Music that Describes Stephanie
Stephanie Glanz was nominated by an anonymous colleague.
"To know Stephanie is to love Stephanie," said her nominator. "She will be a legend in our district. She was hired in 1984 and never stopped slowing down or perfecting her craft. I wish we had a Walk of Fame in our district; she would surely have a star. She will retire this year, and we are all crying tears of joy and gratitude for the service, dedication, leadership, and countless lives she impacted on her journey. She isn't just a teacher; she is a leader in education. We have only been too lucky to know and see her at work, so we can try to learn and improve our own practice from seeing her model."
Mrs. Glanz was Teacher of the Year recently and could be nominated every year. She is just exceptional! She has been a member of DKG and serves and supports in so many ways. The children and students of Escondido have been her children. She doesn't just teach; she loves. She helped start and support Girls on the Run on her campus.
"Stephanie is a bright light of support to her staff and our whole district," said her nominator. "She has been a Master Teacher. We thank her for sharing her expertise with so many teachers who have had the opportunity to learn from her."
Her students, colleagues, and district all love her. Mrs. Glanz has raised the bar so high and has been a shining example. She does whatever she can to support her colleagues. She is humble and has been an exemplary leader.
"Rita Pierson once said, 'Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be,'" said her nominator. "Stephanie Glanz has been a champion for our students, teachers, and the district. How can we thank her for all she has done? We hope she takes comfort in knowing she has a forever family in Escondido - her home. We hope she takes comfort in knowing she shined brightly in all she has done. Her gifts will continue to shine brightly, and her example will continue in all she has touched and will pass on through again and again.
"Nelson Mandela once said, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,'" said her nominator. "Stephanie Glanz has surely changed the world."
I first met Stephanie many years ago, near the start of my teaching career. When I transferred to the school where she was teaching, I knew almost none of the staff, including her. On the first day of school, I found a little treat in my box with a note along the lines of, “Welcome to our staff! Have a great first day!” It was from Stephanie. Later, when my birthday came, she sent me a note saying she was taking my duty for me that day, and wishing me a great birthday. At some point, I started to realize that the small gestures and kindnesses I saw from her all the time were only hinting at her amazing spirit, a spirit that was a well of love, compassion, kindness, selflessness, and service. I am going on 23 years of teaching now, and I have been fortunate to work with some amazing teachers, but if anyone asked me to list a few, I would name Stephanie without hesitation. She is the epitome of service, and service above self. She understands children and loves them in a way few people in the world do. She is the person you always want on your team, and by your side. And she will always have your back, too. There is no way to calculate or describe the influence someone with Stephanie’s heart and soul has over a career in education, the thousands of lives she has touched and helped make better. It is, quite simply, beyond measure. From all of us who know you, Stephanie, we send you all our love, and wish you a wonderful retirement.
Stephanie is a phenomenal teacher and mentor for many. She is respected and inspirational. She is always looking for ways to better herself and those around her. EUSD has been blessed to have this amazing woman in our district for so many years. Stephanie, thank you for all you have done for our community. You will be greatly missed!
Stephanie is one of the most giving persons. She constantly thinks of others and how she can be helpful to them. When another person is needed for a responsibility, it seems that she is always volunteering. I was so impressed by her work with the "Girls on the Run" program. The time and dedication she gave to these children, helping them to gain self-confidence and to value themselves, seemed endless. She did it simply because she cares so much about others, definitely not because of a desire to gain recognition for herself. She is a Life Changer.
Stephanie was one of the first people to welcome me to the district in my first position out of grad school as a speech and language pathologist. Many may not know this about Stephanie, but in addition to being the most incredible classroom teacher, she also has a degree in speech and language pathology/communicative disorders. Yes, Stephanie was the Rock Springs SLP prior to me, when she felt called to teach in the classroom. Lucky for me, I had an experienced SLP on campus to help mentor me!
