Canton Repository Teacher of the Month: Mark Perretta, Canton Local
NAME – Mark Perretta
SCHOOL – Multi-County Attention Center, via Canton Local
RESIDENCE – Perry Township
HIGH SCHOOL ALMA MATER – St. Thomas Aquinas High School
COLLEGE – John Carroll University
FAMILY – Wife, Dana; children Angela, Anthony and Alexis; and dog Leia.
WHAT SUBJECTS DO YOU TEACH? – English, grades six to 12.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? – I love sharing my passion and knowledge with my students and seeing the looks on their faces when they learn something new. I want my students to feel Hamlet’s pain or witness Santiago’s courage while battling sharks. I want them to appreciate a transcendentalist’s love of nature or share Emily Bronte’s and Emily Dickinson’s heartbreak. It is so wonderful to teach something new … a novel, a concept, an interpretation … and making a connection so that a new light shines through.
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR JOB? – Cell phones in a school setting are a scourge. Hopefully, our government and administrators around the country realize this. Also, for those who have to, structuring a curriculum that just teaches to passing a test.
WHAT SECRET TO SUCCESS WOULD YOU SHARE WITH STUDENTS? – Be passionate about life. If you have a dream or an idea, chase it. Run after it! Never stop learning or engaging in life. There are too many wonderful things our world has to offer. Quit making excuses about how someone or something failed you. Don’t be like water taking the path of least resistance. Get out of your own way. Carpe Diem!
IS TEACHING KIDS THE SAME TODAY AS WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED? – No. Technology has afforded many wonderful opportunities to meet with, discuss, and present to anyone, anywhere in the world. Any piece of information is at hand for a teacher. But we also need to realize that as a community’s values change, so does the child.
YOUR STUDENTS WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT YOU … – I published both a novella and a novel. I have invented a product for fishing that protects the hooks on lures and filed for both a design and utility patent. Anyone from Bass Pro Shop feel free to contact me. I love to play chess, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors.
WHAT IS YOUR HIDDEN TALENT? – I have always considered myself an “idea” person. I enjoy coming up with ideas to solve problems … so I guess it’s my creativity.
IF YOU WEREN’T A TEACHER, YOU’D BE – Working at NASA on the James Webb Space Telescope, or a pilot, or a geologist, or a painter, or a poet, or a photographer … Sorry, I just can’t narrow it down. Just not a politician or lawyer.
AFTER A LONG DAY AT WORK, WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO RELAX? – I really enjoy just being outside. I love to fish and hunt. I enjoy taking the dog to the track. I have three waterfalls in my yard and a little bit of land to take care of so that keeps me busy. I appreciate a hard day’s work under the sun, and then sitting back and enjoying it with a cold glass of milk at the end of the day.
Other nominees
ALLIANCE
Kaley Sloane, intervention specialist at Alliance Elementary School − Kaley is an educator whose dedication is second to none when it comes to students and other staff in the building. Her passion for teaching shows daily in her positive attitude and endless love she has for her students.
Dave Hammers, Project Lead the Way at Alliance Middle School − Mr. Hammers is always looking for creative ways to engage the middle school students of Alliance. This school year, he has taken on the task of creating some fun and engaging daily morning video announcements that are led and produced by the students in his class.
CANTON CITY
Nellie Walsh, preschool teacher, Early Learning Center at Schreiber School − Ms. Walsh is not only well respected by her students, families and colleagues, but she is genuinely a valued member of the preschool team. Nellie serves on many committees that help drive our decisions, and she always goes above and beyond, while acting as a voice of reason, and demonstrating a strong work ethic.
Tylor Bennetts, ELA at Choices High School − When two ambitious students decided that they were going to be president and vice president of the Student Council they were founding, Tylor encouraged their student voices, and as a result, our once-disengaged students are alive with fresh ideas because of his leadership. Tylor takes a genuine interest in the students of the Canton City School District and encourages them to strive for excellence.
CANTON LOCAL
Mark Perretta, English − Mark is an extremely dedicated professional, working with youth at Multi-County and bringing literature alive for students through dramatic readings and connections to real-life events. In addition to working with his students during school hours, he also finds time for pickup basketball games and has taught the students how to play chess on the evenings and weekends.
