By DEBBIE SCARBROUGH / Guest Columnist

Ginger Aaron, this year’s Elementary School Physical Education teacher of the year, has been a physical education teacher for the past 10 years at Valley Elementary School in Pelham.

During her tenure at Valley, Ginger has been instrumental in helping to develop and create a developmentally appropriate and sequential in nature program that helps children develop to their fullest potential.

The program is based upon growth of physical activity and health, motor skills development, cognitive development and social development. Ginger’s emphasis is on the total child and helping students find success in every area possible.

Ginger works hard to hold herself accountable by remaining updated on current research and professionally involved to better her teaching skills.

In addition to continued improvement and professional excellence, Ginger has successfully bridged the gap between school and community by helping create various events such as Dr. Seuss Stations/Read Across America Week, Project ACES and the Kids Mercedes Marathon.

One very special event that was fostered by a former student diagnosed with arthritis is the annual Trick or Treat Trot, which raises money for the Arthritis Foundation.

As principal of Valley Elementary School, this is my third year of working with Ginger Aaron.

Ginger works diligently to know all children who attend Valley Elementary and strives to meet any needs that they have. She works very hard to contribute all she can to make Valley Elementary School be a happy, safe, nurturing environment for all students.

Ginger goes the extra mile on a daily basis as she responds to needs of the school that are not in her job description.

She is often the very first to step up and offer to do any extra duties that need to be covered when a faculty or staff member is unable to cover their responsibilities. She is very aware of school operations and insists that routines be followed for the well-being of all involved.

It is my honor to work with Ms. Ginger Aaron. She is deserving of this recognition.

Dr. Debbie Scarbrough is the principal at Valley Elementary School.