Tri-County News

diversiCOM names Laurie Garcia their Teacher of the Year


Sauk Centre Supt. Dan Brooks had concluded a portion of a workshop day, April 2, when he announced that personnel from diversiCOM were special guests. Dave Del Zoppo, diversiCOM CEO was in attendance to announce that EBD Special Education teacher Laurie Garcia had been chosen as diversiCOM’s 2009 Teacher of the Year. Several years ago diversiCOM extended their long standing scholarship program to include a Teacher of the Year. This award is presented to a teacher employed by a school within the diversiCOM service area. The winning teacher receives a trophy that recognizes their commitment to excellence in education, and a $2,000 cash prize. This year the program was extended again to include the winning school. Supt. Brooks was presented a check for $1,000 to be used for technology purposes. diversiCOM seeks nominations through a variety of media ways. Nominee information is reviewed by a Selection Committee that changes yearly and generally consists of various school administrators and customers. The nominees are scored on criteria such as individual teaching style, creativity in encouraging student achievement, consistent support of students’ growth, and community involvement. The 2009 diversiCOM Teacher of the Year winner, Laurie Garcia, is described as someone who brings humor, a positive attitude and enthusiasm to make sure that each student who crosses her path does their very best. She strives to find the success that is within each child. This involves taking the time to talk one-on-one to share their struggles and celebrate their achievements. Like many teachers, the gratification comes in the ‘Thank You’ received from students and more importantly from past students. Three companies compose diversiCOM and their roots run deep in central Minnesota. Melrose Telephone Company has been in existence for 85 years. Mainstreet Communications, LLC has served the city of Sauk Centre since 1998 and Wisper High Speed Internet began in 2006. diversiCOM believes that strong communities depend on active residents and businesses and we are willing to do our part to make a difference in the communities that it serves. They have long been a strong supporter of educational opportunities, donating to multiple school projects, presenting scholarships to college-bound high school seniors or any of the other educational programs. diversiCOM is a full-service telecommunications company providing local and long distance telephone service, cable television, high-speed Internet access, and more.

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