DCSS Exemplary English Learner and ESOL Teacher Named
Posted on 04/25/2022
Each year, ESOL students and teachers are nominated for the Exemplary English Learner Award and the Exemplary ESOL Educator Award.These nominations are reviewed by a committee composed of Central Office personnel.
The ESOL Program of the Douglas County School System is proud to congratulate 12th grader Temitope Adeyemo as the 2021-2022 Exemplary English Learner and Mrs. Shelia Clackum, ESOL teacher at Arbor Station Elementary School, as the 2021-2022 Exemplary ESOL Educator.
Temitope was nominated by the Douglas County High School ESOL teacher Mrs. Maria Moses. DCHS Principal Kenja Parks states, “Temitope is a shining example of how coming to the United States with limited English language proficiency can become the impetus that propels someone to achieve success. She has gone from taking ESOL classes to flourishing in Advanced Placement courses in Spanish, Microeconomics and U.S. History. She has maintained a grade point average of 4.0 while participating in several clubs and organizations.”
Temitope has also begun to take an active role in the community as shown by her volunteer work at community events.
Mrs. Shelia Clackum has been in education for twenty-three years including the past ten years as an ESOL teacher. Dr. Emily Felton, Principal at Arbor Station, says, “Mrs. Clackum is the perfect candidate for receiving an Exemplary ESOL Teacher award. She has made a difference in the lives of all of the many students she has had in her classroom. Any child lucky enough to have her as a teacher is not only guaranteed to receive the best education possible, but also has an advocate for life.”
Mrs. Clackum makes the difference by jumping into action to make sure the students have the necessary materials to help close any academic gaps. She provides morning tutoring, prepares individual take-home materials to practice specific skills, and tries to ensure there is someone at home who can help each student.
When observing Mrs. Clackum with her students, one can see the trust, love, and mutual respect they share. She has very high standards and she will do whatever is necessary to make sure they are well prepared and confident to continue moving forward in their education.
Congratulations to both Temitope Adeyemo and Mrs. Shelia Clackum!