Students 'Love to Learn' Because of this East Pikeland Teacher

Denise Krisiewicz is used to bestowing praise on her students. Now the tables have turned.

Krisiewicz, a third grade teacher at East Pikeland Elementary, is the 2013 Citadels’ Heart of Learning Award finalist for Phoenixville Area School District. The award was developed by Citadel and the Chester County Intermediate Unit 12 years ago to recognize the most outstanding teachers in Chester County.

The 16-year PASD veteran certainly fits the bill. Krisiewicz, who, according to district communications director Sandy Claus is “highly respected within the district,” has lead the after-school Science Explorer’s Club at East Pikeland for several years and has been directly involved in the development of the district’s science curriculum.

According to Claus, during the award presentation, Kyonia Hamilton of the Phoenixville branch of Citadel Federal Credit Union read excerpts from the nomination letters the tremendous teacher received.

“No problem is too challenging for this teacher. Each challenge that is encountered is handled with a detailed plan of action,” read one letter.

Another letter from a parent gave the teacher even more fulsome praise.

“I love the fact that my son wakes up every day and enjoys going to school, not only to see his friends, but because he loves reading, math and science. He loves to learn because of his teacher.”

In accepting the award, an emotional Krisiewicz praised her class, saying, “they were the reason she [taught], and why she loves coming to work every day.”