In order to "challenge students to be the best they can be," Timothy Hammar, a third-grade teacher at Bobcean Elementary School in Flat Rock, implemented the Terrific Kids recognition program, and a grade-improvement incentive program called BUG (I Brought Up my Grades). By involving area businesses and organizations in these programs, Mr. Hammar has made the recognition of student achievement a matter of community pride. Today, countless parents and grandparents proudly display bumper stickers proclaiming their relationship with a Terrific Kid. Geography Challenge, an instructional game he created, helped pave the way to the national victory won by his class in the 1995 Geography and Science Olympiads. As a NASA liaison teacher, Mr. Hammar has involved his students in technology and worldwide communication, and as the director of The Flat Rock Angel Bell Choir, introduced them to the pleasures of music and community service.
Eastern Michigan University, M.A.
