Special to McDonald County Press
Lambda Chi Chapter of ESA held a special meeting April 23 in the home of Shirley Alps of Pineville to bestow annual awards and install officers for the coming business year.
The theme chosen by incoming president Shirley Alps, "Over the Rainbow with ESA," was revealed to the chapter.
In her welcome to the group, outgoing president Judy Duncan recognized special guests at the gathering: state ESA officer Sandy Hosack and Dave Campbell, both of St Louis; and Mary Lee Littlefield, who gave a program on the changes she sees in education as she has ended her own public school teaching career and now works with Missouri State University to prepare future teachers.
Littlefield contrasted the programs of the past that are being replaced by new federal and state education programs and regulations. She emphasized the role technology plays not only in the lives of students, but also in the steps future teachers must make to teach in today's education world.
Another challenge faced by prospective teachers is the number and the cost of the qualifying tests they must take before becoming a certificated teacher.
At the conclusion of her remarks, Littlefield was surprised to be presented this year's D.I.A.N.N.A award from Lambda Chi Chapter. The D.I.A.N.N.A, Distinguished Academy of Noble Achievement, was given to Littlefield in recognition of her outstanding service to the community.
Littlefield gave 32 years of professional service to the McDonald County School District, rising from the role of classroom teacher to that of assistant superintendent of schools. She was instrumental in guiding the efforts of thousands of students and teachers.
Littlefield currently continues her service and interest in public education as a teacher educator for Missouri State University and as a member of the board of directors for the McDonald County Schools Foundation.
The officer installation ceremony was conducted by state officer Sandy Hosack. In keeping with the theme chosen by Shirley Alps, a candle which continuously morphed through the colors of the rainbow was presented to each officer as she accepted her office.
Officers for 2016 are president Shirley Alps; vice president Alice Snodgrass; treasurer Margie Edmonds; secretary Judy Rickett; parliamentarian Janice Pratt; and past president Judy Duncan.
Several chapter members were recognized for outstanding effort. Barbara Keaton received a first in the state for her series of educational programs this year. Pallas Athene awards were presented by Judy Rickett to members that achieved milestones in service through ESA activities. Jeanne Mitchell has risen to second degree and Shirley Alps and Barbara Keaton have earned the third degree award.
Faithful membership was also recognized. Barbara Keaton has been a member for 10 years, Alice Snodgrass for 15 years, Janice Pratt for 25 years, Debbie Alumbaugh for 30 years and Nancy Call, Margie Edmonds and Judy Rickett for 35 years.
Debbie Alumbaugh gave the closing invocation and the group adjourned to Haven 55 for dinner.
Community on 05/19/2016