The Boy Scouts of America recently surprised four Killeen Independent School District (KISD) educators with the Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award. The award recognizes their efforts to instill the spirit of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law in their classrooms. Each of the four teachers received their awards during surprise announcements at their respective schools.
The award winners include Shawnette Simmons, a kindergarten teacher at Harker Heights Elementary School; Joshua Garrick, a long-term substitute teacher at Venable Village Elementary School; Eric Reynolds, the band director at Ellison High School; and Rodney Cooper, an AVID teacher at Audie Murphy Middle School.
Simmons was recognized for her diligent teaching, serving colleagues and students, and building students’ confidence while sharing kindness even to challenging students. Garrick was recognized for his special relationship with students and providing insights into their behavior and performance. Reynolds, a new band director, was recognized for his 15 years of service as an announcer at football and basketball games and as a local church youth pastor. Cooper was recognized for his encouragement of students and staff members, providing support during difficult times, and teaching valuable lessons outside the curriculum.
All four teachers were nominated for their outstanding work teaching students and serving as positive role models. They were surprised with the awards during the school day by representatives of the Boy Scouts of America and Laura Dunnells, a KISD Transition Coordinator in Special Education and an award committee member.
Image Source: Killeen ISD
Central Texas Reporter 