Nathan Thomas ’12, a music education major and student teacher, recently received the “Teacher of the Month” award from Orange High School.
Thomas is currently student teaching in the school’s Music Department (Band). “In the 14 years I have been worked in and with public schools, I have never heard of a student teacher receiving the ‘Teacher of the Month’ award,” said Assistant Professor Jeff Carpenter, Elon’s secondary and K-12 teacher education programs coordinator. “It’s impressive.”
Thomas received the award for his high quality teaching, as well as his flexibility with and involvement in standardized testing in February. The administration recognized him for his willingness to proctor and administrate several ACT-style tests, as well as his flexibility in teaching the band classes when, Mr. Carter, his mentor teacher had to facilitate other tests.
Gerald Knight, university supervisor and music education coordinator, said that he was not surprised to hear about Thomas receiving the award.
“In the courses that he has studied with me he has always demonstrated the attributes that will cause him to be a great teacher, a teacher who will stand out among even the best teachers,” Knight said. “I actually believe that both of our students at Orange High School – the other is Heather Babb – have excelled tremendously in their studies and have the potential to impact the teaching profession as a whole during their careers.”