On December 19th 2013 I was awarded the 2014 Michael Lansberry Nevada Teacher of the Year. I can not begin to describe the honor, pride and sense of accomplishment this award brings me, not only in a professional sense but on a much deeper personal level. This year State Superintendent of public schools, Dale Erquiaga, honored former Marine and Sparks middle school teacher Michael Landsberry by dedicating the award to his memory. On October 21st 2013 a twelve year old student shot Mr. Landsberry in the chest in a school-yard shooting. The gunman wounded two others, and would have perpetrated even more carnage if it wasn't for Mr. Lanndsberry's brave action in confronting the boy, giving others time to escape. I did not know Mr. Landsberry, but I do know Marines. Almost 20 years ago I was a young jar head and I know from experience that they put others before themselves, they confront rather than retreat from danger. They are leaders who live their lives according to values like honor, courage and commitment.
This year I have committed myself to honoring Michael Landsberry's memory by working hard on behalf of all of Nevada's teachers to elevate the profession to the status and level of respect it deserves. When I received the award I was asked to say a few words. The ceremony was a complete surprise so I did not have a prepared speech, looking into the faces of my students, colleagues, family, and other esteemed guests I started to panic, then I remembered the words of Ronald Reagan, “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem.” I will also add either do teachers.
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