BY DARRELL HALEN
When Woodbury Middle School Principal Maura Palmer announced to an assembly of eighth-graders that music teacher Pat Moeschen had been chosen as the 2007 Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year, the students responded with an enthusiastic standing ovation.
“You guys, the students, make me have a good time in school,” said Moeschen, who said he was flattered to receive the honor. “You guys allow me to have fun in my classes, you keep things interesting, and we have a great time.”
The surprise announcement was made on Thursday, Oct. 18, in the school’s gymnasium.
Palmer called Moeschen an innovative and committed educator who goes above and beyond his basic responsibilities. He truly cares about his students, is dedicated to helping each one achieve their potential, and teaches with a personality and a sense of humor that is second to none, she said.
She also said that his leadership as a community spokesman for muscular dystrophy research has gained him respect. Moeschen, who uses a wheelchair, has Becker’s Muscular Dystrophy.
“He is honest, reflective, and has the ability to look at the bright side of difficult situations,” Palmer said.
Moeschen was chosen as the local Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year last spring. He was nominated by eighth-grader Donnie Dortona, who was a clarinet player in the sixth-grade band.
“He’s always funny and I always looked forward to seeing him,” Donnie said after the assembly.
Moeschen received several gifts, including a one-year membership to Phi Delta Kappa International, a professional education association and a partner in the Teacher of the Year program.
In his honor, the school received a $10,000 grant from the Wal-Mart Foundation.
State Rep. Mary Griffin presented citations from Gov. John Lynch and from the state House of Representatives.
State Sen. Michael Downing presented a proclamation from the state Senate recognizing Moeschen’s achievement. Downing said Moeschen is an inspiration to others and should be commended for having a positive impact on children.
Moeschen’s mother, Helen, a Salem resident, attended the award ceremony. So, too, did Moeschen’s sister, Sheila, who drove up from Waltham, Mass.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” she said after the event.
This is the 12th year of the annual Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club State Teacher of the Year program. Since 1995, the companies have honored nearly 30,000 teachers and donated more than $22 million to schools throughout the United States.
As a state winner, Moeschen is a contender for the national Teacher of the Year Award.