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By Rama K. Ramaswamy
Teachers have arguably the most important job in the world. They motivate underachievers to fly. They coach, mentor and listen to students. They make the mundane, extraordinary. They are the quiet heroes who simplify complexities, motivate, and help students reveal their talents.
It is no surprise, then, when they are recognized for their efforts.
Hardy Elementary School first grade teacher Timothy Baldwin was honored by the Massachusetts Teachers Association as "Most Valuable Educator" and recognized at Fenway Park before a Red Sox-Royals game this year.
Baldwin was nominated by his colleague, fellow first grade teacher at Hardy School Christine Giampietro. "I have worked with Tim for four years now as a grade-level colleague and I immediately knew how loved he was within the community," Giampietro said in her nomination letter. "He has been teaching at Hardy for over 15 years and is also a Wellesley resident. He is humble and consistently goes above and beyond for his students and colleagues. If a child has a prolonged illness, Tim goes to their house to see if they’re okay. To further meet the needs of all students, Tim offers after school support at no cost. Tim consistently reads literature related to current best practices to implement in his classroom to best support his first graders. Tim bakes bread each year with his first graders to donate for Thanksgiving meals for the less fortunate. He has developed and offered an after school 'Math Club' at no charge that has been very successful with the students. He has written grants to get supplies in his classroom such as iPods to create listening centers to give children access to technology."
In addition to all this, according to other Hardy School teachers and staff, Baldwin heads up the "Sunshine Committee," which is a committee that supports colleagues in times of sickness, crisis, or celebration.
Giampietro, who learnt how to best tackle the many demands of being a first grade teacher from Baldwin, also commented on his sincere dedication to going above and beyond his role as a teacher.
"Tim spends many hours making sure his colleagues are well-taken care of in time of need," she said. "He also spends many hours helping colleagues better their practice by sharing materials that he created so all kids can have an equitable opportunity. He is always offering to lend a helping hand in any way, whether it is for the students or his colleagues. Tim’s dedication to the education profession is very inspiring, and we all appreciate his hard work and caring demeanor."
"Tim is just amazing, he does so much here," said Hardy School Principal Charlene Cook.
"No one is more deserving of this recognition," added Hardy School Librarian Lisa Rogers.
Some of the world's currently famous people, such as Oprah Winfrey and Helen Mirren, credit a special teacher as the source of their inspiration. Timothy Baldwin is one of those special teachers - he is remembered by parents and students alike, long after their time in the first grade has passed.
