Grassland Elementary School fourth grade teacher Marian B. Oonk has been named one of the Tennessee Outstanding Social Studies Teachers of the Year for 2007.  The Tennessee Council of the Social Studies honored her with a luncheon and recognition at their annual conference March 9 in Memphis. 

"Receiving the award was both an exciting and humbling experience," says Oonk.  "It was wonderful to be recognized for the work I have tried to do to promote social studies education in the schools."

"It's an honor for Grassland Elementary and Williamson County Schools," says Grassland Elementary School Principal Dr. Ann Gordon.  "Ms. Oonk travels extensively and is able to share her experiences with her students.  She centers projects and programs relevant to the curriculum resulting in engaging and meaningful learning."

"We must learn from history and not repeat its mistakes," says Oonk.  "It is important for children to know how fortunate we are to be living in Tennessee and the United States.  We have a constitution that still works after 231 years.  It is our duty as Americans to carry on the spirit of our founding fathers through teaching a love of learning about our country."

Congratulations to Ms. Oonk on this wonderful achievement!