the Year has a great relationship with both faculty and students. Her uplifting attitude and cheerful demeanor are constant, as if her adherence to the VBCPS Code of Ethics. She is "considered an asset to Centerville."

Rebecca Masters
Central Office

Since 2002, this animal lover has brought the gentle spirit of canine companionship to schools throughout Virginia Beach. Through the "Listening Ears" program, beginning readers find an accepting and loving audience in a furry friend. A Master-ful program!

Julie Schaeffer
Christopher Farms Elementary

Mrs. Schaeffer's first year as a CFES volunteer has been a grand success! An energetic dynamo who never seeks recognition or attention, she serves the school because she enjoys helping others. She represents volunteerism at its best!

Stacie Dayton
College Park Elementary

With her friendly smile and willing spirit, Stacie Dayton has shown true dedication to College Park. She assists teachers and staff, volunteers in the clinic, and coordinates the volunteer program at College Park, all with a cheerful attitude.

Christine Jurczak
Cooke Elementary

With over three hundred hours logged this year, Mrs. Jurczak makes students her first priority. She reads weekly with students, manages the school store, and supports school events. Always going above and beyond, she's a true shining star at Cooke!

Kimberly Crawford
Corporate Landing Elementary

Characterized by a CLES teacher as "essential in the day-to-day operation of my classroom", this volunteer stands out! Others comment on her significance to the school and praise her as "an asset." Dependable, smiling, and outstanding--a real prize!

Elizabeth Lee
Corporate Landing Middle

With nearly 500 hours of volunteer service this year, this incredible volunteer is an inspiration at CLMS. Working with students with disabilities, students light up when she enters the room. Mrs. Lee epitomizes the qualities of an outstanding volunteer!

Evie Foster
Cox High

Although her own children have graduated, Mrs. Foster continues to volunteer endless hours, serving the track and cross-country teams. She offers expertise with data and helps with meets. With her assistance, track teams have made great strides at Cox!

Noreen Rodgers
Creeds Elementary

This exceptional volunteer demonstrates "amazing character and conscientiousness" in everything she does. She is "intuitive, makes connections, and finds deeper meaning in material or situations". Truly a shining example for all!

Lauren Bensink
Fairfield Elementary

This volunteer brings sunshine and fair skies to Fairfield! Her happy manner and encouraging demeanor attract volunteers to the school, and her attention to detail strengthens whatever she's involved in. Most of all, she loves Fairfield--and it shows!

Wayne Andrews
First Colonial High

This volunteer truly inspires by example. Working closely with school administration to set up a mentoring program for males at the school, he gives "the gift of true action to make lives better for children". Outstanding!

Jileen Cassell
Glenwood Elementary

Jileen Cassell "volunteers because she loves what she does." She makes a difference in students' lives and models respectful behavior for all. In the midst of all her volunteer activities, she takes time to listen to students with care and compassion!

Heather Malaby
Great Neck Middle

This dedicated volunteer gives 110% to everything she does. Her activities include beautification of school grounds, fundraising, coordinating calendars with other schools, and even re-writing PTA by-laws. Great job!

Lisa Grant
Green Run Elementary

When the Principal of Green Run sees this volunteer, he asks "What hat are you wearing today?" Described as being literally "everywhere" at the school, her joy in contributing to Green Run is genuine and effervescent. Outstanding!

Sharon Grozich
Green Run High

Always quick to respond to any need "with great enthusiasm", this volunteer is an avid supporter of GRHS. She serves the school in numerous ways, most notably in her support of the Green Run High School SCA. Her service to the school is outstanding!

Kathryn Jillard
Hermitage Elementary

Wherever Kathryn is needed is where she will be! These words summarize Hermitage's VOY perfectly. An invaluable resource to the staff, her dedication and willing spirit have made her a natural choice for this honor. Outstanding!

Margaret Horn
Holland Elementary

This grandmother and Certified Volunteer Coordinator is described as having a "Heart of Gold". Every day she can be found at the school--and this is her second round of volunteer service as a grandmother. She is a much loved member of the Holland family.

Elizabeth Taylor
Independence Middle

Elizabeth Tabor's strengths are many--but one of the most important is that she brings the business community, faculty, staff, parents and students together for amazing events --truly "a gift from the heart." She makes the IMS community shine!

Marcia Zele
Indian Lakes Elementary

This "inexhaustible volunteer" completes every task she undertakes with "accuracy and total focus." Willing to lend a hand wherever needed, she accomplishes her volunteer activities with a willing spirit and a smile on her face!

Caroline Rawls
John B. Dey Elementary

As a "superb ambassador" for John B. Dey, Mrs. Rawls shares her enthusiasm for volunteering with others through her various leadership roles. Whenever called upon to help or fill a need, she is there. The list of her contributions is endless!

