TURNER — Mrs. Jeanne Prince, pre-kindergarten teacher at the Turner Primary School in MSAD 52, was presented the Patience W. Norman Prize for Teacher Excellence by Superintendent Henry J. Aliberti Jr. and Assistant Superintendent Becky Foley during a surprise assembly at the school. More than 300 students, teachers and parents crowded into the school’s gymnasium to celebrate the award presentation to Prince, a 31-year veteran of teaching.

The award is in honor of Patience W. Norman, who was a history teacher with a fine, inquisitive mind who believed her students were capable of academic excellence. Ms. Norman required her students to work hard and challenged them to surpass her and their own expectations.

The Patience W. Norman Prize for Teacher Excellence has been established at the Maine Community Foundation to recognize teachers in MSAD 52 who emulate her educational philosophy.

The annual award is bestowed upon a candidate who has been teaching in the district for a minimum of five years and demonstrates an unusual impact and effectiveness in the classroom, and a commitment to the students. Furthermore, the recipient must show creativity and innovation in teaching, and possess leadership skills that provide a positive model for students and staff.

The recipient chosen receives a $5,000 award.

Prince exemplifies the criteria established for this award. Ms. Theresa Gillis, principal of the Turner Primary School, arranged for Prince’s husband and twin sister to be in attendance for the presentation. Prince was surprised by their presence, and overwhelmed for being acknowledged for her teaching skills and professional qualities.