From left to right: Robert Ray (former governor, State of Iowa), Barbara Brondyke
and Debby Dearden (1997 president, IAHPERD)
1997 IAHPERD School Health Educator of the Year
Barbara Brondyke was graduated from Central College in 1978 and commenced her career the same year when she was hired to teach physical education and health education for the Clinton Community Schools. Other responsibilities through the years have included teaching general science and biology and coaching volleyball and tennis. Barb is an innovative teacher. Examples include her involvement of students in the creation of health magazine and the delivery of a health fair in the high school that includes demonstrations, a food show and breakout and keynote speakers.
She is also a significant contributor to her school and community outside the classroom. She has served as the Chairperson for the Clinton High School Health Fair, the High School Parent-Teacher Conferences, and for 15 years, the High School Community Appreciation Breakfast. She has served as a member of the Human Growth and Development Committee, the High School Improvement Team, the Teen Health Centers Health Advisory Committee, and the District Policy Revision Committee for Discipline. She was also a member of a grant writing team which prepared a successful proposal for expansion of teen health centers and family resource centers. That grant was for $200,000.
These facts give us a hint of the person who has been selected as this yearUs School Health Educator of the Year, Perhaps a better way to learn about her is through her own words and the words of her students. Barb feels a tremendous responsibility to the people with whom she comes in contact, as is evidenced by the following words. RI was not put on earth to change people, but to live in harmony and peace. If by their observations of my actions they grow stronger, we both prosper. But if they grow weaker, it is my fault.S Nearly a quarter of a century has passed since Barb wrote those words during her years as a high school student. She is still guided by that verse today, a fact that is demonstrated by the following words written by her students just this past week.
Mrs. Brondyke not only tries to be the best teacher she can be but she also tries to be the best friend she can be. She has obviously achieved both.S (Danish, age 17)
Mrs. Brondyke does not consider teacher a job but a lifestyle. Her constant dedication is to her students, making their goals her number one priority. (Bethany, age 17)
Mrs. Brondyke is a nice teacher, who will adapt to a personUs needs. Mrs. B is a great teacher. I was permitted to use a tape recorder to take notes and leave class five minutes early so that I wouldn't get trampled on in the halls. Mrs. B gave me two textbooks. One for home and one for school. (a 15-year-old disabled student)
Mrs. Brondyke is an inspiration and a mentor and always has the time to listen. . . she is a role model for a teacher and a friend, constantly working with you to become the best you can be. (Candy, Age 15)