MINOT – Though many teachers work hard to educate their students, only one can receive the Ward County Teacher of the Year award.
So was the case for Brian Walz, a math teacher at Erik Ramstad Middle School, who, after being recognized at Wednesday’s county commissioner meeting, said there are a lot of great teachers in Ward County.
After staff, students, or parents recommend teachers for this award, the teachers can fill out several questions for the application of the award. Walz said the county awards are new, to give more opportunities for recognition and applications for the State Teacher of the Year award.
“Each county has a Teacher of the Year, and all of them are allowed to apply for the State Teacher of the Year,” said Walz. “I think the heart of that is, teachers, and even me, I’m like I got kids at school, I would rather teach. We don’t toot our own horn. There’s so many great teachers in this county that it’s an honor to be recognized.”
Walz, who has been teaching for 11 years, tells his students that if they don’t like math, it’s fine because he will like it enough for all of them.
“I like to interject humor into the classroom, because overall, I understand that math is not everyone’s favorite,” said Walz. “If your best is a C, let’s rock out a C. We’re going to have fun. I tell my kids, it’s your choice. I’m going to have fun. But it’s their choice.”
“Your reputation precedes you for many years,” Chairman Jim Rostad told Walz at Wednesday’s meeting. “I’m glad that you are recognized for this award. Thank you on behalf of all Ward County students for all you do, day in and day out, year in and year out.”
