NEWINGTON - Newington Public Schools have announced the 2015-16 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Jonas P. Roberts, grade 3 teacher at Anna Reynolds Elementary School.

       Each year, all teachers have the opportunity to nominate members of the professional staff who they feel have contributed in a special way to the teaching and learning experiences taking place in Newington. Mr. Roberts was selected based upon his exceptional skill and dedication to children and the teaching profession. He is intelligent, a strong communicator, an advocate for all students and a strong believer that public education is the vehicle to prepare all children for participation in our society. He is an individual who is poised and articulate, with an outgoing nature. He possesses the superior ability to inspire learning in all students. Mr. Roberts will represent Newington in the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program.

       Mr. Roberts is a graduate of Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. He completed his Master of Science in reading at Central Connecticut State University as well.

       Mr. Roberts has been teaching in Newington for 14 years, since 2001, at Anna Reynolds Elementary School. Prior to Newington, Mr. Roberts was a teacher with the Meriden Public Schools.

       Mr. Roberts is dedicated to his students and fosters a strong rapport between students and himself and establishes early communication with students and parents. Mr. Roberts is a dedicated professional, leader and trendsetter amongst his colleagues, and the teacher that every parent wants his or her child to have. In the classroom, Jonas is a larger-than-life presence for his students. He convinces them learning is fun, exciting and, more importantly, his expectation. Children follow his every move and suggestion with wide-eyed excitement. He leads, inspires, teaches and cares. Jonas consistently models a love of learning and demonstrates patience and genuine interest in his students.

       When asked by the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Selection Committee to share his personal feelings and beliefs about teaching, Mr. Roberts said, â€�"Teaching is my calling and passion. I share my passion for learning with my students and my colleagues. The greatest accomplishment I can have as a teacher is to inspire my students to be passionately curious and persistent problem solvers. I believe a classroom should be conducted as a community of learners where students actively lead and participate in discussions with high, attainable expectations for all members.”

       Mr. Roberts is a very reflective, motivated professional who is always learning. Jonas stays abreast of current research and applies new learning in his classroom. Mr. Roberts collaborates most effectively with his colleagues to enhance the learning process. He participates in curriculum writing and actively serves on school and district committees.

       Newington Superintendent of Schools Dr. William C. Collins will forward Mr. Roberts’ name and credentials to the state Department of Education.

       â€�"Mr. Roberts is an exemplary teacher,” said Collins. â€�"He serves as a role model to students and colleagues, consistently demonstrating the characteristics that he fosters in his students. I’ve always known Jonas would become Teacher of the Year at some point. I am very happy that day has finally arrived. His commitment to students and his love for children were driving factors in his selection as Newington’s Teacher of the Year.”