Robert Roeckers, a first-year teacher at Okaloosa STEMM Academy, has been named the inaugural recipient of the “Thank A Teacher” recognition program — a new initiative to honor exceptional local educators.
- The program is a collaboration between the Okaloosa County School District and HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital.
- Community members can visit the Thank A Teacher website year-round to nominate standout teachers who make a difference in students’ lives.
Roeckers, who teaches aerospace and serves as an advisory teacher at the middle school STEMM magnet program, was chosen for his “undeniable enthusiasm and commitment to fostering a love for learning,” administrators said in a news release Tuesday.
Since starting at Okaloosa STEMM this academic year, Roeckers has quickly become a favorite among his students — using an innovative, fun teaching style to make topics engaging for adolescents.
“This year is Mr. Roeckers’ first year of teaching, but the way he acts makes his classes fun and enjoyable, you would think that he has been teaching for quite some time,” one grateful student remarked. “He also is very kind to his students and everyone else on campus, and will always greet you with a smile.”
Roeckers was recognized at the school and received $250 from HCA Florida Healthcare, which operates HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital in Okaloosa County.
December nominations for the Thank A Teacher program are open. You can visit the Thank A Teacher website to express your gratitude for your favorite teacher!
