Meet our 2011 Volunteers of the Year
Adult Learning Center - Hebert Anderson
This outstanding volunteer, who has tutored students in English for Speakers of Other Languages classes for the past thirteen years, is committed to improving the language and lives of the students. His respect and appreciation of other cultures, and his love for his own American heritage, is infectious.
Advanced Technology Center - Harrell Peterson
Mr. Peterson has a sincere and passionate interest in helping all students to meet with success. Teaching students financial strategies using a game called "Cashflow," students are always excited to see him and learn more. Not only does he consistently volunteer his time and resources to Marketing Management students, but he has also offered them employment opportunities.
Alanton Elementary School - Brigette Clifford
This energetic mother of four devotes over twenty hours each week to the school. Her assistance with the Family/Student Directory, Operation Smile and the mentorship program makes her a true gem.
Arrowhead Elementary School - Mindy Neiman
Currently Vice-President of the PTA, Mindy works hard on fundraising activities and coordinating programs for the students. She provides weekly assistance to teachers and her leadership role in PTA sponsored events this year has created a contagious enthusiasm throughout the school.
Bayside High School - Kyle Stein
This volunteer extraordinaire has made countless contributions to the athletic program throughout the years. Instrumental in ensuring that the football and basketball seasons are action-packed, memory-making opportunities for athletes and fans alike, he has left a lasting impression that has endeared him to all Marlins.
Bayside Elementary School - Regina Davis
Mrs. Davis models a warm, diligent, and determined "you can do anything you put your mind to" attitude for students and adults. Recognized as an amazing room parent, Fall Festival organizer, and classroom volunteer and chaperone, this outstanding volunteer's positive, caring energy has a wonderful effect on all who know her.
Bayside Middle School - Daryl Christian
Assisting as a basketball coach and student mentor, Mr. Christian is a positive role model for Raider Nation students. While motivating students to be the best that they can be by example, he has encouraged them to overcome obstacles that they may encounter in life.
Bayside Tri-Campus - Kimeka Robinson
Along with being a full-time student pursuing a degree in education, a military wife, and mother of five children, Mrs. Robinson still finds time two days each week to volunteer at the school. Assisting with the book fair, science fair, class field trips, and in the library, she is making a positive difference in the lives of all students and staff.
Birdneck Elementary School - Patti Bailey
Contributing over 300 hours to date, this amazing volunteer tirelessly works with the school's Special Education population. The personal attention she shows students is evident in their academic and emotional growth.
Brandon Middle School - Michele Bullard
Presently serving on the school's PTA Executive Board, Ms. Bullard is the "go to" person when it comes to events. Her bright and smiling presence makes a positive difference as she supports concessions, dances, and the school store. She is truly a treasured resource at the school.
Brookwood Elementary School - Karen Jacobs
A member of the PTA board, the School Planning Council, and Fundraising Chairperson, Ms. Jacobs volunteers at every school function. She has been instrumental in recruiting school volunteers to ensure that students are provided with memorable, quality experiences.
Centerville Elementary School - Heather Cavanaugh
From running classroom parties and setting up the Kindergarten Parent Breakfast, to organizing a school magic show or helping with a school dance, Ms. Cavanaugh is truly making a difference to benefit students, parents, and teachers tremendously at the school.
Christopher Farms Elementary School - Wendy McGinn
The positive impact on the school that Ms. McGinn has made is far reaching and immeasurable. She has increased the number and quality of educational programs that support students through assemblies and in classrooms. By designing and maintaining a website and creating an email database, she has significantly improved communication with families and staff as well.
College Park Elementary School - Trabelus Whitfield
Extending himself above and beyond the call of duty, Officer Whitfield's mere presence motivates students to achieve. Reading to them using "special voices with great intonation and a marvelous sense of humor," providing pep talks of encouragement, mentoring fifth grade students, or educating students and parents about gang and violence prevention and bullying, this remarkable volunteer is a well-respected role model and favorite at the school.
