ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Monday, May 6, 1996 TAG: 9605070083
SECTION: NEWSFUN PAGE: NF-3 EDITION: METRO
To Virginia West, teaching children about honesty and the environment is just as important as teaching them how to construct a sentence or how to master a math problem.
"Teaching is not just giving computer skills, but giving life skills," West said. "Children need to know that they have to go to work and that they have to go on time and that they have to be responsible."
West, a teacher of learning-disabled children, is part of a committee that is responsible for coming up with a "theme of the week" at Huff Lane MicroVillage in Roanoke.
"Last week the theme was compassion. We've had ecology and integrity," she said. "We encourage each teacher to discuss the theme every day, even if it's for five minutes."
West, a 27-year educator, said she enjoys teaching learning-disabled pupils and "rejoicing in their success."
"Preparation is very important, especially for L.D. kids, because you have to individualize for them," she said. "The key is to present challenging opportunities in a way that allows for individual success."
"I believe Ms. West is a very special teacher," said her nominator. "She has committed her life to the job of teaching children."
West is active in her church and enjoys teaching, traveling and spending time with her niece.
LENGTH: Short : 35 lines ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO: Virginia West\Learning disabled class, Huff Laneby CNBMicroVillage