Ingrid Marshall
Kellam High

This volunteer was "instrumental" in helping Kellam's Marching Knight Band become an award winning championship band. Her noteworthy efforts have extended beyond students to parents as well, helping to make sure that the program operated harmoniously!

Jackie Slater
Kemps Landing Magnet

Described as a "stellar example", she spends so much time at KLMS that she's often mistaken for an employee! The list of her tasks is endless--setting up science lab experiments, attending after-school activities, serving on committees--outstanding work!

Heidi Batten
Kempsville Elementary

For the past six years, Heidi Batten has given countless hours of cheerful service to Kempsville Elementary. From taking charge of the Good Citizen Awards to forming the School Beautification Committee, she is always a dedicated presence at Kempsville.

Nancy Watson
Kempsville High

Prompt, pleasant, and efficient describes this volunteer. Whether working with the Band Parents Association, in the Guidance Office, or in the Main Office, she is an excellent volunteer who serves not for recognition, but to make KHS a better place.

Cathy Salvato
Kempsville Middle

An "unselfish supporter" of multiple schools, this outstanding volunteer is a gem! Her commitment to education is evident to all, and at KMS they say "just ask Cathy and she'll do it!" She is an integral part of the KMS community--an exemplary volunteer!

Kathryn Callahan
Kempsville Meadows Elementary

This volunteer "exemplifies the positive difference volunteering makes" at Kempsville Meadows! She gives generously of her time and talents to support the educational program at Kempsville, and has served in multiple roles at the school. Great job!

Dianne Baxley
Kings Grant Elementary

Although her own children have moved on from Kings' Grant, Mrs. Baxley stayed on! She has been a continuous force at the school, working with teachers, making Dr. Seuss hats for students, and touching the lives of over 150 students each week!

Katy Walden
Kingston Elementary

Devoted! Tireless! Passionate! Loving! These are just some of the superlatives used to describe this "Super Volunteer" at Kingston. "Katy does not believe that the glass is half-full; she believes it is full!" This volunteer is much loved at Kingston.

Darlene Olbes
Landstown Elementary

As a pediatric nurse, her skills make a difference in the health of Landstown students. By participating in school health screenings, Mrs. Olbes helps make sure that students are healthy and ready to learn. She goes above and beyond for Landstown!

Debbie Aducci
Landstown High

Through faithful service to Landstown's Guidance Department, Mrs. Aducci has become a trusted and valued volunteer at the school. Whether bringing bagels to the office staff or bringing baked goods for teachers, she spreads happiness wherever she goes!

Jamie Reavis
Landstown Middle

As President of Landstown's PTA, her mark can be seen on many programs throughout the school. Not only does she coordinate events, she supports other members, staff--and always acts as an advocate for students.

Francie Hill
Larkspur Middle

This VOY's leadership and organization have reaped great benefits for Larkspur. On her days off, she serves the SAC office--helping out wherever needed. Her efforts to involve parents and families at the school have been greatly successful--awesome job!

Larry Oleszko
Linkhorn Park Elementary

What's a guy to do if he's married to the PTA President? Become the school's Volunteer of the Year! Larry Oleszko did just that! His outstanding contributions to the school include building a greenhouse for the school for all to enjoy. Outstanding!

Alice Teller
Luxford Elementary

As a dependable presence at Luxford, this volunteer does it all! With over 100 hours of volunteer service at Luxford this year, she can be counted upon to do whatever is needed. Great job!

Tammy McGinley
Lynnhaven Elementary

This Certified Volunteer Coordinator really makes a difference at Lynnhaven. In the words of one, "If she were to get paid for all her hard work, she would be rich. Instead, we are rich to have her." This volunteer is truly a treasure at Lynnhaven!

Carole Sharpe
Lynnhaven Middle

This busy volunteer has single-handedly published, edited, and orchestrated the distribution of Lynnhaven's quarterly newsletter. She has given her computer expertise to create a volunteer database, and done it all with professionalism and humor.

Cheryl Lyons
Malibu Elementary

Always the first to ask "what can I do?," Mrs. Lyons goes above and beyond for Malibu. From her first day there, she enthusiastically involved herself in every facet of the school and the volunteer program--even recruiting others to serve as volunteers!

Debbie Moreland
New Castle Elementary

This mother of six makes things happen at New Castle! From organizing the Santa Breakfast to coordinating the family sock hop--to chairing a school carnival that garnered four thousand dollars for the school--she is an outstanding volunteer!

Nicole Wilson
Newtown Road Elementary

This volunteer works tirelessly at Newtown, even though HER children are in middle school! She is Reflections Chair and VIE Chair, and she established the Wee Deliver Postal System, and the "Caught Being Good Coin System" that reinforces behavior--wow!

