Past Recipients of the Extra Mile Award
Greg Ballog (2008)
A biology teacher at South Whidbey High School, Greg was nominated by a student who said, "..we have maintained a close student-teacher unlike any other I've ever had. His phenomenal teaching techniques, clever anecdotes and dedication to students exceed all others I've ever encountered...As I leave high school and move on to college, I can only hope to encounter teachers as motivated, talented and dedicated as Mr. Ballogg." (Mr. Ballog also received this award in 2005.)
Erik Jokinen (2007)
The award was presented to Erik Jokinen, Physical Education and Health Teacher at Langley Middle School.His award presentation remarks read: "Erik has committed himself personally and professionally to helping our students become healthier and more physically fit. He works on a district committee to improve all aspects of student health, and dedicates his lunch time to organizing intramurals. He inspires staff and students to develop healthy habits and a life-long desire for fitness.”
Diane Moondancer (2006)
The 2006 Extra Mile Award was presented to Dianne Moondancer, English and psychology teacher and Director of the Bayview School, who also had numerous nominations for the award.
Greg Ballog (2005)
(photo not available.)
Rich Conover (2004)
Rich Conover, visual arts teacher at South Whidbey High School, was the 2004 winner of the South Whidbey Schools Foundation's Extra Mile Award winner. Rich, in his 27th year as a public educator, is estimated to have taught more than 2500 students. He has maintained an intensive, hands-on art program which he built from the ground up, and which is rivaled only at college and professional levels.
Kathy Callahan (2003)
Amidst the cheers of South Whidbey Intermediate School students at their year-end awards assembly, teacher Kathy Callahan was announced as the winner of the 2003 Extra Mile Award by South Whidbey Schools Foundation President Dave Haworth.
2009/2010 Recipient of the
Extra Mile Award
Jennifer Gandarias
Gandarias is well loved by students, staff, and parents who appreciate her outstanding outreach to parents so that all students are achieving to the best of their abilities.
She is also recognized for her generosity in assisting other staff with integrating technology into their teaching and learning.
Staff nominations include comments that Gandarias has more energy than any five people put together. She is passionate about technology and spends countless hours incorporating it into her lessons, teaching other staff, and attending workshops, at her own expense.
Additionally, she pairs with Mary Ridley to run an after school garden club. Gandarias cares about each student and adapts her lessons to reach each child….She is an all around outstanding teacher.
The Extra Mile Award was originally funded by an anonymous donation and issustained by donations to the Foundation.
A $500 cash gift accompanies the award.