Fatheree, Students Discuss Global Teacher Recognition (UPDATED W/PHOTOS, AUDIO)

He's been the Illinois Teacher of the Year, he's received the National Education Association's National Award for Teaching Excellence, now he's on the shortlist for the Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize for 2016.

(JOE FATHEREE)

But when Joe Fatheree is asked, "Why do you stay here?", he answers, "Why would I go anyplace else?"

Fatheree discussed his teaching career and his nomination for the Global Teacher Prize during a press conference Friday afternoon at Effingham High School. He shared some, but also let his students share their perspective on the recognition.

Here's News Director Greg Sapp's conversation with Joe Fatheree at Friday's event...

(EHS STUDENT SHAUNA SLOAN)

As is typical for the almost 30-year career teacher, Fatheree told his students about the press conference and let them set it up. They responded well, with several armed with brief speeches they wrote, video evidence of some of the work Fatheree's Multi Media class has produced, and...oh yes...cookies.

(EHS STUDENT JOE NIEMAN)

When it was time for the students to share their thoughts, several touched on the difference Fatheree has made in their lives, a difference far beyond learning some skills. Miguel Garcia shared, "If it wasn't for Joe Fatheree, I wouldn't be up here." Joe Nieman noted that there isn't a gulf between students and teachers, instead, he said, "we collaborate". He said Fatheree helped him "conquer his fears". He mentioned Fatheree told him to "set your bar high", "go at it with all you can", and "don't be afraid". Shauna Sloan said she has her heart set on a career in musical entertainment. Sloan said while others were indifferent to or negative about her plans, Fatheree told her that not only could she do it, but said it would be easy with the right mindset. She said she sees that "same enthusiasm every day" from Fatheree, and says that when she walks through the school, rather than seeing students, she sees "endless potential". Tucker Denton said the things students learn at EHS, they use there, but also once they're out of the classroom each day. C.J. Schmidt said Fatheree and CEO Program founding teacher Craig Lindvahl are "inspirers" to him. He thanked Fatheree for being a coach, a mentor, and "an awesome teacher".

A conversation between Greg Sapp and EHS students Joe Nieman and Tucker Denton about Joe Fatheree and their learning experience at EHS...

Student Jessica Quicksall served as emcee for the event, and spoke about the encouragement on her songwriting career she's received from Fatheree.

(EHS STUDENT MIGUEL GARCIA)

Also addressing the press conference were EHS Principal Jason Fox and Unit 40 Superintendent Mark Doan. Fox said he's worked with Fatheree for 17 years and said it was an honor to recognize him on making the Global Teaching shortlist. He said the award is about recognition for a job well done, but also for "the role model (Fatheree) is to staff and students. Doan said the district provides opportunities for all kids Grades K-12. He noted that some of the students who spoke Friday were also influenced by their kindergarten teachers, grade school teachers and junior high teachers. He also thanked the business community for the support they've provided to Multi Media, CEO and other school programs.

Greg also spoke with EHS student Shauna Sloan about how she's come out of her shell in her years at the high school...

(EHS STUDENT CHIPMAN "C.J." SCHMIDT)

For his part, Fatheree also spoke, saying, "I have the most incredible job in the world", noting he teaches doctors, lawyers, scientists, farmers, those who might cure cancer, and achieve other great things. He encouraged the same collaborative attitude seen at EHS to reach and exceed goals in the global arena, including conflict resolution. As to those who only practice negativism, Fatheree said, "how can we find fault with those who are trying to do the right thing?"

As to the process of determining the winner of the Global Teaching Award, Fatheree said a film crew will come here in early January to document what's happening in Fatheree's classes. In February, the Top 10 finalists will be announced. In March, the 10 finalists will go to Dubai where they'll announce the winner.

(EHS STUDENT TUCKER DENTON)

Fatheree said Sonny Varkey, who created the prize, is willing to commit large amounts of funding in support of education. He also spoke highly of Effingham, mentioning to anyone considering locating here or moving their business here, "This is your landing place."