Recipient's Name:  Stephen Jacobi

School:  Holy Spirit School

Grade: 6

Number of Years Teaching: 18

• Stephen Jacobi has been teaching for 18 years.  He enjoys teaching grade sixes at Holy Spirit School.

Steve likes to have fun with his students every day.  He enjoys being with them and believes that they keep him young.  He greets them each morning knowing that some of them do not get this at home.  He seeks to let them know that he cares for them by putting a hand on their shoulder, finding out how things are going in their lives, keeping them safe, respecting them and helping them respect themselves.  He does not raise his voice but just talks to them.  Steve said, "They know me and I know them.  We all know how the class will work well."

Steve said that his parents did not encourage him and he didn't think that he was smart enough to go to university. He started working and realized that he did not like his job.  He reflected and realized that the only thing he really liked in his life was his fabulous high school geography teacher.  He chose to go to university and become a teacher. Today he says that he knows each day that he totally enjoys working with kids, encouraging them, rewarding them and helping them give their best. 

Steve was nominated by Mrs. Fernandes.  He has taught all three of her children.  She wrote:

Mr. Jacobi is an amazing teacher.  His patience with the kids is so outstanding.  He has never raised his voice to anyone and continues to compliment and find the good in all students.  My oldest daughter improved incredibly in his class.  My son wanted to do the best he could for Mr. Jacobi.  Our youngest daughter is low academically.  Mr. Jacobi has given her the supports she needs to do her best and better.  We are amazed at what changes she has gone through being in his class.  She is a quiet girl who lacked self confidence, but Steve has a way to bring out the best in her and has instilled confidence in her like we have been unsuccessful in doing. 

Mr. Jacobi spends lunch and recess breaks giving extra help. His students come first.  No matter what the outcome his words are always positive.  Students seem to listen to his every word.  He listens to what they have to say and he makes students want to learn.  He never tires of their stories and he shares his life with them. He is the perfect example of what a good teacher should be.