WEF was excited and honored to present the 2024 Elizabeth W. Stokes Founder’s Award to WIS 3rd grade teacher Janis Larrabee. In the words of the parent who nominated her:
“The impact she has made on the life of my son and the other children participating in the 3rd grade Rubik’s Cube club at WIS before school is immeasurable. She has gone above and beyond, giving up personal time to come to school early each week. I’ve watched my son come completely out of his shell. He is excited, appreciative, and engaged at school now. He is learning leadership skills and how to be proactive and assertive in ways that will benefit him for the rest of his life. Janis is teaching Otto the power of sharing what you know and bringing people with a common interest together. For a 9-year-old to share his methods of learning, tips and tricks, and to see the importance of being collaborative over competitive is invaluable. The impact Janis has made in the life of my child, is enormous and I will forever be thankful. I know Otto will be too.”
WEF received many heartfelt and worthy recommendations in 2024, and we congratulate all of the teachers whose dedication and talents inspired them.