Norma Bondeson Gaffron & Bernard W. Gaffron Elementary Education Scholarship

Norma and Bernard W. Gaffron established the Norma Bondeson Gaffron and Bernard W. Gaffron Elementary Education Scholarship as an annual scholarship with the Winona State University Foundation. This scholarship will benefit WSU students majoring in Elementary Education. Students must be a declared major in Winona State University’s Elementary Education program and have been admitted to the Teacher Education Program.

Criteria

1. Each recipient must be an undergraduate student enrolled full-time and in good standing at Winona State University. (minimum of 12 credits per semester, Fall and Spring)
2. Each recipient must be a declared Elementary Education major and accepted in to the teacher education program.
3. As part of the application process for this scholarship, the student must submit an essay describing the following:

• Explain your future goals and career aspirations and what you hope to accomplish as an Elementary Education teacher.
• Explain your financial need and why this scholarship will make a difference.

Biography/Motivation

Norma Bondeson Gaffron graduated with honors from Winona State Teachers College in 1951. She took part in multiple extra-curricular activities including marching band, Wenonah Players and Y.W.C.A during her time in Winona. She was also awarded the Etta Hudson Howell Scholarship. Norma went on to teach third grade at Dodge Center schools from 1951-53, second grade at Lester Parker School in Duluth from 1954-56, and third grade at Mounds View school district from 1956-1960. In 1976 Norma received her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Minnesota.

Norma has been a freelance writer since 1977, publishing five nonfiction books for upper elementary grades, as well as many articles in magazines and newspapers. As Co-Advisor for the Society of Childrens Book Writers and Illustrators in Minnesota, she built an inactive region into an active and nationally respected one. As a member of the Board of the Kerlan Collection of Childrens Literature at the University of Minnesota she chaired various committees and designed displays for the Childrens Theatre Company in Minneapolis.

Norma says, I learned how to teach at Winona “TC”, but more than that, my education there became the background for a lifetime of interest and service to children and books. By sponsoring a scholarship I hope to help another student to embrace elementary education and its rewards.