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The Got 2B Safe! Awards Program recognizes those teachers with the greatest commitment to teaching child safety. Since 2005, nearly 4,000 teachers from across the country have submitted essays and lesson plans on how they implement the Got 2B Safe! Four Rules of Safety into their classrooms. To date, 20 Grand Prize winners and nearly 400 first prize winners have been recognized. Grand prize winners receive full classroom makeovers, while other winners receive gift certificates for school supplies. Learn about their stories below.
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2009 Grand Prize Winners
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Danielle Kovach
Hopatcong, NJ
Danielle's classroom makeover was revealed to her students on August 27. Here's what the makeover means to Danielle and her students:
When I was younger, my parents always stressed the importance of saying “no” to strangers. As a parent and teacher, I realize that this tactic is no longer a child’s best defense. Through Honeywell’s Got2bSafe program, teachers and parents have the resources to teach children the necessary steps to protect themselves against child predators. As a teacher, I have the privilege to reach many children and to instill a positive influence in their lives.
The ultimate goal of my classroom makeover was to create an environment that is not only conducive to learning, but also a place where my students can feel safe and content. My goal was not only accomplished, but the results exceeded my expectations. New tables and chairs replaced the old worn-out desks. Computers were added, not only to give my students an edge on technology, but to also teach internet safety.
My favorite addition is the “VIP Lounge.” This special area was made just for my students where they can read, chat, play games or just relax. It also gives us a place to discuss the four rules of safety and work on our project, “Superheroes of Safety”. More information about the Superheroes of Safety can be found at www.kovachkids.com, and we’ll be sharing our project on the site throughout the year.
Here is Danielle's winning essay:
I am so thankful to Honeywell for my classroom makeover and for providing teachers and parents the resources needed to teach our children how to be safe.
When we think of our childhood superheroes, many names come to mind. However, it’s amazing to see how times have drastically changed! No longer are heroes leaping from tall buildings to save a damsel in distress. With violence and hostility surrounding us, children need to be taught how to protect themselves against the predatory villains that lurk around our world today.
“Superheroes of Safety” is designed to teach children the four rules of safety through fictional comic book heroes. For example, The Super Friends never go anywhere alone. Their power comes from being together. The larger the number of friends, the stronger their power! Dr. No can yell “NO” so loud, it can be heard throughout the world. His yell scares away unwelcome or uncomfortable actions made by others. Captain Check knows how important it is to check with parents and guardians before accepting anything from anyone they don't know. He leaves his “check” of approval wherever he goes. Chat-A-Girl, has the gift of gab! She knows how talk to a trusted adult when she feels scared. Always within reach: her trusty cell phone.
Students will produce comic books based on the lives of the Superheroes. The heroes will battle real-life situations, similar to what children may encounter in their own lives. Using their super-powers, each hero will defeat the enemy and live a safe and happy life! These comic books will be shared throughout the community during our “Comic Book Convention” to teach other children how to be safe!
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