Ms. Jimmie Donnini, band director and fine arts department chair at North Cross School, was named the 2013 recipient of the Morris Award for Excellence in Teaching at the School’s Founders’ Day ceremony on February 1, 2013, in the Carter Athletic Center.

Now in its thirteenth year, the North Cross School Award for Excellence in Teaching recognizes a faculty member who has a minimum of three years teaching experience at North Cross School, expertise in his or her field, and the ability to effectively communicate that expertise/knowledge, the desire and commitment to grow professionally, and participation in the greater School community through co-curricular activities. Nominations for the award are made by other faculty and staff members at North Cross School.

“Jimmie maintains an exceptional classroom environment”, says Kevin Wells, Upper School faculty member. “Her students are eager to learn and participate. They are not afraid to make a mistak . They feel like they are able to be successful and improve. Her students respect her, are not afraid to ask questions, and sincerely enjoy being there. Jimmie is not only a great teacher, but also a wonderful colleague and administrator.”

Ms. Donnini has been teaching for twenty-five years and is currently in her thirteenth year of teaching at North Cross School. Jimmie earned her bachelor’s degree from Bridgewater College in Instrumental Music, with emphasis on teaching grades K-12.

Ms. Donnini says “My 25 years have gone by quickly, and I have felt successful for the following reasons. First, I believe God has given each of us one very special gift and several talents to be happy and successful in life, and He has guided me through when the job was tough and tiring. Second, there has never been a day when I was sorry that I chose this as my career. And finally, I have had wonderful support from my family and colleagues.”

Ms. Donnini will receive a stipend in recognition of the accomplishment.

Past recipients include:

2012—Upper School Mathematics Teacher, Stephen Belderes

2011—First Grade Teacher, Eileen Strulson

2010—Middle School History Teacher, Dave Calvert (retired)

2009—Middle School History Teacher, Heather Lawrence

2008—Upper School History Teacher, Richard Cook

2007—Upper School English Teacher, Gates DeHart (retired)

2006—First Grade Teacher, Betsy Cook

2005—Middle School Science Teacher, Sandy Patterson

2004—Early Childhood Teacher, Temple Glenn (retired)

2003—Upper School Science Teacher, Jerry Maycock (retired)

2002—Middle and Upper School Latin Teacher, Margaret Grayson (retired)

2001—Fifth Grade Teacher, Mary Lou Sallade (retired)

North Cross School is a college-preparatory, day school grounded in a strong liberal arts and science curriculum combined with exceptional co-curricular programs. The academic program, from junior kindergarten through twelfth grade, prepares students to become responsible, successful citizens by encouraging them to explore their interests and develop their talents. The School is located at 4254 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, VA, 24018.

Submitted by Whitney Campbell