Will Thayer recipient of The Barrett Family Foundation award
Source/Author: Raffi Darrow, Ebytes Editor
September 29, 2017
Congratulations to Upper School Mathematics Department Chair Will Thayer for receiving an Excellence in Science/Mathematics Teacher Award from The Barrett Family Foundation. Mr. Thayer teaches math at Shorecrest and online through the Hybrid Learning Consortium, of which Shorecrest is a member.
Recipients of a Barrett Family Foundation award must be nominated by the school Head, submit an application representing a history of teaching math, and evidence of technology use in the classroom. They must also include a recommendation letter from the Headmaster, a colleague and a student. Finally, applicants must create a video showcasing their innovative teaching.
“Will Thayer is modeling for math teachers the future of mathematics instruction.” Headmaster Mike Murphy said when recommending Mr. Thayer. “Will understands that different students will learn in different ways. He has high standards but recognizes there are a variety of ways to achieve the standard of excellence.”
In addition to his math department responsibilities, Mr. Thayer is the faculty sponsor for Shorecrest’s chapter of Mu Alpha Theta - an Honor Society that holds monthly math competitions second semester. He serves as a faculty voice on the Shorecrest Honor Council, and also makes a point of visiting Lower School once each month with his advisory for math games with younger Chargers.
In his student recommendation, Hunter Holland ‘18 said, “None of us have ever had a math class experience like this, where the classroom is quite literally accessible at home, a totally new and weirdly wonderful experience, and it’s all been made possible with Mr. Thayer’s unwavering dedication to his students.”
“I feel delighted to have won this award.” Thayer proclaimed. “I grew up in a family of teachers and have always been inspired by my parents. There are so many other great teachers in the area that I feel very fortunate to have won. I love teaching young people about math, but also about how to be a person of character, so being recognized for my efforts is very rewarding. Recognition is certainly not the reason that I teach, but I thank the Barrett Family Foundation for putting in the time and money to acknowledge excellence teaching.”
For his dedication and innovation in teaching the past 10 years, Mr. Thayer will receive a $10,000 check at an awards ceremony on October 21.
