Brigitte Tennis
Stella Schola Middle School @ Rose Hill Junior High
Redmond, WA 98052

"Carpe Diem is my motto, so that is how I teach. Every moment is utilized; every opportunity to make a connection is grasped! When students see the relevance of what they are learning and that their newly-gained knowledge helps them understand and successfully live in their world today, both student interest in the subject matter and the retention of it, is increased. For example, students become excited when, as we study Ancient Rome, the language of Latin is taught. When Latin is connected with history and then that connection is extended into science, math and the English language itself, the language comes alive and they begin to recognize the roots of Latin in thousands of words which they see every day!"

"Although my sons are very different, especially in their learning styles, each of them has responded enthusiastically to Brigitte's inspired and creative teaching. She provides truly unique and engaging learning opportunities which include Roman bridge building, building medieval castles with tiny bricks, an overnight stargazing activity, and even fencing lessons! I am personally grateful that both of my sons had the opportunity to experience learning in this fashion thanks to this creative and dynamic teacher."

Brigitte is the founder and head teacher of Stella Schola, a small choice-option Middle School in Redmond, Washington. The school is based on the principle that all students can learn, and that during the often-tumultuous middle school years, students need stability and structure while retaining their wonder of learning. The curriculum is unique because it flows over three years, centering around chronologically based historical themes spanning from Pangaea and Early Man in the 6th grade all the way through to World War II in the 8th grade. The curriculum is supported with classic literature and hands-on projects, and subjects are integrated as much as possible. Brigitte feels that it is essential that teachers themselves demonstrate an excitement of learning and a healthy work ethic. In her classroom, students know that learning is hard work, but that it is also enjoyable. There is a balance of seriousness & humor, paper and pencil work & hands-on projects, repetition & novelty, individual reflection & social interaction, and teacher directed lessons coupled with freedom for students to choose their own learning paths.

Other Highlights:

• Jefferson Award Nominee at the Regional Level for Public Service ("to create a Nobel Prize for Public Service in America and to reinforce volunteerism in our local neighborhoods. The idea that each individual can make a difference - "Unsung Heroes" - and "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" represent the backbone of our democracy"), 2004
• National Latin Honor Society Membership 2003, 2004
• Developed units and lessons integrating with year-long historical themes for 6th grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade, 1998-present (new lessons ideas are emerging all the time, so this job is never finished!)
• Head Teacher at Stella Schola Middle School, 2000-present
• Initiated Stella Schola Chess Club, 2001
• Initiated school-wide mentoring program for 6th & 8th graders at Stella Schola, 2003
• Outstanding Educator Award for dedication and service to children, given by Rose Hill Junior High PTA, 2002
• Lawrence Hall of Science-Foss District Science Trainer for 6th Grade Teachers, 1992
• Included in Who's Who of American Teachers, 1998, 2002, 2003
• Designed and orchestrated creation of a landscaped courtyard for local junior high school, 2003
• Participated actively in Seafair, an annual Seattle celebration of the city's founding and diverse cultures as Miss Seattle Seafair, Queen of the Seas, 1980 - 1981, served as a judge for the scholarship event two subsequent years
• Musician (violin) for retirement homes in the greater Seattle area
• Initiated of Spring Fling for Moms, 2002 - present
• Volunteer instructor at Bonny Lake Swiss Camp (12 to 15 year-olds)for the education and enrichment of Swiss culture and language, 2000 - 2002
• Coordinator of school-wide pen-pal support of a United States marine squad in stationed in Fallujah, Iraq (2nd MP Battalion, 1st Platoon), 2004
• Outside Interests: playing the violin, reading, snow skiing, gardening, spending time at her cabin in Birch Bay, Washington; married and has two boys, ages 13 and 15