Cooke Elementary School - Harry Smithson
This musically talented grandfather of three has been assisting Cooke with fundraising ventures, supporting book fairs, and helping at math carnivals since his own son attended the school many years ago. His smile and great sense of humor make working with him a true pleasure.
Corporate Landing Middle School - Sharon Costner
Contributing countless volunteer hours over the past three years, Mrs. Costner has given teachers the precious gift of time, an extremely valuable resource. She also generously donates supplies to teachers and needy students. CLMS is truly grateful for such a dependable volunteer in action.
Corporate Landing Elementary School - Cassandra Bauman
Creating musical productions to enhance learning at Corporate Landing Elementary School is certainly a forte of Ms. Bauman's. Her school shares that this truly admirable volunteer has a knack for tapping into the creative side of students.
Cox High School - Heather Malaby
PTA President, Heather Malaby, not only assists with concessions at football games as a member of the Booster Club, she also helps out in the Guidance Department, works with the swim team, and assists with the All-Night Graduation Celebration. She is also editor of the school's newsletter and has been invaluable in promoting the success of young people throughout the school.
Creeds Elementary School - Lynn Dove
This PTA Vice-President has incredible participation and demonstrates initiative in all events at the school. The Fall Festival, Santa's Breakfast, Bingo Night, and the Red Cross Blood Drive were hugely successful thanks to all of Ms. Dove’s hard work. Her high standards set a shining example for all to follow.
Fairfield Elementary School - Vicki Miller
Mrs. Miller is an exemplary volunteer. Serving as the school's Volunteer in Education Coordinator, she completely revamped the volunteer program that affords more opportunities for volunteers to participate at school and from home. She has gone the extra mile to get to know each volunteer personally, helping to create a very welcoming school environment.
First Colonial High School - Jennifer Nopper
Serving in a leadership role on the Scholarship Committee, Prom Committee, Gradfest Committee and assisting with the Mr. FC Pageant keeps this consummate volunteer very busy, considering she is doing all of this while holding a full-time teaching position at the school and serving as Chair of the Marketing Department. Ms. Nopper's energy and enthusiasm makes her a true advocate for students.
Glenwood Elementary School - Donna Greenside
This dedicated volunteer not only has duties serving on the PTA Board and as the school's VIE Coordinator, but she is also a classroom volunteer, library assistant, and helps with weekly Mad Science activities. Her continuous support is positively influencing the lives of many.
Great Neck Middle School - Cathy McDermott
Volunteering at least 20 hours per week, Ms. McDermott's tireless support of concessions and testing in the school makes her an invaluable asset to faculty and students.
Green Run Elementary School - Richelle Harrison
Ms. Harrison plays a key role in school events and goes above and beyond to ensure their success. As an employee at the school as well as serving as PTA President, she is the positive light that ensures that every activity will come off without a hitch.
Green Run High School - Gwen Haver
Ms. Haver has made a significant contribution to the NJROTC program where she serves as president of the parent's club. Her positive attitude and sheer desire to make Green Run a better place make her a true asset to the success of the programs within the school.
Hermitage Elementary School - Lucie Brown
Ms. Brown is a creative thinker, open to new ideas and is a role model for others because of her enthusiastic and dedicated demeanor. Chair of the Fall Festival Committee, classroom volunteer, and her efforts to make sure parents stay informed through the school's monthly "Grand Slam News," this outstanding volunteer is making a significant impact in promoting teamwork and unity at Hermitage.
Holland Elementary School - Barbara Rogers
Not only is Ms. Rogers a full-time student, but she is an extremely dedicated and inspiring volunteer coordinator who does a wonderful job to make parents feel welcome and appreciated.
Independence Middle School - Martha Jenkins
This outstanding volunteer "certainly puts children first and it's an honor to have her as a member of the Eagle family," according to Principal Cheryl Woodhouse. Ms. Jenkins volunteers each week in the school’s library, assists the band director as a booster club parent, and helps staff, demonstrating the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community.
