For over two decades, Jeremey Spink has had a long-lasting impact on students at Eastview Middle School.
His dedication to teach was celebrated last month, as Spink was selected as the 2020/21 NHL/NHLPA Most Valuable Teacher for February.
The long-time teacher and minor hockey coach was one of 20 teachers across North America nominated for the honour. The award nets the school a $10,000 grant, which will help purchase technology for classrooms that will get into the hands of their students.
Spink, 50, is now in the running as a finalist to receive an additional $20,000 for Eastview Middle School, and $1,000 towards a personal technology device to improve the virtual classroom experience. That winner will be announced in May following another round of voting.
“I’m so excited and almost overwhelmed,” said Spink. “I want to say thank you so much to the whole community. It was amazing to see the community rally and help us win.”
The Grade 8 teacher was originally selected for his integration of the Future Goals – Hockey Scholar program into the classroom. He is also being recognized for the way he brings science, technology, engineering and mathematics to life for students.
“I am so happy that he has been recognized for the work he does in our school. He has had such a positive impact on so many students who are currently at Eastview and who have had him as a teacher or a coach in the past,” said Eastview principal Kevin Robertson.
“One of the things that I have most appreciated is hearing about the countless past students who have reached out to him as a result of this to thank him for making a difference and for being such a positive role model for them. It is a pretty exciting day for Eastview.”
Chad Erickson, superintendent of schools added that the win is something Spink deserves to be proud of.
“We are proud of Jeremy’s dedication to students and ensuring they have the best teaching and learning experiences possible,” he said.
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