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Gifted Teacher Recognized as One of the Top in the Country

Christopher Benavides

Mr. Christopher Benavides, a resource teacher from Boca Raton, received national recognition at the 50th Annual National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) Conference held in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 12-16, 2003. Mr. Benavides was awarded a Professional Achievement Certificate and plaque for community service curriculum. He is the first from Florida and one out of nine teachers in the United States to receive this professional certification from NAGC.

The Professional Certificate of Achievement (PAC) is an individualized, mentored experience over a tailored two-year program filled with learning experiences based on goals set by the participant and mentor. "Kindness spoken in the classroom and practiced in the community makes a difference in all children," Benavides said. "The greatest reward can be found in sharing a part of someone's life and knowing you've made a difference. Service learning addresses community needs and prepares students for their future."

Mr. Benavides has taught 12 years in Palm Beach County in grades 4 through 8 and Gifted K through 5. He is also an adjunct instructor at Lynn University in Boca Raton where he teaches math and science methods courses in the School of Education. He strongly advocates community service learning in the classroom.