Publications & Sites 
Teacher wins school supply award
Pennoyer School second grade teacher Melissa Christl was selected to receive $1,000 in supplies from Office Max. | Brian O'Mahoney~for Sun-Times Media
Article Extras
Updated: December 9, 2012 6:01AM
NORRIDGE — Much satisfaction can be derived from being a teacher.
There’s the “aha” moment when the light bulb goes off, and one can see in a student’s eyes that he or she grasps a new concept.
There’s also that moment when a teacher’s talent not only is recognized by peers, but also by those outside the system.
Such was the honor bestowed on Pennoyer School second-grade teacher Melissa Christl.
At a surprise ceremony, she learned she received $1,000 in classroom supplies from the Office Max Adopt-a-Classroom program.
“I have folders, pencils, paint, a laminator,” Christl said. “I’m more than ecstatic.”
In addition to boxes upon boxes of supplies, Christl also received a video camera, an ergonomically supportive desk chair and a label maker.
“I have labels on everything now,” she said.
Pennoyer Principal Susan Miceli explained why she and Superintendent Michael Lubelfeld nominated Christl for the prize.
“She’s great at her craft,” Miceli said. “She’s always helping — staff, students, parents.”
Christl called the effort “an honor.”
An honor that was “very well deserved,” Miceli added.
Christl was shocked when she walked into the gymnasium to receive the news.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I had absolutely no idea.”
Christl noted the experience was a humbling one.
“I’m never at a loss for words, but I couldn’t believe I got an opportunity like this,” she said. “My colleagues are very supportive.”
Christl compared the experience to Christmas.
“There were things I couldn’t do because I didn’t have the resources,” she said. “Now the possibilities are endless.
“I have enough glue to last for years,” she added with a laugh.
And enough supplies to share.
