Canaan Petersen was the recipient of the Eagle Award on Tuesday after being named the most inspirational teacher of Boulder City High School for the 2014-15 school year.
Petersen received the most votes from the entire student body. Some wrote additional comments to their selection, and Principal Amy Wagner said several students wrote more than a page to show how much their teachers meant to them.
“This year, more than any other year I’ve ever seen, the kids really looked at what you meant to them,” she said as she addressed her staff. “That’s what I love about this staff. I feel like it’s a family.”
Petersen, who teaches social studies and film studies, and coaches both cross-country teams, was thankful for winning the award as voted by his students.
“I’m really honored. We’ve got some great kids here, and for them to recognize me as the most inspirational teacher is truly touching,” he said. “I really appreciate the fact that they took the time to write it down.”
Petersen said he was also glad that students enjoyed coming to school every day instead of just having to show up.
“It’s what I think education should be about. It’s not always about subjects, it’s about making sure these kids have a safe place to learn where they feel comfortable,” he said.
Jim Cox and Leslie Ringen were runners-up for the award.
“All of you in this room are heroes to a bunch of people,” Wagner told her staff. “Your legacy lives on through them.”
Contact reporter Steven Slivka at sslivka@bouldercityreview.com or 702-586-9401. Follow him on Twitter @StevenSlivka.