Sumter Career and Tech's Gass wins December Morris College High School Teacher of the Month contest

STAFF REPORT

Frederick Gass, a firefighting instructor at Sumter Career and Technology Center, won the December High School Teacher of the Month contest. Presented by Morris College, and similar to a previous educator-focused contest Morris College also facilitated through the newspaper, the public is asked to nominate their favorite high school teachers in Sumter's public and private schools. After the nomination period, the public votes between finalists determined by The Sumter Item staff. The winner receives a $50 gift certificate to a local business, a certificate and swag from Morris College.

Frederick Gass - Sumter Career and Technology Center

"Mr. Gass came out of retirement to teach firefighting. He has made a tremendous impact on the students who not only see him as an instructor, but also a mentor. Mr. Gass' 'old school approach' brings a mixture of education and genuine parental concern."

"Mr. Gass has made a huge impact on his students since becoming the fire instructor at Sumter High. Mr. Gass goes above and beyond to get to know his students by talking with them and taking the extra time to meet each student's needs individually. Mr. Gass does a great job keeping the students engaged, and they are eager to learn with him."

"This is Mr. Gass' first year teaching, and he has made such an impact on the kids. He has used his years of experience to guide and make sure his students achieve the same success. He's the most loving and humble man on the earth!"