As we turn the page on the calendar into a new year, we’re delighted to recognize a 91-year young volunteer as this week’s #TeacherTuesday. While it’s decades since she taught math and science to high school students in the early part of her career before becoming involved in the computer industry in its early days, BJ Anella hasn’t forgotten her roots. She has been volunteering for the past 11 years in a Rolling Hills Elementary fourth grade classroom in the Council Rock School District.
Placed through Senior Adults for Greater Education (SAGE), BJ works with students one-on-one to provide math support to students who may need additional help. She has also facilitated a Knitting Club for fifth and sixth grade students and is currently in the process of implementing a Pen Pal letter exchange between the fourth graders and Attleboro Retirement community. BJ is an advocate for public education and says, “I am having a ball!”
Teacher Kathy Hornberger says, “I have been fortunate to work with BJ for the past 11 years. She is far more than a SAGE volunteer; she is a mentor and a friend.” And she adds, “I am both fortunate and grateful to have BJ in my classroom.”
Tell us who else is making a difference in large and small ways and we’ll feature them in a future #TeacherTuesday profile.