Sterling High’s Teacher of the Month Encourages Kids to Soar
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| Ross Sterling High School aviation teacher Roger Thompson was named "Teacher of the Month" for October 2007 by the Education Foundation of Harris County. |
It’s small wonder that Ross Sterling High School aviation teacher Roger Thompson was named “Teacher of the Month” for October 2007 by the Education Foundation of Harris County (EFHC).
The 15-year teaching veteran helped build and continues to run the aviation program at the HISD Magnet school, and in the process, he also helps his students develop character traits like trust, courage, determination, and patience.
The EFCH Surprise Patrol honored Thompson November 30 for his dedication to Houston’s budding aviators, with gifts for his classroom, flowers, and accolades, as well as an invitation to the Excellence in Education gala in February as a Teacher of the Year candidate.
Principal Lynda Wright says Thompson is a large part of what attracts students to the Magnet aviation program. “His instruction, as well as the nature of the course, inspire students to be the best they can be,” she explained. Thompson even finds time to locate former students who have become licensed pilots to mentor other students in the program. “This is what makes him a very special person,” said Wright.
Each month, one Harris County public-school teacher is visited by representatives from the Education Foundation of Harris County with a surprise patrol celebration. At year’s end, one of the 12 winners is named the Harris County “Teacher of the Year.” To nominate an educator for the Teacher of the Month award, visit the Education Foundation’s Web site.
Last year, former First Lady Barbara Bush presented the Philamena Baird Teacher of the Year award at the annual Excellence in Education gala. The upcoming dinner event is set for Tuesday, February 5, 2008, at Union Station, with Drayton McLane Jr. as the featured speaker. For more information, call 713-696-8290.
The Education Foundation of Harris County, a 501c3 organization founded in 1994, is a nonprofit organization working in partnership with the Harris County Department of Education which supports programs for the 26 school districts in Harris County, creating opportunities for all children.
