November 6, 2007

Westminster teacher named one of state's best educators

The Orange County Register

WESTMINSTER ? Johnson Middle School history teacher Gregory McFall was named today as one of five California Teachers of the Year.

McFall, a 10-year veteran at Johnson, was chosen as one of five Orange County Teachers of the Year in May.

"Mr. McFall truly believes in his students and in their ability to succeed," said state Superintendent Jack O'Connell in a written statement. "Mr. McFall is committed to finding what works for his students with limited social and cultural experiences and building upon their accomplishments, one success at a time."

The other four state Teachers of the Year are: Andee Aceves, a third-grade teacher at San Altos Elementary School in Lemon Grove; Lewis Chappelear, an engineering design teacher at James Monroe High School in North Hills; Michael Allen Long, a fourth-grade teacher at Carmela Elementary in Whittier; and Tamara Reina, an English teacher at East Mesa School in San Diego.

Chappelear was chosen to represent the state in the national Teacher of the Year competition.

McFall earned a bachelor's degree at California State University, Fullerton, in 1990 and a master's at Concordia University in 2007. He received a teaching credential from National University in 1997 and was recognized by the state as a Highly Qualified Teacher.

The competition is open to educators who teach pre-kindergarten through grade 12. A state selection committee reviews the candidates' applications and conducts site visits to evaluate the teachers' rapport with students, classroom environment, presentation skills and use of teaching methods, among other criteria.