2001 Washington Teacher of the Year
Ms. Henderson teaches students in grades five and six at Glenridge Elementary in Renton, Washington. She has twenty-five years of teaching experience and is currently teaching Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Art and Technology.

What are your beliefs about teaching?
"'The greenhorn is the ultimate victor.' Teachers must be learners and flexible enough to bring the best program to their students in an ever-changing world."

How are your beliefs incorporated in your teaching style?
"I set up a rich learning environment, motivate by getting to know each child on a personal level and then set high expectations for each student."

What is your greatest teaching accomplishment?
"My greatest accomplishment is having students grow up and choose to come back to student teach with me. What an honor and what fun!"

What's the most critical issue facing educators today and what do you think can be done to resolve this issue?
"The most critical issues facing educators today is finding a balance between preparing students to meet the high standards on today's tests while maintaining the enjoyment of learning wrapped in the arts. This issue can be resolved by creating solid lessons that teach the rich curriculum material by incorporating problem-solving and writing tasks that use creative fun and the arts."

Inspirational thought:
"Associate with other engaged, enthusiastic, inspirational and effective teachers.