'Celebrate Teacher' at Primrose Hill

Today is National Teacher Day, and at least one Barrington teacher will be given recognition for making a real difference in the lives of her pupils. 

Cheryl August, who has been teaching second-graders at Primrose Hill School for the past 16 years, will be recognized for making a difference in a “Celebrate Teachers” contest sponsored by the Providence Place mall.

Barrington Superintendent Michael Messore mentioned the recognition at last week’s School Committee meeting. August was nominated by Mary Kay Talbot, a parent volunteer and mother whose children have had her as a teacher.

August described her recognition “as really sweet” because parents and former students and supporters voted for her in the mall competition either by email or on the mall Facebook page. But it has been a bit awkward at the same time, she said.

“I’m not used to this type of recognition,” she said. 

August said she certainly appreciates her first-place prize: a $500 gift card to the mall.

August has been teaching in Barrington since 1988. She taught first grade at Nayatt School before moving to Primrose Hill 16 years ago.

Here is the nomination entry:

Mrs. August is an experienced teaching professional who greets each day with enthusiasm. 

As a parent volunteer, I can attest to the fact that she’s kind, cheerful and challenges each student to reach their potential, regardless of their ability.  She gives 100 percent to her students and inspires them to give 100 percent effort.  Gifted children are challenged alongside their developmentally challenged peers.  How she keeps each child motivated and happy is a rare talent. 

Watching Mrs. August in the classroom is like watching a conductor.  In her world, each child in her integrated classroom is a valuable, contributing member and she’s the conductor who makes the cacophony of these boisterous second graders into brilliant music.  Because of the way that she encourages each child to find value in (and to respect) their peers, I have seen children in her integrated classroom flourish and develop lifelong friendships. 

Mrs. August is a teacher who is 100 percent present to her students. She ignites the joy of learning in her classroom and inspires her students.  As a result, her gift is not only given to her students, but also to their families. My children have had her as a teacher for three years (combined) and it has (and continues to be) a wonderful time in their learning adventure. They love going to school with Mrs. August as their teacher.

Mrs. August deserves this award because she challenges each child to be their best, to discover joy in learning and to appreciate their classmates.  Isn’t that by very definition the meaning of a great teacher?