PINE BELT, Miss. (WDAM) – September’s Golden Apple Award winner is truly loved by his fellow teachers at Oak Grove High School.
In May, educators voted to give 9th grade English teacher Felix Williams the highest honor – Teacher of the Year.
Principal Helen Price said Williams is doing a lot to support teachers and students.
“He can help motivate students, and some of those students who need the most attention and support, Mr. Williams is the one who provides that,” Price said.
Devonta Holder, an 11th grader, said Williams was there for him in tough times.
“For my last three years, he just helped me with whatever I needed when I was struggling,” Holder said. “You know when I needed help, when I was depressed, when I came to school after having bad days, I just needed someone to talk to, he was always Here for me.”
Now it was the school’s turn to be there for Williams.
The principal, administration, teachers and students quickly made their way to Williams’ classroom and came through the door shouting “Surprise!” »
Williams looked shocked and confused when he received his award. But, then he explained what it meant to him to receive the award.
“I thank the Oak Grove family,” Williams said. “I thank my students. We were just talking about my mother. We were just talking about his transition and everything, so I’m all choked up right now. I’m a little emotional. I thank Ms. Price. I thank my colleagues, and above all, I thank the students because I love them.
Williams wanted other teachers to know he understands education is hard work, but he said, “Remember your kids need you.”
“I would say to all the teachers in the world, just be who you are,” Williams said. “Inculcating values in children; instill that love that your parents taught you, and then I think they can be productive students in this world.
If you would like to nominate an educator at your school, go to wdam.com/goldenapple.
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