Gerome Smith has been named Copper Basin Elementary School’s (CBES)Teacher of the Year by faculty and staff.
“Even though it is incredibly difficult to teach crazy children for many years without absolutely losing your mind, Mr. G has demonstrated how to effectively do so in a fun, yet educational, way,” students Josie Adams and Raegan Farner wrote about the teacher.
“When it comes to making learning fun, Mr. G is an expert. Everyone can agree that his classes are the highlights of not only everybody’s week but also their year. He is always available to help and gives everyone the tools they need to succeed.”
For the six years Smith has been at CBES, he has stepped into the roles of Garden Club advisor, which he spearheaded some four years ago, Snack in a Backpack and food bank coordinator, and science teacher.
He also coordinates the annual White Christmas program and science fair.
“I was surprised,” Smith said of his earning the title of Teacher of the Year. “I mean, me and the students have a pretty good relationship, but this is a peer award.
“I was shocked that they thought enough of me to consider me for that award. I just try to go and, you know, just do what I think’s right and do my best at it.”
Just in time for Christmas, Smith and his students created ornaments and cards to bring to the residents of Life Care Center of Copper Basin.
They do this every year, he said, and they bring gifts and sing carols for the residents too.
This year, they also provided a blu-ray player with movies to watch, cookies and poinsettias.