Stringtown Elementary School Physical Education Teacher Jim Schmidt is the January recipient of the EVSC’s Cause for Applause award. The award seeks to recognize individuals who go above and beyond their normal job responsibilities.
In 1968, Apollo 8 was the first manned spacecraft to orbit the moon. It also was the year that Jim Schmidt started teaching in the EVSC. Fast-forward 50 years and Schmidt is still as dedicated as ever.
Schmidt, who was nominated by Stringtown Elementary School Secretary Charla Fitzsimmons, has served as a classroom teacher and is currently physical education teacher and girls and boys basketball coach at Stringtown. In her nomination letter, Fitzsimmons sites Schmidt’s unwavering commitment to the students at Stringtown.
Fitszimmons talks about a near fatal accident in which Schmidt was involved over the summer. Doctors told Schmidt he wouldn’t be able to return to school until at least February. However, according to Fitzsimmons, Schmidt amazed everyone by returning in October to ensure he could start the basketball season with his players.
In addition, Schmidt also plants trees around the school to replace those that are lost due to storms or age. He checks on the trees year round to water and ensure their progress.
“Jim adds so much to our schools and the kids love him,†Fitzsimmons wrote. “He invests so much of his time to the kids at school and in my opinion, he truly deserves the Cause for Applause award and is a perfect example of going above and beyond.â€
Anyone can nominate an employee of the EVSC for the award. Deadline for nominations is the third Friday of each month. To nominate an EVSC employee, go to www.evscschools.com and click on About Us and see Cause for Applause under Community. Paper forms are available at the schools for those without access to the Internet.
