Usually, the Talon Teacher of the Year award is given to one outstanding teacher. However, this year, the overwhelming responses for French teacher Judy Lenviel and Latin teacher Jo Beth Pless caused the committee to declare them co-teachers of the year.

Lenviel has been teaching for 24 years, 17 of which have been spent in the Washington County School system.

Outside of the classroom, she sponsors the French club. She and Pless are AHS’s Gifted and Talented coordinators, helping students apply to state governor’s schools and organizing the mentorship programs in March.

“She is always willing to help her students,” said senior Claudia K. on her nomination form. “She even goes as far as to meet her students to speak and practice French at places like Java J’s. She truly goes beyond her classroom duties.”

Lenviel makes her classroom environment educational and interesting.

“She includes every student and allows them to lead discussion with her guidance,” said senior Elissa M. “She definitely has authority and control over her class, but doesn’t hold it over us. Everyone respects her because they want to.”

Pless has been teaching in Washington County schools for 33 years. She also sponsors the Latin club.

“She always encourages me in my academics and athletics,” said junior Nicole V. “I have stayed after school numerous times to talk to her about school, sports, or just anything.”

Junior Lawrence R. said her teaching style is “in-depth and slow-paced, so everyone can catch on. She’s just an outstanding teacher.”

A quality that both Lenviel and Pless share is their concern for their students’ futures. Elissa said, “Mrs. Lenviel helps us all fill out applications and is more than happy to write a recommendation for college. She never allows us to settle for anything less than the best.”

Junior Cha Cha A. said, “Mrs. Pless prepares us for the future by her style of teaching and her great advice.”

Junior Clay M., who is a student of both Pless and Lenviel said, “Mrs. Lenviel has got to be one of the best teachers that I have had the privilege to work with, and I don’t know a single person who hasn’t liked Mrs. Pless after having her in class.”

There were 21 teachers nominated from 51 forms. This was the sixth annual award given by the Talon.