Cynthia Parkhill – Clear Lake Observer-American
LOWER LAKE ? Lower Lake High School art teacher Frank Turdici, who is retiring after 22 years in the Konocti school district, has been selected as the district”s “Teacher of the Year.”
What stands out about Konocti teachers, according to Angie Siegel, incumbent “Teacher of the Year,” is their love of students. Working in Konocti is a “trial by fire,” she said in a guest speaker”s address on Wednesday, May 24 during a district recognition program. “We have tremendous challenges but we have tremendous people who are stepping up to the challenges.”
Asked how he felt about being named “Teacher of the Year,” Turdici said it was quite an honor. “I love the recognition from my peers,” he said, but added that the honor of speaking at graduation means even more to him because it is an honor that comes from his students. The graduation ceremony takes place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 9 on Sadler Field.
“I”ll probably open a ceramic business out of my house,” Turdici said when asked about his plans for retirement. “I”m in the process of building a kiln.”
Although Turdici will no longer teach in the Konocti school district, he will continue as an instructor at Yuba Community College”s Clear Lake Campus. There, he will continue to have an effect on Lower Lake High School students. “Especially kids who are college prep; they take my evening courses,” Turdici said, explaining that the students don”t have time for high school art courses during the regular school day.
Turdici”s teaching schedule at the Clear Lake Campus will include drawing, print making and art appreciation for the fall.
Contact Cynthia Parkhill at cparkhill@clearlakeobserver.com.
