Christine D. Easterling, a past president of the District of Columbia Retired Teachers Association (DCRTA), has been honored for her volunteer work with youth at Raymond Elementary School in Northwest.
Easterling was recommended for the honor by DCRTA awards chairperson, Sandra Jenkins, who noted that her mentoring had resulted in students writing their own articles in the book, "Inspirational Treasures: Essays by Educators and Students reflecting the Joys of Teaching." The book, which was spearheaded by Easterling and published earlier this year, is a whimsical and thought-provoking compilation of experiences on the joys of learning and teaching.
"Thirty one youth wrote articles for the book," said Easterling. "They became instant young authors who were proud to see their names and articles in print. This experience might have inspired them to write their own books one day."
Nominations are currently open for the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) "With Our Youth!" awards which celebrate the accomplishments of volunteers working with children and youth.
The "With Our Youth!" program was formed in response to the 1997 Presidents' Summit for America's Future, at which the NRTA network originally made a three-year pledge to provide 45 million volunteer service hours with 1.5 million youth in 2,000 communities. The goal was met and exceeded, and the program continues to grow and flourish.
For more information about nominations and the program, please visit: http://msg4svc.net/culvi/476761/48/1205/81/0/S/0/0/dfhy.html
