On March 13th, Mr. Sullivan was announced to be the 2024 teacher of the year. In his time here at Marriotts Ridge, Sullivan has made a sizable impact on his students and the award comes as no surprise.
The senior teacher of the year is voted on by the senior class and is typically a teacher whom the students regard to be an outstanding educator. This teacher then gives a speech at graduation, addressing the graduating class.
Many of Mr. Sullivan’s students consider him to be funny, wise, personable and caring. During their time as Mustangs, many of this year’s graduates have had Mr. Sullivan for multiple different classes over the years. Through his English, Yearbook and Journalism classes, Mr. Sullivan has watched a large number of these students grow.
“I think that Mr. Sullivan is the teacher that I have the best relationship with; I’ve had him for three years, and I think I’ve had the most fun with him as a teacher and I’ve learned a lot [from him],” senior Zach Vernick explained.
Mr. Sullivan has had a significant impact on his students on both an academic and personal level. His initiative to set his students up for success has left a mark on them, which is why many of them chose him for senior teacher of the year.
“I voted for Mr. Sullivan because a good teacher does more than go through the motions; he truly cares about his students and their education,” senior Jackson Komin stated.
He has always had an open door for his students, offering to edit papers, a place to eat lunch, or just someone to talk to. He treats his students uniquely as he isn’t shy to get to know them and ask questions about their lives.
“I think his friendliness and the way he gets to know his students [is what makes him different from other teachers]. He’s not afraid to share information, and it’s easy to discuss deeper topics that aren’t just surface level. He’s very open with his students, and I think that makes him an amazing teacher,” Vernick described.
The majority of students who have had Mr. Sullivan over the years preach how understanding and empathetic he is towards them.
“He’s a really good teacher and he really cares about his students and likes to see them succeed. He actually tries to get to know his students and cares about their well-being, while still understanding that we’re still teenagers and kids and sometimes we need a break,” senior Brynne Mellady mentioned.
Mr. Sullivan had been kept in the dark about his win prior to March 13th. Many students who knew of his win deceived him for days. He was surprised by a multitude of his students and class council members bringing him a banner and gifts during the half day’s break time.
“Receiving the award made me smile, and I was happy to be appreciated by the students,” Mr. Sullivan said.
The senior teacher of the year is meant to be a teacher that the senior class all feel is unique, and for the class of 2024, that is Mr. Sullivan. Many of this year’s graduates are thankful for all that he has done for them over the years and look forward to hearing what he has to say at graduation.