Arch Insights
Arch Coal Teacher Achievement Awardee
Christine French Credits Former Teachers’
Influence
Cheyenne
(May 3, 2002) - Newcastle High School’s
Christine French chose the teaching profession
for a number of reasons. Yet one in particular
stands out. “I had many wonderful, caring
teachers, who inspired me to excel in everything
I pursued and who challenged me to expand my
knowledge base beyond what was taught in the
classroom,” French explains. “I was often called
upon to assist other students with their
learning. As I observed the attributes my
teachers possessed, I realized I too possessed
the qualities necessary to be the kind of
teacher who could positively influence
students.”
French’s observations paid off — inside the
classroom and out! Today she was one of only 10
Wyoming teachers to receive a 2002 Arch Coal
Teacher Achievement Award.
Steven F. Leer, president and chief executive
officer of Arch Coal, made the announcement.
Gov. Jim Geringer, Superintendent of Public
Instruction Judy Catchpole, and Wyoming
Education Association Communications Director
Ron Sniffin joined Leer at a ceremony at Jessup
Elementary School in Cheyenne, which honored
award recipients.
“Arch Coal is pleased to honor 10 excellent
Wyoming teachers, who every day bring the magic
of learning to their students,” Leer says. “We
believe that great classroom teachers are
primary, positive influences in American
education. I know these teachers dare their
students to succeed — and then teach them how!”
“As a building principal and as someone who has
worked closely with Christine, I can tell you
her quality of teaching is of the highest
caliber,” notes Brad LaCroix. “Christine is a
superb teacher/leader, who consistently
demonstrates her ability to envision school
improvement, get others excited about that
vision, and work industriously to bring the
vision to fruition."
Mary E. McGinty has taken two courses instructed
by French. “In one class, I had the opportunity
to participate in a one-day job shadowing
experience and to complete a 16-week internship
in the community,” she notes. “Largely as a
result of this program, I finalized my future
plans to pursue International Business/Public
Relations.
“Mrs. French’s eagerness to make a difference in
students’ lives, as well as to make the best of
each day, encourages me as a student and
inspires me as a person,” McGinty adds.
French earned her associate’s degree at Eastern
Wyoming College, Torrington; a bachelor’s degree
at the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley;
and a master’s degree at the University of
Wyoming. With 26 years’ experience, she teaches
computer applications, desktop publishing and
employability skills/internship to grades 10-12.
“The opportunity to instruct and interact with
students is one of the major factors that
motivate me to continue teaching,” she notes.
“As a life-long learner, who continually
participates in professional development
activities, I am motivated to continue teaching,
as I am eager and excited to share my newly
acquired knowledge and skills with my students.”
Each award recipient receives a $2,500
unrestricted cash award and a distinctive glass
trophy, in addition to other recognition. The
Arch Coal teacher recognition program is unique
because it features public nomination and peer
selection. This is the second year for the Arch
Coal Teacher Achievement Awards in Wyoming.
The Department of Education, the Wyoming
Education Association, Taco John’s and MiniMart
support Arch Coal in the program.
Arch Coal is the nation’s second largest coal
producer and employs more than 500 people in
Wyoming. The company annually produces more than
65 million tons of clean-burning, low-sulfur
coal at its Wyoming operations. Arch’s Black
Thunder operation, in Campbell County, is one of
the nation’s largest and most efficient coal
mines. Arch Coal is traded on the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE: ACI) and maintains its corporate
headquarters in St. Louis.