Indian Lakes Elementary School - Candy Ackwith
Volunteering for the past six years at the school, the tremendous efforts Ms. Ackwith demonstrates do not go unnoticed. Not only does she spend time at the school, but she also brings work home with her to ensure that teachers receive the assistance they need.
John B. Dey Elementary School - Sheila Gunter
Holding three PTA Board positions and also heading two popular programs she initiated at the school: a Spanish After-School Enrichment program and the Fifth Grade Beach Bash, certainly sets the standard for volunteerism through the PTA. Ms. Gunter motivates others by her example of service and dedication.
Kellam High School - Heather Forbes
Ms. Forbes is making a positive difference at Kellam High School. She works with the drama department to chaperone productions in and out of town, builds sets, makes costumes and find props.
Kemps Landing Magnet - Ping Camano
Ms. Camano has helped to heighten awareness concerning disabilities at the school. In fact, she nominated and secured the National PTA Advocacy Award for KLMS and her efforts are on-going and consistent.
Kempsville High School - Elizabeth Butler
The Chiefs know they can always count on Ms. Butler to keep the students' and school’s well-being at heart as she devotes nearly 20 hours each week volunteering at the school. Her dedication of time and commitment to a memorable and safe graduation celebration makes for the "perfect send off" and lets all the seniors know KHS is proud of their accomplishments.
Kempsville Middle School - Kelly Dillon
Volunteering at the school for years as her four boys have gone through, this "behind the scenes gal" puts a smile on everyone's face! As Hospitality and Lounge Committee Chair, she is responsible for hosting faculty appreciation luncheons and individual teacher recognition days.
Kempsville Elementary School - Kelly Bondurant
This amazing volunteer is a nine year veteran at the school. Ms.Bondurant serves on the committee for the school's outdoor learning center and is an actively involved parent. Her dedicated assistance as a tutor is certainly impacting student success.
Kempsville Meadows Elementary School - James Day
Mr.Day has taken the lead for facilitating parent engagement at the school. He is a member of the school's planning council and has taken the lead as coordinator of the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program. He has also participated in the "Boys 2 Men" enrichment program at the school, helping to teach young men important leadership skills as well as develop their self-esteem.
King's Grant Elementary School - Beth Lutz
Serving as PTA Vice-President and chair of several committees, everyone looks forward to working with Ms. Lutz because of her positive, can-do attitude. Her warm personality welcomes new families and volunteers and she readily offers assistance to ensure smooth transitions and successful outcomes for all.
Kingston Elementary School - Nancy Hansson
Kingston doesn't know what they would have done without Ms. Hansson’s assistance over the past eleven years. From being the Room Parent Coordinator to Chesapeake Bay Initiative Co-Chair, to developing the "Cougar Clippings" newsletter to highlight the sustainability efforts at the school, to…Ms. Hansson does it all. In fact, she participates in so many activities, they’re too numerous to list.
Landstown Elementary School - Helen Bensley
Although Helen is retired and has no family members attending the school, she works a full-time schedule at LES, often dedicating over twenty hours each week. She enthusiastically and patiently guides students in the computer lab, volunteers to assist teachers, and helps with all school events. She is amazing!
Landstown High School - Debbie Aducci
Ms. Aducci can be found everywhere at the school. Whether volunteering to assist the PTSA, working on the All Night Grad Fest, helping with the Swim and Golf Teams, or serving on the school's planning council and Guidance Advisory Council, her valuable work and dedication never go unrecognized.
Landstown Middle School - Joshua Parker
An integral part of the success of the football team, this assistant coach for the past 2 years, has truly shared his knowledge and expertise while developing a very positive relationship with each of the players. Mr. Parker is an admirable role model and highly respected.
Larkspur Middle School - Helene Harris
From involving school partners to working with the student activities program selling dance tickets, Ms. Harris does it all! She has a remarkable giving spirit.
Linkhorn Park Elementary School - Sheila Horne
This outstanding volunteer's elaborate celebration parties to reward winning classes for Box Tops are infamous. Ms. Horne is also a weekly classroom volunteer, room mom, a participant in the Reading Partners Program and an art room helper.
