Learning: DisneyHand Teacher Awards: The 2004 Honorees
Robert F. Thomas III
Middle School: Special Needs - Community-Based Class for students with exceptionalities including Mentally Retarded and Other Health Impaired

Robert F. Thomas III
Dueitt Middle School
Spring, TX

"My classroom is run like a television variety show. I am the host and all performing acts combined in one person. I have no discernable talent, but I attempt to sing, dance, perform comedy and play instruments. These allow me to make learning fun, but every performance is based upon current educational themes, student IEP goals and state and school district standards. The variety show technique is used so that students will acquire more knowledge through a series of multi-sensory activities."

-- Robert

"Robert teaches the community based program called Building Bridges, Helping Others While Helping Ourselves. I consider him the most innovative, creative and caring teacher that I have encountered in 19 years. His high expectation for student learning has encouraged his students, building their self esteem to the point where they feel comfortable working with 'regular' students in regular classrooms. The empathy, excitement and understanding gained by on and above grade level students. They often learn information that exceeds lessons taught in my classroom."

-- Susan Gregurek, Colleague

In Robert's classroom, multiculturalism is not just celebrating different cultures during Hispanic heritage Month or black History Month, but is a celebration of cultures all year. He continually brings the sights, sounds and people of many cultures into his classroom. Students write questions for three guests, and during the week, Robert has a talk show called, "I am …." He dresses in native costumes, brings in native foods, and plays music to commemorate a holiday in a selected culture. This talk show format helps teach students about their and other cultures.

Other Highlights:

  • Greensheet Salute to Teachers Award, 2003
  • Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year, 2003
  • Philadelphia High School Educator of the Year, 1999
  • Step by Step Community Worker of the Year, 1997
  • Teacher of the Year - Salem County Special Services, 1994
  • Step by Step, 1997 - 2000
  • Special Olympics, 1984 - 1990
  • Big Brothers, 1986 - 1990
  • Professional memberships, Council for Exceptional Children, 1984-2000; MH/MR of Philadelphia Support Council, 1997-2000