Our new print issue will feature “Goodbye Summer, Hello School!” content about the end of the summer season and gearing up for back to school in our communities.
For that reason, we’ve decided to put a strong focus on our Community Spotlight category of “Education.” Schools are truly the backbone of so many communities. So without further ado, let’s shine a light on our teachers, administrators, support staff and parent volunteers who selflessly dedicate themselves to our kids!
Ms. Olszewski was nominated by Bunker Hill Middle School Principal Allison Egizi.
“Bunker Hill is honored to share Ms. Olszewski’s story about continuing her love of education through the summer months. Ms. Olzsewski is a 6/7 grade social studies teacher and she spent a month in Bali teaching English to 4th grade students in a village called Tampaksiring . Her experiences like this enhance the content that she teaches. Their native language is Indonesian and Bahasa (Balinese local language). We are so proud of Ms. Olzsewski and grateful she is a part of the Bulldog community!”
This is what Ms. Olzsewski had to say about her amazing experience: “Over the past month, I traveled to Bali, Indonesia to volunteer at a local school in a village called Tampaksiring. This was nothing short of transformative. I had the opportunity to teach English to a fourth grade class, and while I’m a teacher back at home, stepping into a classroom here came with its own unique set of challenges, especially navigating the language barrier. There were moments of frustration, and of course trying to connect, explain, and understand without always having the words. Although these moments were quickly outweighed by the joy, laughter, and small breakthroughs that made it all worthwhile. I formed bonds with students whose energy and love for learning reminded me of why I love teaching. I also met so many people along the way who became lifelong friends. Each bringing their own stories, cultures, and perspectives. This turned every conversation into a learning experience and every connection into something meaningful. Bali gave me more than I could have ever expected. I came to teach, but in so many ways, I was the one who learned. I will forever be grateful for this experience.”
Community Spotlights
If you know someone you think we should shine our Community Spotlight on, email us at [email protected].
Right now we’re focusing on our South Jersey Educators category, which we’ll continue to run now and through the beginning of fall. So if you know someone who deserves a special shout-out, get in touch!
We’re also always looking for nominees in the following categories:
First Responders: Police, Fire, EMT, Dispatch, Active Military
Food Service Industry Workers: Waitstaff, Bussers, Servers, Chefs, Cooks, Dishwashers
Volunteers: Nonprofit Workers, Youth Sports Coaches, Scout Leaders, PTO Volunteers
Public Servants: Elected Officials and Support Staff at every Government Agency serving South Jersey at the Municipal, County, State and Federal levels
Healthcare Workers: Nurses, Medical Assistants, Administrative Support Staff
Beverage Service Industry Workers: Anyone who works in a Bar, Coffee Shop, Brewery, Winery or Distillery