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20 - The Oakville Beaver, Friday July 4, 2008 www.oakvillebeaver.com Oakville teacher among 25 finalists for history award Continued from page 18 they wanted. And they got back to me said it looks good, you didn't make the cut. But we liked what we saw would you be interested in doing this again." Rychel said yes, created a more thorough package and re-wrote some of its sections. He made the final 25 last year, but was not selected as one of the six award recipients. Nonetheless, the people at the society were still enthusiastic about his work, and asked him to apply once again. Rychel is part of the 25 finalists for the award again this year. In August, he will find out if he is selected as one of six history teachers who will be awarded with $2, 500, in addition to $1, 000 for their school, a medal and trip for two to the award ceremony. Applying for the award has provided Rychel with valuable experience and helped him to further refine his one-term lesson plan. "It's always enjoyable as a teacher when you have an outside body commenting you for work you've done," he smiled. "You're so busy handing work out and grading work that sometimes you don't get the chance to refine your own. The next time I taught the unit I actually thought I did a better job because, for the first time, I had time to create a focus-- how do I introduce it, how do I teach it, how do I evaluate it and see what has come out of it at the end." The award recognizes the contributions of Canada's history teachers, ranging from elementary grades through secondary school. Deborah Morrison, CEO and President of Canada's National History Society says, "Inspiring students to take an interest in history and develop a sense of pride and place is without a doubt a real challenge in today's future- focused society. These exceptional teachers have a unique way of bringing history to life that not only engages students, but makes history the coolest subject in school." Rychel's teaching style and his ability to explain history through the small, bizarre, or gross details captures students' interest in the subject, and makes history class more enjoyable to sit through. Rychel will be leaving Morden next year, to go to T. A. Blakelock, where he will be teaching English and PhysEd. Yet, his real passion for teaching continues to lie in history. "Whenever there's an opening in history, I'll be sticking my nose and going pick me, pick me!" he laughed. -- Hiba Kesebi is a former student of Andrew Rychel at W. H. Morden. She is a third year journalism student at Ryerson and is working as a summer intern with The Oakville Beaver. European Engineering Combined With Traditional Workmanship "Building on the Brightest Ideas Around Glass" 905.849.0266 Need a break from your regular routine? Longo's chef- prepared COOKING CLASSES may just be the break you're looking for! It's all happening upstairs in The Loft's state-of-theart demonstration kitchen and classroom at Longo's Burloak in the RioCan Center. COMING SOON Fish & Seafood-Hot off the Grill Wednesday July 16th Two classes: 1-3pm OR 7-9pm Join Longo's Fish & Seafood expert Roger Tai who dazzled his students with his helpful hints and delicious recipes at his June 17th SOLD OUT class. ONLY $10 Easy Entertaining with Beef Wednesday July 23rd 7-9pm Home Economist and Certified Angus Beef expert Sara Donohoe from Ohio will be visiting Longo's to demonstrate a variety of recipes including Flank Steak Kabobs, pan-seared steaks with red wine sauce and other mouthwatering dishes. A Longo's Exclusive! ONLY $10 Italian Alfresco Thursday August 14th 7-9pm Join Cookbook Author Emily Richards as she creates a delicious, summertime backyard meal. Emily's classes are always popular, so book early! ONLY $30 * These are just a few of many exciting classes offered. To register call (905) 825-8989 or visit the personal touch service counter at Longo's Burloak 3455 Wyecroft RD, at Burloak. L6L 0B1 www.Longos.com