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Opinion

Barnhart: Mrs. Cieniawski was my favorite teacher

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My name is Katie Barnhart and I am writing to provide personal insight into why Julie Cieniawski is the ideal candidate for Scottsdale Unified Schools Governing Board.

Mrs. Cieniawski was my social studies teacher for three years. Not only do I remember her fondly for her compassion for students and passion for teaching, but my respect for her has only grown as we have kept in contact over the years and I have learned of her extensive commitments to the community.

Julie is an exceptional teacher. Well deserving of recognition for her years of outstanding dedication, she was awarded both the Scottsdale Foundation Quest for Excellence Award in recognition of Excellence in Civic Leadership and the Charros Teacher Award.

You can read of her extensive experience in multiple subject areas on her website, but I can provide my personal experience as her student.

Julie was my favorite teacher because she cared about the success of every single student; she helped me envision my goals for my life as well as challenging me with curriculum that was relevant to the real world. From her class, I found my passion for improving the world, a value I still pursue every day.

In fact, Mrs. Cieniawski inspired me to become a teacher myself. I am currently studying music education and I continue to refer to Julie as a role model for the truly passionate and involved teacher I want to become.

I am most impressed by her tirelessness. She is not only a hard worker, but a perseverant worker. Even after years in service as a teacher, Julie continues to serve her community with activism, advocacy, and volunteering.

Without a doubt, Julie Cieniawski is the best candidate for this position and will work non-stop for Better Schools Now, advocating for all students and families.

Vote Julie Cieniawski for SUSD Governing Board!

Editor’s Note: Katie Barnhart is a former Scottsdale Unified School District student, and future educator.