97ZOK Teacher of the Week

Is there a teacher in your past that left a mark that never fades? Their voice still guides you in some way. One unique Rockford teacher left that mark on many.

The Teachers You Never Forget

Many of us have at least one teacher from our past that we never forget. What is it that makes them unforgettable? The teacher in this story was remembered in a wonderful letter from a former student. That letter was sent to nominate him for a special honor, an honor we're proud to give him.

Congratulations to 97ZOK's New Teacher of the Week

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Nate Kirschmann from Guilford High School in Rockford Illinois

Mr. Kirschmann was nominated by Emily Manison, she writes,

Remember that class you loved going to because the teacher was super cool? Mr. Kirschmann is that teacher & that's why I'm nominating him for Teacher of the Week!

I'm a Guilford High School alum, who graduated in 2015. Mr. Kirschmann was not only mine but both of my sisters' math teacher. To this day, we still tell stories about him because he's a very memorable person. He made a lasting impact in my life because of the way he taught in the classroom & related to his students, GENUINELY cared about his student's lives, and his passion for educating.

Something that really stuck with me? Mr. Kirschmann would give students the space they needed when they had personal struggles going on at home. He always checked in on me when I needed it the most. So, I thank him for his kindness so many years later.

Don't know if he still does this, but one weird thing Mr. Kirschmann brought to class every day was a thermos with the words "Students Tears" taped on it - but really it was just coffee! He never failed to get a laugh out of the class whenever he drank it haha.

These are just a few of the great things about Kirschmann, but I know other students could tell you so much more! I may not be a student anymore, but life does come full circle. Mr. Kirschmann is now one of my neighbors and if you haven't seen this guy in a cowboy hat and mismatched socks riding his bicycle with his kids downtown, you're in for a real treat.

He's not just a teacher you have for one year and forget about him. He becomes a lifelong friend whether it's on social media or in person. Mr. Kirschmann is very active in the community, extremely hardworking, loves teaching, and is hands down a phenomenal teacher. Nominating him is just a TINY thank you for all he has done & continues to do in education.

As Teacher of the Week, Nate was surprised with a cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes and money to spend at WM Day Spa.

Nominate your favorite teacher for 97ZOK's Teacher of the Week by clicking HERE.