MANCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL

134 EAST MIDDLE TURNPIKE, MANCHESTER, CT 06040

Mrs. Jill Krieger, Principal
860.647.3521
jkrieger@manchesterct.gov

August 6, 2015
To Whom It May Concern:
I am pleased to offer this recommendation in support of Ms. Christina deVecchis, who completed her 16week student-teaching experience with me at Manchester High School. Christina was assigned to two of
my 10th grade College Preparatory Modern World History classes, while two other cooperating teachers
had her teaching a CP Modern World History class and a senior multi-leveled civics course.
During Christinas tenure with me, I observed many of her positive attributes. Christina had a strong
command of the classroom with respect to gaining the trust and cooperation of the students. The
students and Ms. deVecchis established a good rapport, which aided in meeting her main objective,
which was to provide meaningful learning connections for her students. At the same time, Christina
welcomed, expected and accepted constructive feedback, which was clearly visible throughout the
semester. Of course, it goes without stating, that Christina demonstrated a solid knowledge of the
content area. I added a twist to her experience because not only did she need to know the subject matter
but she needed to inject a medical spin to the instruction, since we followed an academy based model.
I was impressed with Christinas consistent desire to reflect on a variety of activities that she implemented
within the classroom. This was not easy due to the fact she had three different teachers; however, she
welcomed the feedback. Within the reflection process, Christina realized that differentiated instruction
was essential to meet the needs of all of her learners. Along with reflection, Christina had the opportunity
to consult with one of our instructional coaches to gain additional feedback and ideas to design a whole
unit around the topic of genocide. Upon her request, Christina asked my assistant principal to observe
one of her lessons so that she could experience the new evaluation system.
I must acknowledge the outstanding comments I received from various colleagues, the administrative
team and even the superintendent on how professional Christina conducting herself during PLC time.
Our high school has had PLCs for years and the concept was being introduced throughout the district. To
that end, Christina worked with the World History PLC, which was selected to be videotaped for the entire
district to view and reflect on the interactions of those teachers. As educators were viewing the PLC
meeting, they had no idea what the level of teaching the educators had but many were so impressed with
Christinas presence and contribution in the meeting.
In closing, I feel Ms. deVecchis had a meaningful student teaching experience. She possesses the
necessary qualities, characteristics and competencies of a teacher and with continued mentoring will only
excel in this rewarding profession.
Sincerely,

Ian J. Webster
Ian J. Webster
Social Studies Instructor
B11iwebs@mpspride.org

(860) 942-6193

THE MINSTER SCHOOL

A Church of England Voluntary Aided School

David Boothroyd
Assistant Head Teacher
The Minster School
Southwell
Nottinghamshire
NG25 0LG
d.boothroyd@minster.notts.sch.uk
01636 817344
RE: Letter of recommendation for Miss Christina deVecchis
To whom it may concern,
Christina deVecchis spent two days a week in the Autumn term of 2015 at the Minster
School in Southwell. This was a placement as part of the final year of her Masters degree
at the University of Connecticut during which she spent a term based at the University of
Nottingham School of Education.
Throughout her time at the Minster School Christina worked in the History department.
Christina completed projects in preparing banks of resources, researching topics linked to
our exam syllabus, creating wall displays and supporting individuals and groups of
students. Christina also taught classes in the History department and supported other
teachers in doing so.
Christina was an asset to our department throughout her time with us and I am sure will be
an asset to the teaching profession throughout her career. Christina conducted herself with
absolute professionalism, was punctual and prompt in meeting deadlines, communicated
effectively with colleagues and was at all times enthusiastic and positive in her approach.
Christina, above all, displayed a deep commitment to students and their education, in the
broadest sense of the word.
I have no hesitation in recommending Christina to you without reservation, and would be
happy to be contacted to discuss this further.
Yours faithfully,

David Boothroyd

Head Teacher: Mr M J Parris

Nottingham Road, Southwell, NG25 0LG

Tel: (01636) 814000, Fax: (01636) 817358

Web: www.minster.notts.sch.uk
Email: office@minster.notts.sch.uk