Every month in the school year two teachers are recognized for the hard work and dedication to their students and to the school. There are different awards for each month. For the month of March the two outstanding award winners are Mr. Dan Keller and Mr. Joe O’ Neil.
Mr. Keller received the “You Make a Difference” award this month. The award was given to him from Mr. Ruben De Celis. Mr. R.D.C and Keller have a special bond where hanging out and constantly talking is not necessary to understand and help one another from day to day. Mr. R.D.C gave Mr. Keller the award because he felt like Keller deserved it from all of his hard work and dedication. Keller, in the school year of 2000, taught multiple students who wrote him a card expressing their gratitude towards him. Keller will remain known for his teaching abilities, the potential he sees in his students that is hard to see at times, and his drive to help students progress intellectually. He spends hours helping his students, and others who need help, learn and grow so that they can succeed in life. His contagious humor makes you want to learn. The beginning of a great start is in Mr. Keller’s classroom.
Mr. O’Neil was given the “Crystal Apple” award for March 2013. Many of O’Neil’s colleagues voted him for best candidate this month. O’Neil says, “It’s the quality in being able to relate to the students and being there for them that helps me be able to be a good teacher.” This is Mr. O’Neil’s 18th year here at JHS, and there are so many students who are touched by his patience and care for them. A graduate of 2009 ran into O’Neil a few days ago and told him how much he is missed and asked how he was doing. O’Neil has to be a good teacher and role model if someone from a few years ago can remember the feelings they have for him and his teaching style. This is the second time Mr. O’Neil has received the “Crystal Apple” award and he also got the “You Make a Difference” award twice. He got a crystal apple and a ten dollar gift card to Wal-Mart, as well as the honor of recognition. “It’s great to have a sign of recognition from someone who brings something special to JHS,” said O’Neil.
Congratulations to Mr. Keller and Mr. O’Neil for earning awards. Both are amazing teachers and leaders and deserve the awards. Keep up with influencing students to do the greater good and pushing us towards our best selves!