Magnet bids farewell to Russell

After teaching for 45 years, science teacher and magnet research coordinator Jonetta Russell retired on Jan 30.

Russell has been commended for Blair's annual excellence in the Intel Science Talent Search competition. In the 2002 Science Talent Search, Blair placed 17 semifinalists, the most in the country.

Magnet coordinator Eileen Steinkraus thinks that much of Russell's gift lies in her positive attitude. "She cares about her students doing their best," Steinkraus said. "That inspires them."

Her students also credit her for their achievements. "The success of the magnet was due [in large part] to Mrs. Russell," said senior Enoch Chu, one of Russell's students and an Intel semifinalist. "She has an incredible amount of experience in dealing with scientists and getting internship positions for us."

Senior Jacob Burnim, an Intel finalist, agreed that Russell was "really on top of things" when it comes to finding internships. She helped Burnim secure an internship during his sophomore year by alerting him of an opportunity he might have otherwise missed.

Russell began teaching in 1957 in Pennsylvania and has taught in both elementary and high schools since then. After she came to teach for MCPS in 1971, Russell played a significant role in incorporating the Advanced Placement (AP) Biology courses into the county biology curriculum, and she later became the first AP Biology instructor in MCPS. According to a PTSA press release, she shows her great knowledge of biology through her plant hormone instruction unit, "Wonder Plants," which was disseminated by the College Board to teachers throughout the county.

Russell's specialization in biology did not keep her from helping students study material in other subjects, Steinkraus said. "Part of her uniqueness comes from her understanding of the scientific process and her ability to communicate that to others, regardless of the field of study," said Steinkraus.

Russell has volunteered for 21 years as assistant director of the Montgomery Area Science Fair. In addition to her other accolades, she has been honored with the United States Army's 2000 Tools Award and Pennsylvania's 1963 Department of Public Instruction Governor's Award.

Russell will miss teaching dedicated students. "I've always enjoyed working with high school students. Most of the students I work with have a work ethic; they are interested in being future citizens of America," she says.

Russell's students will also miss her. "Mrs. Russell transcends the normal definition of a teacher," said senior Claudia Han. "I will miss her smile, her laughter, her knowledge, her skills, her compassion, her humanity and her humor," she said.

After looking back at her tenure at Blair, Russell is happy with the impact she has had. "I enjoy seeing the students progress, and I am satisfied that I have been a brick in their knowledge base," she said.

As for her future goals, Russell has not decided on anything but promises to stay active. "I have no definite plans. As long as your heart is ticking, you have a job to do," said Russell with a smile.