Three TASD teachers awarded Exemplary Educator Awards

By Bethany Harker

On August 25, 2011, Mr. Bouslough, Mrs. Bilotto, and Mrs. Yoder all received the “Exemplary Educator Award” presented by Dr. Miller, TASD superintendent and chosen by TAHS graduating seniors from the class of 2011 chose the teachers that most impacted their lives. Each winner was presented with a plaque and a check for a $1000 from an anonymous donor.

Bouslough has been teaching for 22 years and has taught a variety of grades, ranging from third to sixth grade. He was humbled and honored that he was chosen because he feels that he works with other great teachers. His father had the biggest influence on him for choosing the teacher career because he was an Administrator.

“I saw firsthand what teaching was all about. He never pushed me to be a teacher but when I did, he helped me tremendously,” Bouslough stated.

Bouslough said since he was given the award that he knows he is doing a good job and that students are grateful for his teaching.

His advice for his fellow teachers, “No matter how tired you are or how frustrated we get-that we do make a difference to our students, more that we will ever know,” Bouslough stated.

His advice for students, “You have some of the best teachers in the country here at Tyrone. Take advantage of the opportunities that you are given here. Do your best, and work hard,” Bouslough said.

Bilotto has been teaching for the past 19 years. She has homeschooled her twin boys and taught preschool and first grade. She is honored to be recognized because she works with such marvelous teachers. Bilotto has always been interested in teaching as long as she can remember.

“When I was in third grade, I had a classroom in the basement of our house where I taught all of the kids in the neighborhood,” Bilotto said.

The award has provided an increase of energy because she feels there are times where she has been exhausted from giving all of herself to teaching and it strives her every day that she is making a difference in the children’s lives she teaches.
“…continue to strive to give it my all each and every day and to know that I am making a difference in the lives of the children that I teach,” Bilotto stated.