2001 Connecticut Teacher of the Year
Ms. Rezendes teaches at the Alternative Center for Education in Danbury, Connecticut. She teaches English and Physical Education to grades nine through twelve students. Ms. Rezendes has been teaching for twenty-eight years.

What are your beliefs about teaching?
My beliefs about teaching are drawn from the Golden Rule, the Latin origin of the word "educate", Rousseau's ideas about "teaching by doing" and cooperative learning. I also believe that learning is more meaningful when students can connect it to their own lives.

How are your beliefs incorporated in your teaching style?
"I respect my students. I acknowledge their needs, strengths, progress and accomplishments. I include my students' input and I consider their learning styles and varying skill levels when I develop units."

What is your greatest teaching accomplishment?
"My greatest teaching accomplishments revolve around my students' accomplishments."

What's the most critical issue facing educators today and what do you think can be done to resolve this issue?
"The most critical issue for educators today is ensuring that no child is being left behind or feels isolated. Schools need to create environments that provide a sense of community. Every student must feel special and respected. Confidence in each student through high expectations must be illustrated. Educators must continually share the belief that to every problem there is a solution that can be solved through teamwork. Most importantly, communicate with an emphasis on the listening component."

Inspirational thought:
"Teaching is the profession that makes all other professions possible. Treat every student as though they are your own son or daughter."