Supporting Carmel Valley's Teachers

by Councilman Scott Peters
June 2003

As spring turns to summer and children begin to look forward to their time at the beach and families begin to plan their summers, it is important to look back at the school year and appreciate the time and energy put in by our area school teachers. The State of California’s budget troubles have made it an especially difficult year for education. It is more important than ever that we tell those who make a difference in the lives of our children, that they are appreciated and valued in our community.

That is why I was pleased to participate for a second year in the Annual Crystal Apple Awards hosted by the Latter-Day Saints Church in Carmel Valley. The awards honor teachers from around North County who have made a significant impact in the lives of local students. The awards are particularly special because they are given to teachers by their students. The act of thanking those who make a difference in our lives is a wonderful example that we can all follow.

I would like to tell you about the two Carmel Valley teachers honored with Crystal Apples:

Denise Sterger is in her 7th year teaching high school, but in her first year at Torrey Pines High School. She currently teaches 10th grade World History and is also the head coach of the girls gymnastics team. Prior to teaching at Torrey Pines High School she taught 5 years at Murrieta Valley High School where she served as a Department Coordinator. Ms. Sterner strongly believes in the saying “it takes a village to raise a child.” She also believes parent involvement and community support are invaluable components in a child=s education. She says it is within this partnership that we all share the responsibility of inspiring our students to be confident, self-motivated, productive students.

Jasmine Stiles grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and lived there most of her life. In Ohio, she taught Health and Physical Education for 5 years before making the decision to move to San Diego and continue her passion for teaching. Ms. Stiles has been teaching 13 years and says that she has loved every moment. She was the ASB director at both San Diequito High School and La Costa Canyon High School before moving on to Carmel Valley Middle School. She teaches Physical Education full time as well as serving as the department chairperson.

We should be proud of these and other teachers from the area awarded with the Crystal Apple and all the teachers who share the love of learning with their students.

The investments that teachers make in the lives of our kids return tremendous dividends in producing our future scientists, teachers, doctors, and public servants. As we get ready for a busy summer I’d ask that you take a moment to thank your child’s teachers for their hard work. The Crystal Apple Awards are a wonderful way for students to express their appreciation, but we should all take the time to thank the many people who serve our children. Before you talk to that teacher, think about the teacher who made a difference in your life and what you would tell him or her if you had the chance today.