Madison Names Teachers of the Year

Madison's five schools have announced their teachers of the year:

• Central Avenue School: Kathie Spelker, special education teacher
• Kings Road School: Roberta Stephens, speech therapist
• Torey J. Sabatini: Corinne Babich, in-class support teacher
• Madison Junior School: Paige Henry, language arts teacher
• Madison High School: Rachel Bonnema, technology and media teacher

The educators were honored at the June 11 Board of Education meeting. Here is some of what administrators said about the recipients:

Spelker is always open to new ideas and, when she recognized students needed extra tutoring, she recruited high school student volunteers to start an after-school program.

Students adore Stephens, who gives clear and concise instructions for parents and works collaboratively with staff.

Babich, whose home was wiped out by Superstorm Sandy, is firm, kind, fun, serious and caring, and a light for Torey J.

Henry, a dedicated teacher whose classes are challenging and enriching, planned a trip to Drew University to hear Holocaust survivors and has had seven grant application accepted by the Madison Education Foundation.

Bonnema follows exceptional teaching practices, is selfless with her time and serves as a role model for students and faculty.