Presented by Varsity Spirit, Herff Jones and BSN SPORTS, Computer Science teacher Nicholas Copeland is one of four teachers selected for the national Top-Notch Teacher Award.
Nicholas Copeland, a computer science and computer programming teacher at Frenship High School, recently was selected as one of four finalists for the national Top-Notch Teacher Award, presented by Varsity Spirit, Herff Jones and BSN SPORTS, as part of the Varsity Brands 2017 School Spirit Awards.
The Top-Notch Teacher Award honors one teacher who understands that achievement means more than a number in a gradebook by helping students discover their strengths and passions.
Teaching for 10 years at Frenship ISD, Copeland said he was completely shocked when he found out that he was both nominated and selected as a finalist for the award.
“I had heard I was nominated earlier this school year and thought that in itself was quite an honor,” he said. “But this was a national award, so I really figured I would have no chance of being a finalist. It really made me feel good about the things I am doing as a teacher and it motivates me to push myself even further.”
Copeland is an active teacher as he also is an UIL Academics coach, Chess club sponsor and Student Council adviser in addition to teaching computer programming, computer science AP, Computer Science 2 and mobile application development.
When asked what education means to him, he said he couldn’t answer it without write a 10-page paper.
“I think when it all boils down, education is the key to the future,” Copeland said. “As a teacher of technology and leadership, I feel like my job is to provide students with a safe way to learn and experiment with skills they will use for the rest of their lives, regardless of what field they go into.”
The School Spirit Awards celebrates the very best of America’s high schools with 23 categories and over $100,000 in award money to honor students, staff and school organizations that make a positive and lasting impact in their schools and communities.
Frenship High School Assistant Principal Elisha Reese said Copeland is the true definition of a selfless educator.
“Everything he does is for the benefit of the kids at Frenship High School,” she said. “From sponsoring student council, to UIL Academic teams, to creating a Chess club for kids to have a place to belong, he always finds a way to ensure our kids and campus are taken care of.
“He not only has a passion for his subject but he has a compassion for the kids. He is truly one of a kind and there is no one more deserving of this honor. FHS is a better place because of Mr. Copeland.”
