Position: Third Grade Teacher
School: Union Township Elementary School
School District: Union Township Schools
City, State: Hampton, NJ
Rhonda Pevorus was nominated by her colleague of two years, Debra Sinkiewicz.
"I am continually impressed with Rhonda's dedication to both her students and Union Township School as a whole," said Sinkiewicz. "She is determined to reach every student in her classroom and often varies her teaching style to accommodate a student’s specific needs."
Ms. Pevorus motivates her class with numerous activities, such as a classroom reading chart and cooperative learning groups. Students earn special rewards as a group, fostering a strong classroom community. She also motivates students as individuals, encouraging them to meet or exceed their goals. Each student is in her class feels accepted, supported and loved. Her positive attitude and funny demeanor keeps her students engaged and excited about learning. Always looking for new teaching ideas, Ms. Pevorus often incorporates new styles of learning into her classroom. Every day, she brings a new adventure to her students. This approach has influenced and directed each of her students over the years! Her former students frequently return to her class for visits, which is further proof of her impact on her students!
She has a great rapport with the parents of her students as well, and they often request her as their teacher. Parents have even approached her after their child has left her classroom for advice going forward. She has a great sense of humor and a positive outlook that is reflective in her relationships with her students and their parents.
Ms. Pevorus continually takes the lead in key administrative roles as well. She is often a mentor to new teachers, leading them through the difficult “first year” process. As a part of Union Township’s Vision 2023, she has taken the lead in numerous committees, providing useful insight and unique ideas. She has been asked to take the lead in creating and incorporating new math curriculum. Ms. Pevorus is also on the leadership committee for Future Ready Schools, working to prepare the students at Union Township Elementary School for the digital age. She is a part of SIP, using the data from the state testing to provide information on both strengths and areas that need improvement within her district.
Ms. Pevorus was an active participant in Hunterdon County’s Techfest over the summer, providing insight on new technology for teachers in the classroom. As a participant, she not only encouraged other teachers from other districts, but highlighted the strong teachers of Union Township Schools. Ms. Pevorus has also taken the lead in training staff at Union Township. Often used as a turnkey, she provides insight, training and support with new computer programs and technology for others. She does all of this with a positive, friendly attitude.
"For these reasons as well as many others, it is without reservation that I nominate Rhonda Pevorus for LifeChanger of the Year. I feel that we, the staff and students of UTES, are lucky to have her as a part of our Tiger Family, and I am proud to be a small part of her creative and inspiring classroom," said Sinkiewicz.