A Maryvale High School teacher in Cheektowaga received a top state honor Thursday. WBFO's Senior Reporter Eileen Buckley says Adam Norris was awarded with the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award.
“The committee has picked, as a truly extraordinary individual, and an extraordinary educator, Mr. Adam Norris,” announced Governor Andrew Cuomo.
The Governor appeared Thursday at Maryvale High School to honor the social studies high school teacher, but it was all a surprise to Norris.
“I got a call to come down, and I mentioned I had a class and I was told ‘find somebody to cover for you, you need to come down’. When I saw the suits I figured this is really good news or really bad news and then, thankfully, when I came in the room and saw my family it was all very good news,” Norris said.
Norris has been at the high school since 2006. The award recognizes outstanding educators who exemplify the highest professional standards -- inspiring their students, motivating and challenging them. He uses what is known as a 'flip model' in the classroom.
“Where I record my lectures and have the students watch them at home and then they will come in and we’ll do different things instead of me just lecturing,” Norris explained.
Students were told about the surprise prior to the news event. They praised Norris for his classroom work saying he's animated and progressive.
“We’re challenged, but he makes it easier, so I guess it’s not really a challenge at all,’ said one student.
"He doesn’t only help in the classroom. He makes time if you need it. After school, before school, study halls – he takes time out of his day just to make sure you get everything down,” described another Maryvale High student.
Norris was recognized by the Maryvale Board of Education for outstanding U.S. History Advanced Placement scores , the highest in the School’s history.
Norris is one of ten teachers state-wide receiving $5,000 to support professional development. Norris say he wants to become a Nationally Board Certified Teacher.
Students tell us if all teachers taught like Mr. Norris, they would be straight A-students.