FAIRLESS LOCAL
Wes Yoder, government − Mr. Wes Yoder “Soars to Excellence” each day through his ability to connect with students from all walks of life. He takes the time to get to know his students' individual interests and needs, and he creates a classroom environment where everyone feels safe and supported. Mr. Yoder genuinely cares about the success of his students, and that shines through in his classroom lessons each day. Mr. Yoder is a team player and will step up for a variety of responsibilities when asked because he knows it will help students. Mr. Yoder is an asset to the Fairless family.
LAKE CENTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Amy Smith, fourth grade − Amy is dedicated to her students and her team. She works hard to provide opportunities and resources that will help students grasp content. With her Orton Gillingham certification and expertise in reading intervention she has been able to support faculty, staff, and multiple grade levels of students to find success!
Mark Kell, seventh grade science and seventh grade Bible − Mr. Kell is a welcomed addition to our Junior High team. The incorporation of science principles in a multi-sensory way allows for our students in Junior High to fully experience and dive deeply into the science standards. His positive relationship-building with students allows him the opportunity to meet the needs of students in and out of the classroom in unique ways. His actions in his classroom indicate to students that they are seen and that they belong.
LAKE LOCAL
Danny Reed, first grade − Danny Reed is a first-grade teacher at Lake Primary. He consistently demonstrates a tireless commitment to his students' education and personal growth. He goes above and beyond to ensure that every student in his class has the opportunity to excel. His classroom is a nurturing learning environment where all students feel valued and welcomed. He has made a profound impact on the lives of all of his students. Danny is always willing to help anyone at Lake Primary in any sort of capacity, being an incredible team member and leader. Lake Primary is lucky to have Danny Reed on our team.
Hilda Ardila, Spanish 2 − Spanish 2 has traditionally proven to be one of the most challenging World Language classes for our students at Lake Middle High School. Fortunately, we have the right teacher for the job. Hilda Ardila continues to take our well-prepared yet relatively inexperienced Spanish students to another level, teaching them the language, culture, and skills that will enable them to function among those in their native countries. She provides a high-energy, somewhat intense, and extremely positive learning experience for her students who, in turn, work to meet the high expectations of a teacher who clearly wants them to see and realize their potential. They care, and they know that Señora Ardila cares, as well.
LOUISVILLE
Mark Adams, guidance counselor − Mark Adams is a true man of character. He is an amazing listener and goes the extra mile for all of our students. Mark’s dedication and loyalty to the students and staff here at LES is unprecedented. We are proud to have Mr. Adams as one of our guidance counselors. Go Browns!
MASSILLON
Julie Hamilton, Title teacher − Julie Hamilton is a Title Teacher at Whittier Elementary. Julie works with readers to provide them with the tools needed to be successful. e are so grateful for Julie's knowledge. Julie has volunteered her time to help at parent/student events and is a member of our Positive Behavior Intervention Supports Team. We are grateful for the 30 years Julie has given the Massillon City Schools District.
Megan Ridgley, physical science − I am honored to recommend Megan as the Massillon Washington High School nomination for teacher of the month. Megan has led her science department in the establishment and organization of creating a relationship between the high school science department and our elementary school students whereby the high school science department teaches and engages students at our elementary schools. The focus of these lessons between the high school and elementary school is aligned to science standards, is engaging for the students, and is well organized. In addition, as a classroom teacher, she is consistent with her daily routines and teaches the necessary organizational skills to her students. Her daily lessons are engaging, and she strives to build positive relationships with her students on a regular basis, while holding them accountable. We are thankful to have Megan at Massillon Washington High School.
MINERVA LOCAL
Ben Miller, art − Ben Miller’s hard work, creativity, and willingness to help his students have not gone unnoticed. Under Mr. Miller's guidance, students at Minerva Middle School have produced exceptional works of art that showcase their creativity and talent. His inclusive teaching style has allowed students of all backgrounds and skill levels to feel comfortable and confident in their ability to create. In addition to his dedication to teaching, Mr. Miller has demonstrated a willingness to go above and beyond to help his students succeed. He has provided extra support and resources to students who are struggling, and his commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed is truly admirable. Mr. Miller's passion for teaching art and his ability to inspire his students have made him a role model and an inspiration to his colleagues and the school community. His contributions to the art program have enriched the school experience for countless students, and his impact will be felt for years to come.