Kami Pritchard
North Landing Elementary

"It's for the kids! Those are words that can regularly be heard from Kami Pritchard. This committed volunteer was instrumental in designing and developing the Ram's Outdoor Campus, through grant funding and volunteer efforts. Great job!

Carolyn Hawxhurst
Ocean Lakes Elementary

This retired teacher is a regular in Mrs. Leahy's first grade classroom. Whether working with students on Accelerated Reader, helping them select books, or sending postcards to the class on her travels, Mrs. Huwxhurst is truly a member of the OLES family.

Kelly McMullen
Ocean Lakes High

This volunteer's bright smile, sunny disposition, and efficient manner make her a friend to students, faculty, and staff. Whether serving as a chaperone on a Sea Camp trip, on the OLHS board, or helping in the office, her contributions are outstanding!

Lisa Vesely
Old Donation Center

As a daily presence at ODC, Mrs. Vesely can be counted on in a multitude of ways. Serving as both Hospitality and Program Chair and coordinating the Fifth Grade Graduation Committee, she takes on many leadership roles at the school. "A shining example!"

Cammie Davidson
Parkway Elementary

A smiling face in the library media center, Mrs. Davidson helps out shelving books, doing checkouts, and helping students. She also worked with the PTA to organize the Book Fair, and helps in the computer lab. She is a "wonderful example!"

Jeanne Blair
Pembroke Elementary

This volunteer is the force behind the Mini-Mustang at Pembroke. This program allows students to check out books for siblings at home, and Mrs. Blair is in charge of it all. In the words of one individual, "I would love to have a million of Mrs. Blair"!

Betsy Russ
Pembroke Meadows Elementary

This delightful volunteer sets a good example with her winning ways! Her outstanding qualities are many, but a favorite among students and staff is that she's a GREAT cook, and generously shares her delicacies with others. A winning recipe for a VOY!

Cindy Taylor
Plaza Elementary

Ms. Taylor can be spotted serving hot dogs and pizza at dances, finding the perfect Santa's helper for Breakfast With Santa, or providing help to teachers--all while maintaining a full time job! She "exemplifies the vital role volunteers play in schools".

Terri Johnson
Plaza Middle

Plaza's theme for 2005-2006 is "Exceeding Expectations", which perfectly sums up the activities of their VOY. Her work on the newsletter has transformed it into one that families eagerly anticipate, facilitating communication between the Plaza community.

Kris Burger
Point O'View Elementary

This dynamic volunteer can be found at Point O'View every day doing a multitude of tasks--assisting with AR, laminating, helping teachers, and doing whatever is needed with a cheerful disposition and a positive attitude. Outstanding!

Barbara Sullivan
Princess Anne Elementary

Barbara Sullivan puts her heart and soul into volunteering at Princess Anne! This artistic member of the PAES community wore many hats, volunteering in art classes, chairing the Reflections Contest, and serving the school in many ways. "A true gem!"

Viola Clark
Princess Anne High

This former teacher and coach didn't go far from school upon retiring--she stayed there! Every Thursday, she spends the day in the school's office, helping out wherever needed. Never unwilling to lend a hand, she is a shining example of volunteerism.

Leann Dextradeur
Princess Anne Middle

As the vision and driving force behind the "What Princess Ann Means to Me" art project, this volunteer put her love for the school to work. Her efforts can be seen on the walls of Princess Anne Middle School, in the art showcases, and in the pride of Princess Anne students!

Whitney Biddle
Providence Elementary

With her friendly face and able attitude, no wonder this volunteer was chosen as Providence's VOY. According to those at Providence, she "is a perfect example of today's volunteer: a capable, quick thinking problem solver with enthusiasm for new ideas."

Darleen Wills
Red Mill Elementary

Garden tools in hand, Mrs. Wills tirelessly devotes herself (and her green thumb) to Red Mill's courtyard. Quietly getting the job done, teachers depend on her efficiency and reliability. This volunteer cultivates great things for Red Mill!

Arnida Allen
Rosemont Elementary

As an ever present force in Rosemont's Library, Ms. Allen makes things happen. Whether shelving books, helping students find age appropriate materials, organizing the book fair or serving on School Planning Council, she is always up to the challenge!

Nancy Dwyer
Rosemont Forest Elementary

Rosemont Forest's Volunteer of the Year makes beautiful music at the school! She helps with song sheets, puts together programs for plays and concerts, and helps with rehearsals. Her efforts help ensure that the program stays in tune every day!

Tammy Goterba
Salem Elementary

Described as a "jack of all trades", she happily takes on a variety of tasks, always with a smile. For over five years, her service to students, staff, and even classroom pets is without compare. "Smart, reliable and enthusiastic", she's extraordinary!