Luxford Elementary School - Mable Hawkins
Ms. Hawkins's positive, cheerful attitude resonates in the hallways at the school. Grandmother of three and often called "Grandma" by all who know her, she monitors cafeteria behavior and volunteers in classrooms at least three days each week.
Lynnhaven Elementary School - Cheryl Monroe
An outstanding Volunteer in Education Coordinator, Mrs. Monroe demonstrates the ultimate in professionalism as she strives for excellence for all students at Lynnhaven. Not only does she assist in the office and help teachers and parents in every way possible, but she has been instrumental in encouraging volunteers to participate in the Golden Circle Program this year and four members have already received recognition.
Lynnhaven Middle School - Lisa von Schlichting
Mother of three, this creative master gardener and dedicated Volunteer of the Year has increased the beauty and "green" of the school grounds. Her participation, intensive labor, and inexhaustible enthusiasm for developing the Outdoor Classroom with the Rain Garden has fostered scientific learning for every student at Lynnhaven. Her legacy will live on for future Bluefish to enjoy and emulate.
Malibu Elementary School - Jennifer Hahn
Serving as the school's VIE Coordinator, Ms. Hahn has helped to facilitate the Fall Festival, Santa Breakfast, the PTA Teacher Luncheon as well as assist at this year’s Health Night. She pays attention to every detail and makes all events successful.
New Castle Elementary School - Laurie Wallgren
This is Ms. Wallgren's first year to volunteer at New Castle, but she can be seen throughout the school five days each week. All students enjoy her kind, warm interaction with them and want to read with her as she assists with the "Read to Me" program each Friday. Her exceptional way she supports teachers and the library staff has made her an invaluable asset at the school.
North Landing Elementary School - Diane Levine
An active member of the school's PTA and SCA, this exemplary volunteer has been a huge support system for teachers as well as students. She contributes a lot of time in the classroom and has made a positive impact encouraging students to listen, cooperate, and stay on task.
Ocean Lakes Elementary School - Melissa Herbert
Showing great enthusiasm for all she undertakes, Ms. Herbert exudes inspirational warmth to all who know her. She is exceptionally conscientious and reliable in all events and activities that she supports at the school.
Ocean Lakes High School - Diane Gillespie
Outstanding volunteer and one of the most dedicated Dolphins at Ocean Lakes, Diane has served in virtually every capacity on the PTSA Executive Board and has supported the Marching Band, the Magnet Student Association, the SCA, the Parental Involvement Committee and other programs of all kinds. She is greatly admired for her efforts to positively promote the school.
Old Donation Center - Russ Torrisi
This volunteer has provided invaluable service over the past 5 years at ODC. He can be seen early in the morning and late into the evening helping with the Running Club, Silent Auction, School Clubs, and has been a great leader for the Fall Festival and Winter Wonderland Committees.
Parkway Elementary School - SheVonne Rodgers
Ms. Rodgers's exceptional leadership skills are able to encourage parents to participate in most activities at the school. She is always willing to lend a hand and is a true asset as she organizes many events at the school from the beginning to their successful end.
Pembroke Elementary School - Marilyn Mitchell
Ms. Mitchell has been a delightful find for the school, according to Principal Linda Hayes. She created a volunteer database as the school's VIE Coordinator and is willing to support every event in any way possible.
Pembroke Meadows Elementary School - Joanne Hall
Going above and beyond in all that she does, Ms. Hall has genuinely made a positive impact on the entire school community. This year, she served as chair of the Fall Carnival and Santa's Breakfast and thanks to her exceptional communication and leadership skills, accolades were endless and profits were plentiful.
Plaza Middle School - Rita Beckman
This standing volunteer has had three children and four grandchildren educated in Virginia Beach Schools. She has a glowing presence serving in the library as a volunteer and her commitment to the school is unsurpassed and has continued even though her grandchild has matriculated into high school.
