Poly athletic director Rob Shock was presented the LA Lakers February 2014 Educator of the Month Award on Sunday February 21. Shock was presented the award during the halftime show of the Lakers home game against the Brooklyn Nets. Shock was nominated for this award by Nailah Waterfield, a Poly graduate and one of Shock’s students, when he taught at Poly.
When talking about the award, Shock said, “I feel honored. To be recognized is always appreciated. It’s a pat on the back.”
His colleagues also have many appreciative things to say about Shock.
“This award validates what he’s already doing,” said assistant principal Guillermo Jimenez.
Jimenez said one of Shock’s prominent qualities is his student centered approach to working with kids, or tackling any problems with kids.”
Shock also said a main reason for the nomination is his ongoing involvement in the Link Crew and Poly North programs.
This is not the first recognition award that Shock has earned. Shock previously earned an award for Gladstone’s Teacher of the Year. Despite getting previous recognition awards, Shock said this one was unique because he gets to be recognized in front of all the Lakers fans.
All of the work that Shock puts into Poly is for the benefit of the school as a whole: “I don’t do it for the recognition. I do it because I love Poly.”
Shock also thanks his family for allowing him to keep a demanding job, because it takes time away from his family.
“I am thankful for having a supportive family, especially my wife, and making all the sacrifices that she does,” said Shock.
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