Vivian Moreland, Italy High School English teacher, was honored at a surprise assembly Monday morning at the school as one of the Top 10 teachers in the State of Texas. In addition to the Italy Board of Trustees, High School faculty and students were in attendance to honor her. Her mother, Genova Johnson, her sister, Anita Snell and her daughter, Krystle Moreland surprised her by being present for the assembly.

“I am certain that this honor is well past due,” said Keland Lewis, an Italy High School graduate and attorney with the Menes Law Firm in Dallas. “In the 15-20 years of my education, Mrs. Moreland was one of my best teachers. She is the tops on all levels,” he added.

“Ms. Moreland is a great teacher and a great friend. She has the perfected ability to communicate and understand all of her students better than any teacher I know. She is definitely one of a kind. — Congratulations to Ms. Moreland and thanks so much for being such an influence.” ~ Megann Mae Lewis, Valedictorian, Class of 2007

In 1987, the University of Texas created an award for outstanding teachers which recognizes exemplary teachers from across the state. These educators are nominated because they are inspiringly supportive of their students, fellow teachers, administrators, parents and the community.

Out of several thousand nominees, only ten high school teachers are honored each year. Italy High School Principal, Tanya Parker, nominated Moreland for the award in October of this year.

“Our motto this year has been ‘tradition restored’,” said Parker. That tradition we are restoring is one of excellence in everything we do – academics, athletics, extracurricular events and teaching. Today we are here to honor excellence in the teaching profession by recognizing Mrs. Vivian Moreland. We are so very proud of you. I am honored to work beside you every day. I cannot think of a finer representative of Italy High School. You make a difference every day to everyone you touch. We love you and are proud of you. Thank you for your part in tradition restored.”

Mrs. Moreland will represent Italy ISD and the Italy community at the Conference for Excellence in Education in February, 2010 as well as a special awards dinner where leaders in education from across the nation will recognize her. She will also receive a limited edition specially commissioned custom designed bronze sculpture and a $2,250 check.

Moreland began her career at Italy ISD in 1973. When most teachers are looking forward to retirement, Moreland has a different outlook.

“I usually am not at a loss for words, but today I am so choked up. I never expected anything like this. I know that my last day of teaching will be one of the saddest days of my life. I love you all so much,” Moreland said tearfully.

Moreland taught Andi Windham, an IHS graduate and Italy High School teacher. “Mrs. Moreland was one of the most wonderful teachers I had. I knew she sincerely cared about me. I never dreaded going to her class. I am so thankful she also taught my two daughters as well,” Windham said.

Tina Richards, one of Moreland’s students graduated from Italy High School. After graduation from college, she returned to teach at Italy High School to teach English. She considered it an honor to speak at the assembly.

“When my sister asked me to speak about Mrs. Moreland, I thought about how she has influenced not only my life but the lives of the many other students that have attended Italy High School.”

“Mrs. Moreland was my freshman English teacher. I thought it was going to be a hard class – wordly wise tests every week, Romeo and Juliet, analogy worksheets – and her infamous semester exams. I prayed that I would just pull off a passing grade. As the years passed and I continued to have Ms. Moreland as my teacher, I learned how much she cared about my grades and how much she cared about me.”

“Mrs. Moreland, the mother of two successful children, an English teacher for 36 years at Italy High School, and an inspiration to all. She loves butterflies, the color purple, writing poems, going to church and spending time with her grandson. Mrs. Moreland is a lady I admire and adore.”

“As many students today can attest to, if you have a problem, whether it be academic or personal, she is one teacher you can count on. Growing up in a small town, there are so many trials and tribulations young people can encounter. Ms. Moreland always has a kind word of wisdom to help one through. I have seen many students turn to her and she has never turned her back.”

“As a teacher, she is my mentor. While I was in college, I had not decided what I wanted to teach, juggling History and English. Through her encouragement, I decided I wanted to be just like her. She opened her door to me as I did my observations for college. I noticed her patience and diligence to make sure every student left her room with knowledge. To this day, I base my teaching style on hers.”

“If you would have told me 17 years ago that Ms. Moreland would be one of my best friends today, I would have never believed you. I have turned to her for advice about TAKS testing, coaching and even being a mother. She has always kept me sane. Last year on a Student Council trip, she showed me how spontaneous she is by jumping into the pool with her clothes on. She called Coach Coker and I ‘chickens’. We have laughed together and cried together. I know she will always be there for me, my daughters and the many students in our school.”

“I am very proud to stand before you today and speak about my best friend, co-worker and one of Italy High School’s finest teachers. I don’t know of anyone that is more deserving of this award. Congratulations, Ms. Moreland, you are the foundation of our traditions and knowledge here at Italy High School.”