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

DATE: MONDAY, February 20, 1995                   TAG: 9502220016
SECTION: NEWSFUN                    PAGE: NF-3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

TEACHER OF THE WEEK

When Maria Catron's pupils leave her class at the end of the school year, one thing's for sure: Most of them will feel comfortable standing before a group and sharing their ideas.

Catron encourages her Salem second-graders to make class presentations while she videotapes them. "It's a motivating factor," Catron says. "They love being able to show off their knowledge."

Having her pupils work together in groups also is important to Catron. She likes to present the groups with a problem and looks for a group solution.

"They share their ideas with each other, and bounce ideas around. It teaches them how to work with others," she said.

Catron discovered her interest in teaching when she taught Sunday School. A former purchasing agent, she left the business world after 20 years and entered the education field. Catron said she has not regretted the career switch, Catron said.

Catron, who is married, enjoys reading and ethnic cooking. She hopes to publish a children's book.

by CNB