Congratulations to our latest teacher of the week, Mr. Ortiz from Welsh Elementary School in Rockford. Who got to spend time on the court with a harlem Globetrotter.

Teacher of the Week: Mr. Ortiz from Welsh Elementary School
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Mr. Ortiz was treated to beautiful flowers from Broadway Florist and delicious cupcakes from Sugar Jones in front of the entire school. As a special bonus, Buckets Blakes from the Harlem Globetrotters was in the house to deliver a message to all the students on the 'ABCs of Bullying.' One thing Buckets said during his presentation really stood out and I will share that in a moment, but first take a look at Mr. Ortiz' nomination.

The winning nomination says:

Mr. Ortiz is an awesome teacher. He lets us know when they are doing new things, and he also takes the time to message us with questions and comments before he assumes the worst. He has actually gone above and beyond to help my son to get where he needs to be. Mr. Ortiz has gone above and beyond to care for his students like his own. Any issues at all during the school day are resolved very fast as well. I have donated some books to the classroom to help enrich these childrens lives. Mr. Ortiz is the first teacher that my son has genuinely payed attention to. I appreciate everything he does to make my child succeed.

Every year, a couple weeks before their annual game, a player from the Harlem Globetrotters comes to town to get everyone fired up for the game. For the second year in a row, Buckets Blakes was that player. He is a consummate professional and also an amazing basketball player (that last part should go without saying). During his talk about the ABCs of Bullying, he said one thing that I keep hearing over and over in my head.

Bullies want to take the power of happiness away from you. Never let them steal your joy. Walk away with a smile on your face.

Joy is my favorite word and I don't ever want someone to take that from me. Tell your kids what Buckets said.

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