Starfish Teacher - Ashley Donnell

My choice for Starfish Teacher is Mrs. Ashley Donnell. Ashley embodies just what it means to be a starfish teacher, going above and beyond to make a lasting impact on students and coworkers alike. 

Ashley has transformed our ELL program into something fun and exciting for all of our newcomer students. She creates an environment for these students to feel safe and supported, which in turn, makes them eager to learn. She also ensures that the students who are still learning the language or the students who have graduated out of the program still are supported and making progress in their studies. Ashley’s passion for her students does not stop with the students themselves as she has hosted EL family nights to ensure that the families of her students are also involved in their education, despite language barriers. 

Ashley not only makes an impact on her students, but also on her coworkers through her willingness to share her expertise, offering insightful strategies to help her students thrive in the general classrooms as well. Beyond her instructional talents, Ashley is a great friend. She is always ready to lend a listening ear, provide a word of encouragement and motivation, and uplift those around her with her passion for teaching. 

It is clear in all that she does that she loves her students, and that love shines in the successes and confidence that she fosters within them. Ashley, thank you for all that you do! You are truly making a difference - one student, one moment, and one starfish at a time. 

With love, 

Krislyn Clinton