Photo Caption: Shown accepting his H&R Block Rookie Teacher of the Block award is Brett Frye(center). Celebrating with Mr. Frye are from left to right, Martha Jones, executive director of strategic partnerships for Richland Two, Joe Carraway, H&R Block district general manager, Lou Villwock, H&R Block area manager, Dr. Sophia Cornish, H&R Block area manager and Jeaneen Tucker, principal of Round Top Elementary School.
October 25, 2018
RICHLAND TWO ANNOUNCES FIRST ROOKIE TEACHER OF THE BLOCK
COLUMBIA — Richland School District Two, announced today that Round Top Elementary school special education teacher Brett Frye is the first H&R Block Rookie Teacher of the Block. The district and the tax preparation company are partnering to showcase the talents and accomplishments of our newest educators.
Mr. Frye was nominated for the award by Round Top Principal Jeaneen Tucker. She cited the new teacher's compassion for his students along with other ways he's demonstrated the district’s Core Values of Learning, Character, Community and Joy. In her nomination, Tucker noted that Frye’s calm demeanor and collaborative approach make him particularly suited for the role.
“His heart shows in his work each and every day,” she wrote. “(He) is also quick to celebrate the successes of his students. While the gains may seem small, he is keenly aware of the importance of each step forward. He also understands the importance of starting each day from a place of JOY with high expectations for success.”
It’s common knowledge that South Carolina and the nation are experiencing a teacher shortage. The district hopes that by encouraging and recognizing talent through programs like the Rookie Teacher of the Block award, new teachers will see that their hard work and efforts are valued. Partnerships like this one also reflect how valuable good teachers are to the workforce for whom they are preparing the next generation of employees. H&R Block has given a Teacher of the Block award for several years in other school districts, but this is the first time rookie teachers have been recognized by the company.
"This partnership with H&R Block is huge for our district." said Martha Jones, executive director of strategic partnerships. "This company understands the importance of showing teachers they are valued and they are working in a highly respected field. Teachers provide students the springboard to all other careers. It's the most important job there is. We are grateful that H&R Block shares our vision to support our teachers and more importantly they have put action to that belief."
Frye is the first Rookie Teacher of the Block. Richland Two and H&R Block will recognize a new teacher each month for the rest of the school year.
