David M. Hersey Summer Sabbatical
When David Hersey was president of The Blake Schools, he often spoke of the great strength of the faculty of the school, and he was concerned about finding ways to allow them to spend their summer months renewing themselves while honing and improving their teaching skills. He felt that teachers were often limited by finances during their summers, and either had to take a second job during a vacation, or were financially limited from pursuing major academic or intellectual growth.
After David resigned from The Blake Schools, the Board of Trustees established a Summer Sabbatical Program in his honor. "Each year three summer sabbaticals are awarded to faculty members who represent the high level of teaching effectiveness at Blake. It is hoped that these sabbaticals will allow the recipient to develop an interest which, without the award, would be difficult to pursue. The term sabbatical is used here in the broadest sense and includes, but is not limited to, academic work, curriculum study, and travel."
Nominations for Hersey Sabbaticals can be made by self-nomination or by nomination by colleagues or administration. In any case, the nomination should speak to the faculty member's demonstrated excellence in teaching and contributions to the school's mission. While intended use of the award is not a criterion, it does help the administration make knowledgeable awards. Intended use should be described in the application. The expectation is that the recipient will continue employment at Blake in the subsequent year.
Application Deadline: November 2
Date of Notification: December 15