NORTH CANTON
Aimee Anderson, intervention specialist − Aimee is a great team player and is always willing to help students and colleagues. She has a heart for helping students who are struggling academically, socially, and emotionally. Aimee is a great asset for NCIS!
Beth Hileman, intervention specialist group instructor − Beth goes above and beyond to ensure that her students’ needs are met. She tirelessly advocates for her kids. More than anything, Beth sets high standards, encourages her students and shows them that she believes in them. This is why her students continue to work hard and show growth.
OSNABURG LOCAL
Jackie Custer, intervention specialist − I am pleased to nominate Miss Jackie Custer for the Canton Repository Teacher of the Month award! Miss Custer’s dedication and passion for teaching are truly commendable. Her genuine care for our students at ECMS is evident in the remarkable support and guidance she provides as an intervention specialist and coach each and every day. Miss Custer is a true inspiration to us all.
Julie Raber, high school English − I am pleased to nominate Mrs. Julie Raber for the Canton Repository Teacher of the Month award. Mrs. Raber is an exceptional teacher leader at East Canton High School, and her dedication to her students is truly commendable. With an unwavering attention to detail in her classes, she inspires her students to discover and pursue their passions and purpose in life. What sets Mrs. Raber apart is her remarkable ability to build strong and meaningful relationships with her students. Through these connections, she imparts valuable life lessons about resiliency and helps them find their unique paths to success. Her impact on the students and the school community is undeniable, making her a deserving candidate for this recognition.
PERRY LOCAL
Heather Egert, fourth grade − Heather is a top-notch teacher who always puts her best efforts into her students. Heather attained the highest composite value-added level on last year's state tests, which meant her students made significant gains in learning and outperformed their peers across the state. Heather is also extremely involved as a leader at Whipple Heights Elementary. She is a member of the Building Leadership Team and the District Leadership Team. Her expertise and input help make Perry a better place!
Lynn Olszewski, science − Lynn is a science teacher at Edison Middle School. Her devotion and love for teaching is apparent each and every day as she works tirelessly to help our students achieve their best. Lynn’s impact and influence on our students' interest in science is resounding. On this past year’s state science test, Lynn’s students performed at the top of the state for student levels of growth. Perry Local is proud to have Lynn as a true professional who makes a difference!
PLAIN LOCAL
Maggie Larke, grade 2 − Miss Larke’s cheerful and welcoming personality encourages those with whom she interacts on a daily basis. Her positivity, high standards of learning, compassion, and respect for her students cultivates an environment of success for all who enter. As a member of the Barr staff, Miss Larke’s collaboration with her colleagues contributes to building a stronger teaching community.
Jon Kocher, academic improvement instructor − Mr. Kocher's ability to build positive relationships with all of his students makes him known as a trusted adult throughout the building. Mr. Kocher’s strengths of organization, motivation and dependability make him an outstanding team member who pushes students to their fullest potential. These qualities not only make Mr. Kocher an outstanding educator but a person of impact at GlenOak High School. Keep soaring, Mr. Kocher.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Mrs. Capretta, middle school religion − This teacher goes out of her way for the students, making them feel welcome and loved every day. She started as a substitute, once the kids knew they might not have her for that class all year, the students started a petition for her to be hired as their teacher. There is a level of mutual respect between Mrs. Capretta and her students; they truly enjoy her and her class!
STARK COUNTY CATHOLIC ELEMENTARIES
Erica Quicci, third grade − Mrs. Quicci does an excellent job of getting to know her students and making them all feel welcome and loved. She presents engaging lessons and gives individual support for her students. She also is helpful for other staff members and is a key member of the social committee. She is committed to the mission of Our Lady of Peace!
This article originally appeared on The Alliance Review: Canton Repository Teacher of the Month: Mark Perretta, Canton Local
