Kindergarten teacher named newest Heartbeat Team member
[October 18, 2010]
Tonita Hall, a Kindergarten teacher, received the latest Mansfield ISD Heartbeat Team Award during a surprise presentation at Carol Holt Elementary. Tonita was selected for her dedication to students both in the classroom and outside of it.
District Superintendent Dr. Bob Morrison, along with Holt Elementary Principal Kelly Campbell, surprised Tonita in her classroom on Friday, October 15.
Tonita Hall has a strong connection with each of her 22 students. It is not a surprise to any of them for her to show up on a weekday, or weekend at one of their sporting events. She is not a quiet spectator either, but a very proud fan cheering them on. Hall brings hand made goodies such as bookmarks, key chains and even personalized foam fingers to share with them after the game. The following school day, she lets the child sit on a special stool in her classroom as she brags on them and their accomplishments.
“As a district employee, she has inspired me to try and make more of a connection outside the classroom with the students I serve. I have seen first hand what an impact this has on students,” said Carolee Wilson, Cross Timbers Librarian and parent of a former student in Hall’s classroom.
Daily the students are accompanied by Hall in the cafeteria so she can ensure each one of them has made it through the serving line with food and drink. After they are settled, she then makes time for her own lunch. On days a student is absent, she calls them at home to let them know she and the class missed them. Even if the student has a bad day or gets in trouble, she places a phone call of encouragement to let them know tomorrow will be better.
The Mansfield ISD administration is proud to present the October 2010 Heartbeat Team Award to Tonita Hall for her extraordinary efforts in connecting with students and fostering the love of school.
The Heartbeat Team was established to recognize employees who display heart in their lives and inspire other employees with their actions. Mansfield ISD staff members are invited to nominate other employees for this award.
