Educator Spotlight: Shewalter and Street

LAURA SHEWALTER

Roosevelt Elementary educational interpreter Laura Shewalter, who assists students who are hearing impaired, is the embodiment of the Vision of a Lakewood Ranger global citizenship competency. As the co-founder of Roosevelt's American Sign Language Club, Laura strives to raise awareness among students about ASL and the Deaf culture. More than 40 students have already signed up for next semester!

Laura, whose interest in ASL began when she was young, changed careers from a social worker to educational interpreter to work with ASL full time. Laura says of the switch: “It allowed me to still connect with people, learn the language, and connect with the Deaf community.”

Laura’s nominator, Roosevelt Principal Allison Aber, is proud of the work Laura is doing:  “Laura’s dedication to building global citizens and fostering awareness of the Deaf community shines through her work every day.”

Another way Laura builds global awareness at Roosevelt is through her work with El Salvador communities in need. Through a service group she volunteers with, Laura collects items such as clothing and school supplies to bring to the El Salvadorians. It warms her heart to see the collection box at school fill with items that students and their families donate.

Principal Aber also notes that Laura’s collaboration and growth mindset skills are excellent as well: “Mrs. Shewalter works closely with staff to collaborate, teach, and develop new approaches that support both academic and social understanding.” 

Although Laura only works with a single student, her impact at Roosevelt is widely felt.

LIZ STREET

Roosevelt fourth-grade teacher Liz Street has always been a team player, from her childhood sports days to her time coaching basketball and volleyball for District middle school and high school teams. No wonder that when it comes to teaching, collaboration and teamwork are key for Liz.

Says Liz’s principal, Allison Aber: “Liz is a dependable and collaborative teammate who is always ready to help others and contribute to the school community.” Besides her teaching duties, Liz coaches the fifth-grade basketball team and also assists with the Walking Club and the school’s PBIS team.

Liz, who moved to Roosevelt after spending 14 years at Garfield Middle School, prioritizes connection with her students and their families through clear communication. She holds weekly class meetings where she shares her expectations for the week and the students share something about themselves. She and her fellow fourth-grade teacher, Chris Johnson, each select a student to be featured in a Student Spotlight weekly as well. The winners enjoy lunch with the teacher! Liz also makes a point to attend some of her students’ extracurricular activities.

“Ms. Street understands the unique needs of each child and consistently finds ways to help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally…she ensures every student feels valued and supported,” Principal Aber says. She also notes that Liz’s creativity and care make learning meaningful and exciting for every student. 

For example, during a CKLA unit on empires of the middle ages, each day Liz picked two students to be class “royalty” and brought them a cape and crown to wear. It’s that kind of creativity, and her dedication, compassion, and belief in her students that makes Liz a teacher who truly shines.