Susanne Bonhote, an Achieve academic support teacher at McKinley School in Westfield, has been selected by the New Jersey Department of Education as a “2016 Exemplary Elementary Educator.” The certificate of recognition bestowed on Mrs. Bonhote and signed by Acting Commissioner Kimberly Harrington states that it “honors the contributions of being an outstanding educator in a New Jersey public school.”
In the nomination submitted by McKinley School, the 25-year veteran in the Westfield Public Schools was described as having a tireless work ethic, a positive and contagious attitude, exhibiting a collaborative team member approach combined with best teaching techniques.
On November 9, at a school-wide assembly, Principal Marc Biunno surprised Mrs. Bonhote with the announcement and presented her with the certificate from the Department of Education. The accompanying letter from the NJDOE explains that Mrs. Bonhote was selected after a rigorous selection process. It goes on to say that the “goal of the program is to identify educators who are valued by their school and community and have exhibited strong knowledge and skills, an inspiring presence, and a clear vision for quality teaching and learning.”
Following the presentation of the certificate, the entire student body sang with gusto “I Can,” a song of inspiration adopted by the school. “No matter what my challenges are, I want to do my best because of you,” Mrs. Bonhote told the students. “We are fortunate to have each other. Thank you, I am very honored.”
Mrs. Bonhote also was the 2016 Westfield Rotary’s Philhower Award winner for excellence in teaching at the elementary level. “We are fortunate to have skilled and dedicated teachers in our district,” stated Superintendent of Schools, Margaret Dolan. “To Mrs. Bonhote and McKinley School: Congratulations on such outstanding recognitions.”
(above) During a school wide assembly at McKinley School in Westfield, Principal Marc Biunno presented a certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education, naming Susanne Bonhote a 2016 Exemplary Elementary Educator.
