Wentzville Educators Honored for Professional Development

Two Wentzville School District educators have been recognized by the Missouri Staff Development Council (MSDC).

Susan Gauzy, assistant superintendent of curriculum, instruction and assessment, was presented with the Outstanding Instructional Leadership award. Holt High School math teacher Constance Hallemeier was honored as Outstanding Teacher at the annual Show-Me Professional Development Conference.

The MSDC recognizes educators who have had a significant impact on students and their fellow educators. There is a stringent scoring guide that aligns to the
Learning Forward Standards for Professional Learning, and the MSDC recognizes
instructional leaders who exceed in all 12 standards.

The Outstanding Instructional Leadership Award is designed to recognize an instructional leader who has guided colleagues toward high quality professional development.

Gauzy has been with the district for five years, and is a driving force behind major initiatives that have increased student learning and achievement.

“Next to being called ‘Mom’ and ‘GiGi,' there's no better accolade for me than
Outstanding Instructional Leader,” said Gauzy. “It makes my heart sing!”

The MSDC Outstanding Teacher Award is presented to an individual who exemplifies high quality teaching, engages in high quality professional development, and who has made significant contributions to the school and district throughout their professional career.

Hallemeier is an engaging educator who has been teaching in the district since 2003, and was selected by her peers as the Holt High School Teacher of the Year for 2011-12.

“I would have to say that winning validates my excitement for professional
development. I thoroughly enjoy learning new strategies, trying those ideas, and helping others learn about them if they are successful.”