Bellwood-Antis world cultures teacher Mr. Gary Rhone was recently named Altoona Curve Teacher of the Year presented by 1st Summit Bank.
He was recognized with a special assembly to acknowledge the achievement last week.
Mr. Rhone was honored to be nominated for this award, and accepted it with humility.
“I just hope it brings attention to all the good teachers we have here at Bellwood,” said Mr. Rhone. “They are all deserving of praise.”
Nominations for the award were accepted through March and all students throughout Curve Country.
All nominated teachers were then recognized at PNG field on April 27. Winners received $100 and gifts from the Curve and 1st Summit Bank.
Mr. Rhone never made his award common knowledge at work, so it could have easily flown under the radar. However, Bellwood Antis hosted representatives from 1st Summit Bank and the Curve on May 1 to surprise Mr. Rhone and recognize him in front of his 10th grade students.
“I was not aware of Mr. Rhone receiving this award until the Curve contacted me saying they would like to come and recognize him in front of the school as well,” said high school principal Mr. Richard Schreier. “We made sure all of the 10th graders were able to attend his award ceremony since he is always loved by his students.”
Donald Yeager; the Senior Vice President from 1st Summit Bank, Annie Choiniere; head of Curve Media from the Altoona Curve, and the mascot Loco from the Altoona Curve all came to Bellwood to present Mr. Rhone his award.
