Heather Turner was nominated by Danielle Levesque, a member of her community.
Ms. Turner is the caliber of educator for whom there are no sufficient adjectives. She has spent well over 10 years as a special educator who constantly innovates, plans, and executes engaging lessons and community trips. She builds rapport with students that lasts well beyond their middle school years. Additionally, she runs an inclusion club, is department chair and head of staff morale, and volunteers her time as a multi-sport Special Olympics coach. The world would be a better place with more Ms. Turners!
I can't think of a single person more deserving of this award than Heather. I first met her as my supervisor on a summer school field placement while studying to become a teacher. It was the most challenging placement I'd been in, and a fork in the road on my journey toward becoming an educator. I had to reflect on my own performance and my dreams, and truly consider whether I would be a good fit for education. Heather invited me to complete my next placement in her classroom, and it cemented everything for me. The fact that Heather builds up everyone around her (myself included), not just students, is what makes her stand out. Education is such a holistic and unique profession, and she excels in every aspect of it. She made me a better learner, and I am certain that I am now a better teacher and human being because of her.
Heather is certainly a life changer! See makes our school and community a better place. Heather goes above and beyond in every aspect. Our school community recently had a tragedy strike and Heather railled our school and district to provide support for a family in need. Thank you for all that you do Heather!
Congratulations, Heather! You are so deserving of this award because you do change lives for the better. Thank you for all that you do to help the students and families of the Gahanna community. We are so lucky to have you!
Heather is an amazing, top notch educator that focuses not only on the academic growth of her students, but also on their personal strengths, social and emotional growth and building their independence as they journey through middle school. Her ability to join students on their individual journey so that they can live their best life has always been inspiring to me.
Since my joining the staff at Gahanna Middle School West 7 years ago, I have truly been in awe of Heather's genuine compassion for students! She is a true advocate for students being seen past their abilities and sets a wonderful example for all to follow. In my 18 years of teaching, I have never seen someone as dedicated to others as Heather Turner..she is the epitome of a change maker!!!
Heather Turner is a person who sounds too good to be true when described. She is truly an incredible educator who forms connections with students and families that outlast the classroom. She plays a key role in building our school’s positive climate and culture. She is a dependable colleague who is willing to help absolutely anyone. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor than Heather.
As the principal at Gahanna Middle School West, I couldn't be more proud to have Heather Turner as a member of the MSW Team. Congratulations, Heather. You are deserving of this honor and so much more! Have a relaxing break. You have certainly earned it!
I've worked with Heather all of the years she's been at West, and there really are no words for the impact she's had on our student and staff community here in the building. From her tireless work on the Spread the Word to End the Word campaigns, to the West Buds program she started up in which her students are matched up with more able-bodied peers who are their friends, advocates, and aides, to her nonstop kind smile and loving, generous spirit with her kids, our entire building is a kinder, gentler place because of her! Additionally, I've never seen an educator continue their work into the community the way she has. Her after-hours and weekend Special Olympics involvement and other work with the disabled populations in the community are legendary around here! My daughter-in-law has a sister with Down's Syndrome, and my nephew's wife has a brother with Down's. Both families have known Heather Turner since the children were very small through her community work, and both families love & adore Heather for who she is and for everything she's done for their kids. Heather Turner is truly amazing.
