For Stevens Point News

STEVENS POINT — Two teachers, Jeff Chandonais and Dorothy O’Connor, received the Mandana Bliss Award at the May 14, 2018, Stevens Point Area Public School District School Board Meeting.

Chandonais, a fourth-grade teacher at McDill Elementary School, was presented the award by a former student, Deliah Abundiz. She cited his commitment to always taking the time to make sure the class fully understood the material being taught and his ability to make learning fun as reasons she believed he deserved the award. She also thanked him for, “showing me the power of words” and reading.  Chandonais is in his fourth year teaching for the district.

McDill Elementary teacher, Jeff Chandonais, received the Mandana Bliss Award at the Stevens Point Area Public School District May Board Meeting. From left: Craig Gerlach, Deliah Abundiz, Jeff Chandonais. (Photo/Stevens Point Area Public School District)

Jefferson Elementary parent, Yomi Ogunnaike presented Dorothy O’Connor, a teacher, the award on behalf of her daughter. “She has made my child feel like a part of a community. [My daughter] has thrived, she keeps thriving and I can never find the words to thank Mrs. O’Connor,” said Ogunnaike.  O’Connor is in her seventeenth year with the district.

Each month students have the opportunity to recognize a staff member that has profoundly influenced their educational experience. The award is given in the name of Mandana Bliss, the first teacher in the Stevens Point Area Public School District.