Education Student Receives Honor

Jesse M. Rodriguez, a K-12 special education major from Grottoes, Va., was one of only two Virginia students selected from the 37 teacher preparation colleges and universities in the state to receive a $1,000 award and scholarship from the Virginia Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (VACTE).

The scholarship, which is based on overall grade point average and recommendation from the education department, is also heavily determined by the candidate’s ability to clearly articulate how his teaching will positively affect the lives of students and their learning.

Members of the selection committee noted at the award ceremony that Rodriguez' desire to analyze his own effectiveness in teaching was a key component in his being chosen for the award.

Rodriguez was honored at a VACTE spring conference held at Sweet Briar College in early April, where he gave a brief address to the attendees.

In response Dr. Sandy Cohen, chairperson of the VACTE Scholarship Committee and director of teacher education at the University of Virginia, highlighted a quote from Rodriquez' essay, noting his desire "to become a reflective educator who is able to respond to the needs of all of his students by purposefully reflecting on his own teaching."

"This award has been another sign of affirmation for my decision to get into special education," Rodriquez said. "I wouldn't have had this opportunity if it weren't for my professors who kept pushing me and encouraging me in what I am doing."

"Jesse has excellent communication and analysis skills that are essential for advocating for special education students," said Dr. Donovan D. Steiner, director of teacher education at EMU.

Rodriguez is the son of Antero (Sonny) and Ann Rodriquez of Grottoes.

— article by: Jim Bishop; posted April 15, 2005