Stephanie was also my oldest daughter's first grade teacher. My daughter is now 26 and still recalls not only the learning that took place in her classroom, but remembers how confident and loved that "Mrs. Glanz" made her feel. Isn't that what it is all about? Isn't our "real" job to help students become adults who are amazing members of society? I truly believe that Stephanie set my daughter up on the right path to become not only a successful scholar, but a kind and caring human being as well. As a parent, I am not alone in my gratitude. I observed Stephanie year after year, as she went above and beyond for each and every child in her classroom, for the school as a whole, and the Escondido community as well. One year, Stephanie heard that we had a student on campus (not in her class) whose family could not afford the cost of much needed hearing aids. Guess what? Stephanie and her husband purchased a set of hearing aids for that student. If any of you know how much hearing aids cost, well then, you know this was quite the gift. Stephanie Glanz, you are one amazing lady. If only you knew how many lives you have changed over your tenure at EUSD! My family and I love you!
Stephanie Glanz, Thank you so much for being an example in our district! Your work, passion, and commitment to education has be inspiring. The love, support, and professionalism you have provided all your classes and your colleagues is so evident. You have touched so many people- I hope you feel so happy and full with all you have done. I loved getting to know you better on DKG. I wish I could have worked with you at the same site, but you are so impactful you made a difference across schools. I think it is rare to find someone that can do that. You made our district a special place for everyone. You went beyond expectations- you are exceptional! I am better for knowing you and seeing your example. Thank you for all you have done to help us in Escondido- your home and your family. You are a life changer! Thank you isn't enough. We are forever appreciative and you will live on with the work you paved. Thank you for being our ROCK, our friend, and a shining example in our district. Continue on with beautiful things and we can't wait to see what you do next!
Stephanie is one in a million! Not only is she a fabulous teacher, but she is an amazing person! She knows how to LOVE WELL. Stephanie has a way of making everyone feel special because she takes that extra time to really get to know people and to nurture a relationship with them. She is generous, kind, humble, and encouraging. She is the kind of teacher and person who we all would love to be! She is the gold standard! Stephanie truly shines her love on others in so many thoughtful and generous ways. She is a life changer!
There is no better teacher or person than Mrs. Glanz! She is hands down everything that all educators and humans in general should strive to be. She has a light about her, and a way to make whoever she is near shine brighter. All that and she has the most giving, grateful, humble heart. Everyone she comes in contact with is better for it. She truly is a life changer!
Congratulations, Stephanie!! You so deserve this honor. Each an every year you have been an inspiration to our teaching staff. When we would come back from summer you always had some great idea or project to share that made us all better teachers! And you always did it with grace. Our success as teachers will forever have the everlasting echo of your dedication to improving the future of our community.
I struggle to find the right words to describe Steph... she is the heart and soul of our school and her impact on those around her is immeasurable. It is an honor and a privilege to have spent the last five years working closely together and it is with a very heavy heart that I wish her a happy and relaxing retirement. And to end with a quote from a book that will always make me think of her "People who love each other are always connected by a very special String, made of love. Even though you can't see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart, and know that you are always connected to the ones you love." - The Invisible String. You are connected to my heart always Glanz! I love you!!
I met Stephanie at a new teacher colloquium when we were seated at the same table. I had requested to be seated with a principal that I wanted to “show off” for. That principal ended up coming late and sitting at another table. I told my mentor at the time that I was bummed and she told me “well you have Stephanie glanz at your table, and you are going to love her!” Stephanie and I connected right away. She was so sweet, and so interested in what I was sharing. We decided to keep in touch in hopes of observing one another the following school year. Even though that didn’t happen, I ended up finding out that I’d be transferring to Stephanie's school site this past year (with a little nudge from her ;)). Stephanie made me an end of the year “smiles” basket; a gift a day. It was one of the nicest and sweetest gestures. Even though this year ended early and was unfortunately Stephanie's last year teaching, I had the honor of seeing her smiling face every morning from my classroom, and her help and guidance for the year we had. She is such a delight to learn from and work with, and her students are oh so lucky to have her as a teacher! Stephanie you are an amazing person inside and out, and so caring and generous. Nobody could deserve this award more than you do! Congratulations!
I have been fortunate enough to work alongside Stephanie for the last 15 years. Stephanie is the person we all aspire to be. She goes the extra mile in everything she does with a big smile on her face and a heart full of love. Everyone who has had the privilege of working with Stephanie knows how truly amazing she is.
