Photo by: Courtney Sanguinetti
She welcomes her students by signing “good morning” in American Sign Language (ASL) as well with a warm smile. The bell rings and class begins. Shortly after, there is a calm knock on the door. ASL teacher Amy Tomspon opens it, and to her surprise, multiple staff members are waiting to be welcomed in.
Amy Tompson was named Region Seven Teacher of the Year on August 3 nominated by the faculty and staff for her building an outstanding ASL program. She was awarded $1,250 along with a teacher of the year plaque.
Photo By: Liv Simmons
“We get together with administrators and staff in the building and nominate other individuals for different teacher awards, take some of those names, look through and see which one would be a best fit for each different nomination, '' Principal Jeremy Chilek said. “In Mrs.Thompson’s case, [it’s] her story and ability to start this program that we haven’t had for the last few years, sign language.”
Thompson started as a fourth grade English teacher. Through the years she has taught grades ranging from preschool up to college, and last year she started an ASL program to promote deaf awareness and culture.
Photo By: Andrew Velarde
“My inspiration for teaching was my own children,” Thompson said. “Getting to watch them grow up. I began homeschooling them, and the love of teaching grew from there.”
Thompson got awarded at the district level where she was competing against the teachers from grade seven to grade 12. Then she advanced to the region level where she answered questions, got interviewed by a regional level committee, and did extra paperwork.
Photo By: Liv Simmons
“I loved how energetic she was and always worked one on one with a student if they were falling behind or needed extra help,” junior Gabby Johnson said. “Also with most lessons she would have a game or fun activity to really help you remember what she taught.”
ASL was crowded with entry requests to the point that many people could not get into her class. Thompson’s class, despite being a one year old, is one of the most popular classes and holds the top standard on what a class should be.
Photo By: Andrew Velarde
“Mrs. Thompson’s class was my favorite part of the day.” junior Gracie Fox said. “She always made sure to have something fun planned while also making sure we are learning. I loved how involved she was with each individual student and making sure to have a bond with each and every one.”
Photo By: Andrew Velarde