CROMWELL - Sarah Turner, a teacher at Woodside Intermediate School (WIS), received an unexpected surprise over the summer months: She is the recipient of the 2014 Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year Award from the CT Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (CTAHPERD).

       Turner has been teaching physical education in the Cromwell School District for nearly 10 years, having taught at Edna C. Stevens Elementary School before moving up to WIS about six years ago. Turner was not aware she had been nominated until she received an email, last spring, informing her that she was in the running for the award.

       â€�"Even though I am not sure how the nomination came about, I am truly grateful. It is such an honor,” said Turner.

       To be eligible for the award, four nomination letters addressing the core award areas were required from a combination of colleagues, students/parents, and administrators. A nominated teacher must demonstrate excellence in use of teaching methodologies and innovative programs that optimize students’ education and generally accepted standards of practice for physical education. Additionally, teachers must also serve as a positive role model for personal health and fitness, enjoyment of physical activity, and sensitivity to the physical and emotional needs of all students. Candidates for the award also had to demonstrate service to their profession through advocacy; consultation, in-service training presentations, and professional development were among the other criteria for the award.

       The letter Turner received from CTAHPERD during the summer appeared to her, at first, to be just like any other professional correspondence.

       â€�"Upon opening the letter, it stated, ‘Congratulations--you have been selected as Elementary PE Teacher of the Year.’I couldn’t believe what I was reading. I think my husband thought something was wrong! When I read it out loud to him, it started to sink in. To me, this is an award that I never expected to receive. ”

       CTAHPERD described Turner as an effective, conscientious, fit and energetic teacher that keeps her students engaged. Students have fun while learning from her. She is also a teacher-leader for Healthy Living and has organized in-school Brain Breaks and school-wide walking events. Turner also is spearheading the Safe Routes to School initiative for the district.

       Turner said she â€�"doesn’t consider [herself] as being the best.” But those who know her--students, faculty, staff and parents--deeply appreciate her humility, passion and commitment to the well-being of students and the educational environment.

       â€�"This award would not be possible if it wasn’t for Cromwell students,” added Turner. â€�"This award is for all students--past, present and future--and helping them achieve the knowledge necessary to lead a healthy and active lifestyle for a lifetime.” 

       Turner is a graduate of Keene State College and completed her master’s degree at Central Connecticut State University. Currently, she is completing course work in Educational Leadership at CCSU. Her goals for 2015 include working with the PE Department to continue to build the overall curriculum throughout the district. She will continue to pursue innovative ways to build knowledge as well as the challenge and enjoyment of physical activity among students and staff. 

       â€�"Most importantly,” she said, â€�"it is my goal to continue to be the best I can as a model for other educators and students so the importance of health and physical education is never lost.”