2001 Maine Teacher of the Year
Ms Hendrickson is a grade seven teacher at Skyway Middle School in Presque Isle, Maine. She has been teaching for twenty-seven years and teaches English and Language Arts.

What are your beliefs about teaching?
"I believe that students should be actively involved in their own learning. My job is to facilitate their learning by giving them the tools they need to be successful. I also want my students to become effective communicators."

How are your beliefs incorporated in your teaching style?
"The units I design involve my students in individual or small group activities. Rather than lecturing, I give them activities to complete that will lead to their own learning. My students are given an opportunity to read, write, listen and speak. At the beginning of the year, students create a booklet about themselves that involves art and writing. This is a favorite activity because they love to share about themselves!"

What is your greatest teaching accomplishment?
"I was instrumental in creating a writers' conference for students in Grades 4–8 in our county. Students get to attend this all-day conference based upon a piece of writing they do which is published in a book. At the Institute, they have an opportunity to listen to an author, such as Caroline Cooney, James Lincoln Collier and Jose Araego. They also attend two workshop sessions designed to have them write more. Parents and teachers are also invited."

What's the most critical issue facing educators today and what do you think can be done to resolve this issue?
"I believe one of the critical factors facing educators today is student apathy. I feel that as educators, we must create a supportive, caring environment for these students. A variety of activities must be provided that involves the students in hands-on learning. Parents must also be more involved in their children's education. Schools need to provide activities that both students and parents can participate in together."

Inspirational thought
"The rewards from teaching are great – a smile, a hug, a thank you, a look of accomplishment, the knowledge that you have touched a life."