Past Recipients of the Extra Mile Award
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.We are so lucky to have him.”
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. Assisted by fellow Board members Jill Engstrom and Barb Bennett, Haworth announced that in addition to a recognition plaque to be placed in the SWIS Community Room, Callahan receives a $500 cash award.
Callahan, speaking through tears, again put students first by asking for recommendations of how to spend the award money for their school.
2008 Recipient of the
Extra Mile Award
Greg Ballog
The Extra Mile Award, based on nominations by the entire faculty of the South Whidbey School District, acknowledges and honors teachers who have gone the furthest in the service of the South Whidbey education community.
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
The Extra Mile Award was originally funded by an anonymous donation and is sustained by donations to the Foundation. A $500 cash gift accompanies the award.