Monroe County School District Teacher of the Year
                                 Christelle Orr

Superintendent Randy Acevedo has announced that Christelle Orr,  a  teacher at Key West High School, has been named Monroe County School District’s Teacher of the Year. 

Christelle teaches French II and Advance Placement French.   She earned her Baccalaureate in Paris,  France and earned her BS. Degree in Education  from the University Renée Descartes-Paris V La Sorbonne, in Paris, France. She  earned her M.S. Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Florida State University.

Christelle commented, " I am a strong believer in collaborative learning. Throughout my experience in teaching foreign language, and English as a second language, I have come to believe students must interact in order to enhance their communication skills in the target language.

The fact that I grew up and studied in France is most beneficial to my ability to teach French to others, but also English as a second language. I believe I am an expert in French culture, literature and language. In addition, I learned about culture from other French speaking countries, such as Morocco, Mali, and Vietnam. Having learned English myself 10 years ago, I understand the needs and frustrations that some of my students endure.

In order to maintain my fluency, I go overseas at least once a year with a group of students. It is important for me to keep contact with my country of origin but also to be exposed to other cultures. These trips also provide multiple opportunities for my students. Such an opportunity opens their minds and gives them a purpose to their learning. I also read French books and newspapers daily, and listen to French radio stations on the Internet.

Literacy is constantly infused in my daily classroom instructions. I reinforce cognates and encourage students to use those words in their English compositions. Many students have mentioned their ability to understand new words because they have learned French.

In his recommendation,  Mr. Welsh wrote,  "Christelle’s dedication to education is evident in the many ways she gives of her time unselfishly. During this current school year Christelle conducted teacher leadership training for a professional development module for aspiring teacher leaders.  Christelle has been instrumental in organizing Key West High’s after school tutoring program.  Christelle has always shown enthusiasm and pride preparing reluctant learners for the FCAT test.  She is a well respected by faculty members and students alike who seek out her advice and friendship.

Christelle is a leader who inspires others through her example of dedicated work in the classroom.  As a professional she is constantly involved in personal staff development to improve and update her teaching skills. During the 06-07 school year Christelle volunteered to teach French to Marathon High School students via teleconferencing techniques.  She is always on the cutting edge with classroom technology and methodologies.

 I am proud of Christelle Orr for her accomplishments at Key West High School.  She is a valuable asset to the teaching profession and especially important to the young adults of Key West High School. "

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School Teachers of the Year;  2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008

District Teacher of the Year:    2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008

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