In her own quiet way she is a hero to many. To the student who needs a jacket, one magically appears. To the teacher who had a rough day, a note of encouragement. To the parent who is unable to get their child to school, she offers a ride. To the child who struggles socially, she spends time during recess training this child to be a super hero. To the dance team needing new uniforms, the financial support quietly appears. The list is never ending. Because Mrs. Glanz sprinkles her kindness and generosity wherever she goes and expects nothing in return, there are many things she has done that we will probably never even know about.
If you were fortunate enough to have once been her student, you are forever in her heart. Not only does she cheer on her students in the school setting, but she also attends numerous events outside of school. The events are too numerous to name, but just to give you an idea, she has attended numerous sporting events, graduations, 5k walks, weddings, baby showers, and the list goes on and on. This is pretty remarkable since she has taught 1st grade most of her career.
She considers her colleagues family and does whatever it takes to help them thrive. She has been a mentor in our district and school site. She has led book studies on campus and districtwide, encouraging teachers to be their best selves. She honored our entire staff by organizing a week long staff appreciation event each year.
We are all better people for having known Stephanie Glanz and we will continue to be inspired by her kindness and love for all.
Stephanie, you are one in a million! You have the biggest heart and are always helping others. I am so thankful that I have been able to work with you for years and watch you make a difference in every one of your student's lives. My daughter was lucky enough to have you as her teacher in first grade. I remember at Back-to-School Night, you told us that "our" children were also "your" children and that you loved them just as much...you left us all in tears! (Most emotional B2SN of my life! LOL)
Even though you are retiring, I am positive you will continue to touch people's lives as only you can do.
You will be missed, but your legacy will live on. Hugs!
Stephanie Glanz is truly a life changer! I have known Stephanie since childhood, as our moms were sorority sisters and our families often camped together. When I was first hired as a teacher, Stephanie presented me with a special welcome basket filled with all the things a new teacher needed. I will never forget her kindness. She continued to support me throughout my time at Conway Elementary and again when we opened Rock Springs Elementary. I watched Stephanie continually reach out to connect with people, make them feel welcome, and always lift them up. Stephanie has always been this beautiful soul who, through action, teaches others to be a better person. She has always been highly respected by colleagues and parents! Every child who has entered her room has been lucky indeed! Stephanie is completely deserving of this award! You will be hard pressed to find another person who has changed so many lives.
I have had the honor, privilege and pleasure of working closely with Stephanie for the past 9 years. She is a gem like no other. Her love and dedication to our students and community is inspiring. Stephanie is the heart and soul our our school. Her selfless nature dictates her daily actions and decisions. She gives, gives, gives expecting nothing in return. As Stephanie approaches the end of her illustrious teaching career, she leaves behind a wonderful legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity.
I am sooo proud of you Mrs. Glanz, you are the best.!!!
Stephanie Glanz is the most amazing teacher I have ever known. I have had the privilege and honor to work with Stephanie for over 15 years. She is kind, loving, and gentle in her speech, her modeling, and her every day living. She has a heart of gold and doesn't hesitate to love on anyone who comes her way. I feel I'm a better teacher and community member because of the modeling I have received from Stephanie Glanz.
"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." - Pablo Picasso. Thank you for all the extraordinary ways you have touched all those of us who are lucky enough to call you; teacher, friend and colleague. I have quite a few special memories of your extraordinary love and caring. One day Kenny did something in your 1st grade class - you had a 'happiness heart attack' and called me (mom) in the middle of the day, in front of the class, to share your happiness and some details of the happiness event. Many years after - you and Kenny planned a special day together - that included lunch and a trip to the book store to share your love of good books. He beamed for weeks and still holds the book bought that day dear. And then there was the day (and all through the afternoon and evening) you were there to cheer him on as he tested for the next belt rank. And he is only one of the hundreds of students you have opened up your big heart to, stayed connected with, cheered on and made time for. Your endless positivity and compassion have touched many. Your love and dedication to your students help them know they can conquer any difficulty that comes their way. We are SO blessed to have had you in our lives.