Charlie Bishop won Educator of the Year at IDEACon. This conference is a 3-day national conference focused on current education topics that draws in presenters, thought leaders, exhibitors, and partners from all over the world. Winning this award is special for several reasons. It's not just about recognition, but also about the impact he has made on his students, school, colleagues, and community. Here are a few reasons why this achievement is particularly meaningful:
Being named Educator of the Year highlights the years of hard work, passion, and commitment that a teacher has invested in their profession. It acknowledges the countless hours spent preparing lessons, helping students, colleagues, and making a difference in and outside of the classroom.
Educators shape future generations. When a teacher is selected for this award, it often means they have inspired and connected with their students in meaningful ways, helping them not just academically, but personally as well. Being an educator also includes assisting students and staff members alike. To get a better idea about who Mr. Bishop is, we went around and asked people working in the district if they could tell us a little more about him.
Starting with Superintendent Margo Empen about the prestigious award Mr. Bishop received, she said, "We are very proud of Mr. Bishop and his Educator of the Year award. Mr. Bishop continues to push himself as an educator, and his students are the benefactors of his knowledge, energy, and enthusiasm. We congratulate Mr. Bishop on his award, and everything he does for the students and staff of DPS #170. Way to go!"
After asking Tech Director Jim Manley, he said, "Charlie helps in all areas, specifically, he has been one of the first to learn systems like Canvas and Hapara. As well as directly teaching and mentoring other teachers in technology systems, he has created online courses for other teachers to learn new digital tools. He has also been one of the primary leaders of our Drone Soccer Program. It's a technology rich aviation sport where students build, program, fly, repair and maintain drones in a competitive team environment."
When talking to Dixon High School Principal Jared Shaner said, "Mr. Bishop is a valuable member of our staff who is always open and willing to help in any way needed. He consistently helps other staff members with technology needs and is not afraid to tackle new tasks and challenges. Charlie is a tremendous teacher in the classroom and works well with all students to give them the opportunities they need to be successful."
A few of Mr. Bishop's students also gave their thoughts about him receiving this award.
Lillyonna Tranbarger: "Mr. Bishop always makes me feel very comfortable and helps me understand my schoolwork. I am very thankful for him as a teacher and a coach."
Finley Morgan: "Mr. Bishop is so supportive. He always listens to what the students have to say whether they are emotional or not. I enjoy him as a coach and a teacher."
Owen Tucker: "Mr. Bishop is always understanding and takes his time to teach and make sure his students understand what is being taught. As a coach in Drone Soccer, he takes his time to ensure we all do our best."
J. R. Oles: Mr. Bishop always listens to his students. In his classes, he makes sure every student is on the same page. He is an extremely supportive coach too."
Zander Schaefer: "Mr. Bishop is a good coach and inspires the team."
Coming full circle, we asked Mr. Bishop about what receiving this award meant to him.
He said, "This award fuels my passion for education even more. It reinforces that the work we do in the classroom makes a difference, and I'm excited to continue innovating. It also represents the power of innovation in the classroom. I believe in using technology to enhance learning, and I'm honored to be recognized for those efforts."
Lastly, Mr. Bishop gave his final thoughts by saying, "This wouldn't be possible without the amazing team around me. From my fellow teachers to my administrators, I'm surrounded by people who are dedicated to student success."
We are proud to have Charlie Bishop working for Dixon Public Schools and are excited to see what comes from his future endeavors.
