Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, January 30, 1995                   TAG: 9502010018
SECTION: NEWSFUN                    PAGE: 3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

TEACHER OF THE WEEK

Sixth grade

William Byrd Middle School

For many pupils, the transition from elementary to middle school is not always easy. Feelings often surface of being overwhelmed and intimidated. Amy Shank, language arts and math teacher at William Byrd Middle School in Vinton, does her best to make sure those feelings fade fast.

As a member of Byrd's Teacher Advisory Program, Shank helps entering sixth-graders adjust to a new school and schedule, and tries to get to know each of her advisees personally.

"So much is new to them," she said. "They're in a brand-new building, with lockers and more teachers, and they're meeting new people. I love seeing them adjust and become independent."

"Not only is Ms. Shank an extraordinary teacher, but a good friend to all her students. She isn't just there for us when we need her excellent teaching skills, but also when we need good advice," said the pupil who nominated her.

One of the projects Shank is most proud of in her 15-year teaching career is her pupils' participation in a national math-a-thon, which raises money for St. Jude's Children's Hospital. The pupils gather pledges based on the number of math problems they complete. Shank, the project's coordinator, said Byrd raised $1,800 this year. "It's a worthwhile project, gives the kids extra credit in math and it's fun," she said.

Shank, mother to 8-year-old Allison, loves sports - especially volleyball and softball - and playing the clarinet.

. A former high school drum major, she plays the clarinet and enjoys all kinds of music.