Point O'View Elementary School - Marion Friedman
Mrs. Friedman provides extra assistance with reading and math skills as well as gives students positive praises and nurturing. She has volunteered in the kindergarten classrooms for the past two years. As a retired teacher, her expertise has been invaluable for students and teachers.
Princess Anne Elementary School - Janine Sarach
This amazing PTA Treasurer and Chairperson for the Founder's Day Dinner and Auction helped raise over $10,000 for Scholarships for graduating seniors this year. Ms. Sarach has uploads, edits and publishes each student’s artwork throughout the school to create digital portfolios that will grow with them throughout the years. She is truly an outstanding Volunteer of the Year.
Princess Anne High School - Carol Moore
Donating her time and talent as the swim team mom and an active member of the band parents' booster club has directly impacted the school’s highly successful programs. Mrs. Moore’s countless hours of selfless dedication makes her a role model for all Cavaliers.
Princess Anne Middle School - Mary Jeanne Sheehy
PTA Vice-President and coordinator of programs, Mrs. Sheehy has organized and run pizza days for students on early dismissal days to protect instructional time while simultaneously raising over $3,000. Because of her efforts, PAMS has been able to reach instructional goals and character-building initiatives.
Providence Elementary School - Darcy Schrecengost
Providing office assistance, helping with the Bucket Team, Family Fitness Night, and an Afterschool Running Club are only a few of the many undertakings by this exemplary volunteer. Ms. Schrecengost's "we can" attitude has been contagious throughout the school.
Red Mill Elementary School - Penny Brooks
Ms. Brooks dedicates over twenty hours each week to volunteer in all aspects of the school. Serving on the PTA Board, she is a key player in running programs and is constantly jumping in to assist where needed. Her fresh approach when working with volunteers or serving on any committee makes her a remarkable resource.
Renaissance Academy - Pastor Deshawn Tatem
Committed to mentoring students twice each week on music production, graphic design, and piano instruction, Pastor Tatem is making a profound contribution to instilling responsibility and integrity in students. Through his efforts, families and students are realizing that wonderful caring people in the community are dedicated to helping them through difficult periods in their lives as well as inspiring them to reach their goals.
Rosemont Elementary School - Althea Allen
Increasing parent-school involvement as the VIE Coordinator, assisting teachers in classrooms, and helping to run the school book fair to enhance student literacy, makes Ms. Allen an amazing volunteer at Rosemont. She sets a wonderful example for students with her many volunteer efforts.
Rosemont Forest Elementary School - Kira Cubin
Running two businesses from home and having three children has not diminished her dependability and eagerness to support any PTA endeavor for this outstanding volunteer. Kudos to this PTA Executive Board member, VIE Coordinator, and classroom assistant whose number one goal is to enrich the lives of students through valuable learning experiences.
Salem Middle School - Kimberly Crawford
Ms. Crawford spends several hours each week assisting teachers, helping out at the book fair, monitoring testing and basically volunteering any place she is needed.. Her "can do" attitude and endless energy benefit everyone at the school.
Salem High School - Corrine Dillon
Ms. Dillon certainly lives by the adage that parents engaged in their children's education have students that perform at a higher level. She consistently demonstrates a nurturing and caring attitude toward all students while serving as the Chairperson for Project Graduation, active Parent Booster Club member, and District Reflections Chair.
Salem Elementary School - Wilma Almendro
This volunteer of the Year is "quite a lady!" according to Principal Janet Zitt. "Ms. Wilma" devotes much of her free time to improving the lives of teachers and students at Salem Elementary as she works behind the scenes to ensure that students have opportunities for exciting lessons and programs. Her love and enthusiasm for the school has earned her the undying respect and adoration of fellow volunteers and faculty.
Seatack Elementary School - Diane Payne
An outstanding volunteer, Ms. Payne, has provided excellent individual and small group remediation and enrichment in kindergarten classes over the past 5 years. Her devotion to ensuring that every child in her care finds success is recognized and appreciated by all.
Shelton Park Elementary School - Tanya Teague
Dedicating an average of 15 hours each week to the school, students flock to Ms. Teague like she is a close friend and her strong relationships with the entire staff is commendable.
