Three teachers 'extraordinaire' retire from Menlo Park schools Three teachers 'extraordinaire' retire from Menlo Park schools (August 03, 2005)

By Marjorie Mader

Almanac Staff Writer

Menlo Park teachers Paula Chidichimo, Karen Ehman and Lezlie Jacobson won't be going back to school August 25 as they have for almost four decades.

The three -- commended for "extraordinary service" to the district by the school board -- have retired after teaching thousands of students during their combined 115 years in the Menlo Park City School district.

Their colleagues, students and families recently expressed appreciation for their contributions as they ended their final school year and embarked on new chapters in their lives.
Paula Chidichimo

Senora Chidichimo, a teacher of Spanish and Spanish culture at Hillview School for 38 years, plans to be taking a boat trip in France about the time school opens.

She has shared her love of the Spanish language and culture with her students in the classroom and by organizing trips to Spain.

"Paula's influence has been felt far beyond the classroom," said the school board members. She's been a staunch supporter of the Hilllvieiw School Site Council, the cooking club, talent show, and student trips to Washington, D.C., among numerous other activities.
Karen Ehman

Mrs. Ehman did her "student teaching" at Oak Knoll and Laurel schools, and returned to the district to teach at Encinal School after receiving her credential.

For 40 years, she's been a mainstay of the Encinal teaching staff and an inspiration and role model for her colleagues.

Over the years, she also has written many Jeanie Ritchie grant proposals to bring innovative programs into the classroom.

Trustees, by resolution, proclaimed her an "Educator Extraordinaire" and a genuine "Community Treasure," honoring her dedication to teaching and "profound devotion" to nurturing the minds and spirits of her students.
Lezlie Jacobson

Colleagues of Lezlie Jacobson at Laurel School wrote this poem for her:

You're a teacher's teacher!

A mentor and more!

An exemplary professional!

All we should strive for!

You have raised up the bar!

Turned out the best!

Now it's time to reflect,

And take a rest!

Ms. Jacobson's special contribution during her 37-year career in the district was helping students who struggled with reading become successful through using the Slingerland multi-sensory method. She was hired by Hillview Principal Walt Key and worked with colleague Nick Colasanti in introducing this approach to teaching language skills in the classroom.

She is known for her passion, and the extra time and attention she's invested in students.

She has taught kindergarten through fourth grade and worked at Hillview, Oak Knoll and Laurel, where's she's championed such courses as Early California Mission and the "Stone Soup" literature unit.
E-mail Marjorie Mader at mmader@AlmanacNews.com

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