Claussen Honored For Her Teaching

Tammy Claussen, a physical education teacher at Leland & Gray Union High School in Townshend, has been named Teacher of the Year by the Vermont Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Claussen is the daughter of Larry Brassard and the late Joyce Brassard of Brookfield.

Claussen has also been offered and has accepted the position of vice-president of the association, which will give her a chance to collect data on innovative physical education programs across the state.

While she has received rewards for her role as the school’s athletic director, this will be the first time Claussen has been honored for her teaching.

Claussen went to Springfield College and majored in physical education, but only later realized how much she enjoyed teaching. "It’s been a nice fit for me," she said.

She and her colleague, Tom Russell, have worked to expand awareness of the necessity for fitness, "on a day-to-day basis promoting wellness."

The program has evolved into a curriculum that encourages life-time activity rather than competitive team sports.

Students work individually in the weight room or take cardio-kick boxing or Tae Bo.

Claussen also coaches varsity softball.

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