Charlene Cattoi
Salem High

This dependable volunteer spends so much time at Salem, she has been mistaken for staff! As chairperson for the Project Graduation Committee, she has gone above and beyond in organizing this event. She is "on top of everything!"

Sue Champlin
Salem Middle

This volunteer is known for stepping in to save the day! If a field trip needs a chaperone, she is there. If a newsletter needs to be distributed, she distributes. If the Book Fair needs a boost, she does the boosting. SMS can always count on her!

Nancy Defnet
Seatack Elementary

This "jewel to Seatack" is "loved by all, but most of all by the students who have come to know her." Faculty who work with her note that she is trustworthy, prompt, and "what every teacher dreams of for the help she gives to students".

Belinda Fondern
Shelton Park Elementary

Raising the bar is what this volunteer is all about! She sets an example for others through her work as room mom, PTA event coordinator, and trainer of other volunteers. Truly an asset to Shelton Park!

Tami Lake
Strawbridge Elementary

This self-appointed "Riso Queen" wears many hats, extending far outside the copy room. Involved with almost all aspects of the PTA, her "can do" attitude, creativity, and great ideas make her an indispensable part of the Strawbridge family.

Meghan Berberich
Tallwood Elementary

This "consummate volunteer" radiates concern and care for students, teachers and parents throughout Tallwood. Through her varied volunteer activities, she shows deep and abiding concern for young people, setting an outstanding example of volunteerism.

William Shanley
Tallwood High

Described as a true professional, this military man brings leadership and energy to his volunteerism. His tireless work in support of athletics and instruction, done with an impeccable work ethic, make him an outstanding role model for all to see.

James Jones
Technical and Career Education Center

Each week this year, Mr. Jones has given his time to students in the Tech Center welding class. As an aspiring educator himself, he brings positive energy to the students. At the end of each of his visits, students line up to shake his hand in thanks!

Julie Baker
Thalia Elementary

Thanks to this volunteer, Thalia Elementary is a more beautiful place to learn. Collaborating with community leaders and school partners, she tied her school beautification plan into education and learning, involving classes in the process--great job!

Amy Howard
Thoroughgood Elementary

Instrumental in both the Destination Imagination program and Geography Club at Thoroughgood, this volunteer makes things happen! With over four hundred volunteer hours this year alone, she puts Thoroughgood's volunteer program on the map!

Cheryl Colvin
Three Oaks Elementary

Starting a brand new PTA is a mighty task, but this volunteer was up to the challenge. Going above and beyond from the start, she helped plant the seeds for an outstanding first year at Three Oaks. As they say at Three Oaks, " We love our Mrs. Colvin!“

Lisa Campbell
Trantwood Elementary

This creative volunteer always steps up to the plate, whether the job is big or small. As chair of the Reflections Committee, organizer of art shows, and general volunteer extraordinaire, she is a true advocate for children and the arts.

Kathy Edwards
Virginia Beach Middle

This volunteer is described as "rock solid, a volunteer who exudes kindness, patience, respect, dependability and ethics". Never looking for accolades, she has served the school for years and is the epitome of an exceptional volunteer.

Bonnie Brown
Virginia Beach Central Academy

Ms. Brown's commitment to education is unwavering. She tirelessly gives of her time and effort in support of the school's goals and objectives. With her positive attitude and good work ethic, she is an example for others to follow.

Judy Davies
White Oaks Elementary

This volunteer is so important to White Oaks, she is considered to be "part of the team"! Generously giving of her time to coordinate the Accelerated Reader program and help in the library, no job is too big or too small for this devoted volunteer!

Elvia Celestine
Williams Elementary

A weekly presence in the Media Center, this volunteer also helps out in classrooms and devotes time to the Book Fair. Her respect for students is demonstrated daily, and she is an invaluable volunteer at Williams!

Stacey Guilfoy
Windsor Oaks Elementary

With a unique mixture of organizational and planning skills, creative talents, and interpersonal skills, this volunteer is a gift to Windsor Oaks. As a pivotal part of WOES's Listening Ears program with the SPCA, this volunteer makes a difference!

Leslie Martin
Windsor Woods Elementary

This caring and compassionate self-starter has made tremendous contributions to the Parents of Younger Siblings program at Windsor Woods. The program, which helps parents of young children with parenting issues, has thrived under her care. Great work!

Danetta Jankosky
Woodstock Elementary

As "head room mom" for the school, Mrs. Jankosky does it right--ensuring healthy snacks (in addition to treats) and activities that engage the mind and body (as well as being entertaining). This attention to detail is always given with love and a smile!




Volunteers of the Year

Last Modified on Wednesday, March 06, 2013