SALEM — Salem High School science teacher Bonnie Saulnier spends her days teaching chemistry and earth science, but she also dedicates much of her time outside the classroom to making things better in the classroom.
Yesterday, Saulnier was acknowledged as the Mainstream Teacher of the Year by the Northern New England Teachers of English to Students of Other Languages for her work setting standards and frameworks for ESOL students.
Saulnier, who has worked with the state developing standards for general student education for the last three years, volunteered to be the science teaching education representative for the Northern New England TESOL in May.
"It was a nice experience for me to work with the state to develop these frameworks," Saulnier said.
The Mainstream Teacher of the Year award is given annually to a non-ESOL teacher who has made strides to improve learning for ESOL students.
While she is being recognized for her work outside the classroom, Saulnier's students and colleagues also praised what she does in it.
"Chemistry is a hard subject," said Cory Chappell, a Salem High junior. "But she goes into depth explaining it. She's fun, but she's also serious about it."
Math and science director Deborah Payne credited Saulnier for being a role model for both teachers and students.
"She puts her heart and soul into teaching," Payne said. "She has a great rapport with students and really challenges them."
Her students credited Saulnier for her easygoing style and willingness to help them improve.
"She always gives us a chance to improve and everyone likes her because she's so laid back," junior Keri Longacre said.
Saulnier was honored with the award during the Northern New England TESOL fall conference at Southern New Hampshire University yesterday.
