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Social studies teacher honored

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The Washington County Community Foundation has named Matthew Cheran, a social studies teacher at Peters Township Middle School, the recipient of this year’s Dr. Howard Jack Outstanding Public Educator Award.

Recipients must inspire students of all abilities, have earned the respect of colleagues, students and parents, and be actively engaged in the community.

“Mr. Cheran has an exceptional ability to connect with his students – both inside the classroom and beyond. In addition to making coursework engaging, he provides vital emotional support during what can often be a challenging time for young adolescents,” said William M. Campbell, WCCF chairman. “He truly exhibits the type of professional dedication the Dr. Howard Jack Outstanding Public Educator Award was created to recognize.”

Fellow Peters Township teacher Carla McCue wrote, “Matt gets to know not only the students and their academic abilities, but also their hobbies, talents and families. His enthusiasm never fades, his passion never diminishes and his determination never falters.”

After graduating from Baldwin High School, Cheran attended Penn State University and the University of Georgia. Moved by the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, he decided to leave his successful career in insurance case management to follow his dream of becoming a teacher. He was hired by Peters Township School District in 2004.

“Education is nothing like it was 30 years ago. Now, you have to be part entertainer and try to keep them engaged for those 41 minutes. … It’s like you are on stage,” Cheran said.

Cheran takes his responsibilities as a role model particularly seriously, but he also believes it is important for his students to see him as a person. They’ve laughed together; they’ve cried together. He feels that building that relationship is paramount.

Visitors to his social studies classes will not find students memorizing important dates, events or figures. His lessons are about telling the story of history. Students discuss themes and concepts, as well as current events, in ways that make their lessons both interesting and relevant to their studies in other disciplines.

They also greatly enjoy his educational “re-enactments,” such as those based on the immigration process at Ellis Island or the Oklahoma Land Rush.

In addition to making guest appearances in school musicals and emceeing special events, Cheran hosts regular after-school tutoring, coaches the forensics team and serves as president of the Peters Township Education Foundation, which works to enrich opportunities provided by the district.

“There is no teacher quite as mindful as Mr. Cheran of the specific feelings of each and every student, making it seem as if he doubles as a guidance counselor. … I am confident, as anyone else who has had Mr. Cheran is, that he inspired me, leaving no doubt that I am in fact a better person having met him,” said Max Lindsay, a 2014 graduating senior.

In Cheran’s honor, WCCF approved a $1,000 grant to the Peters Township Education Foundation.

“Teaching is an investment, it’s a lifestyle, and the kids know when their teachers are putting everything they’ve got into the job,” Cheran said. “This award is external validation for what I do every day: making a difference, making an impact. It is so humbling.”

The Dr. Howard Jack Outstanding Public Educator Award will be presented to Cheran May 29 at WCCF’s annual Legacy Celebration. For more information, visit www.wccf.net.

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