Strawbridge Elementary School - Juan Guillen
The school considers, Mr. Guillen one of their most valued "family" members. "A fixture at the school" so much so that it is assumed that he is a full-time employee, Juan is willing to do anything asked of him.
Tallwood Elementary School - Sandra Rugenski
A model volunteer, Ms. Rugenski radiates care and concern for all students, teachers, and parents. She is often found working one on one with students needing a little extra assistance or in small group tutoring sessions helping children to do their very best.
Tallwood High School - Cindy Starnes
Ms. Starnes can be counted on to complete many tasks at the school, but Thursdays and Fridays are cookie baking days to help fund the upcoming All-Night Grad Party. She is truly a great volunteer!
Technical and Career Education Center - Hannah Riggs
A full-time student herself, Ms. Riggs still finds time in her busy schedule to dedicate service to the dental assisting program this year. Thanks to her assistance, students were able to gain more hands-on experiences in numerous areas.
Thalia Elementary School - Tina Santee
Ms. Santee, a parent new to the school this year, serves as PTA Vice President, helps with the Relay for Life Team efforts and was instrumental in implementing the Eagle Family Circle Program. This marvelous volunteer has certainly become an essential member of the Eagle family and a wonderful addition to Thalia!
Thoroughgood Elementary School - Karen Joynt
When Thoroughgood looks for the "go-to" person when events need to be organized and volunteers are needed, they think of this year's Volunteer of the Year, Karen Joynt. Devoting twenty hours each week to the school welcoming and mentoring parent volunteers and helping to provide after school enrichment programs, she is an invaluable member of the school community.
Three Oaks Elementary School - Nancy Hewlett
This mother of three and grandmother of two can be found working patiently and compassionately with students in classrooms throughout the school. Ms. Hewlett touches the lives of many students and staff members as only a nurturing grandmother could. She consistently demonstrates that she is genuinely interested in every student.
Trantwood Elementary School - Stacie Perros
An enthusiastic and positive leader at Trantwood, Ms. Perros serves as PTA Treasurer and chairperson for the Snowflake Breakfast and the Cultural Arts and Family Night Dinner. This extraordinary lady is an exceptional volunteer whose efforts benefit the entire school.
Virginia Beach Middle School - Anne Clifford
Virginia Beach Middle School is very proud to recognize PTA President, Anne Clifford. PTA President and chairperson of numerous committees at the school, Ms. Clifford has worked diligently to acquire corporate sponsors and generous donations to support many instructional programs for students. She is one of those extraordinary people who always gives 110% is all that she does.
White Oaks Elementary School - Crystal Tauler
Stupendous volunteer Crystal Tauler is the PTA Treasurer at White Oaks Elementary. She works diligently to publish and distribute parent flyers, coordinate fundraisers, and serve on event committees. Ms. Tauler has an infectious positive personality that has benefitted the school greatly.
Windsor Oaks Elementary School - Amanda Murray
Working directly with kindergarten students to provide remediation and enrichment activities for the past four years, Ms. Murray is truly going the extra mile for students. Her gentle manner and kind regard for others makes her a wonderful asset to the school.
Windsor Woods Elementary School - Nancy Randall
An extremely committed volunteer, Ms. Randall can be found assisting in the library three days a week. She is the "dream volunteer and we are wild about her," teachers at the school share.
Woodstock Elementary School - Rebecca Brooks
Woodstock Elementary is also crazy about their Volunteer of the Year, Rebecca Brooks! She assists the clerical staff, works with teachers in classrooms, and also leads a Destination Imagination Team and works with the school's Green Team. She is the epitome of an outstanding volunteer.
Office of Community Relations - Robert Hall
Congratulations and thank you to Mr. Hall for his continued service to students and staff in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. He has dedicated 19 years on a monthly basis visiting Bayside Elementary School to present the Bulldog Attendance Award, one he created to encourage improved student attendance at the school. Mr. Hall currently serves on the district's Disciplinary Hearing Committee and is a past School Board Member.