When asked about teaching during a pandemic, Cash said…it has been interesting.

“It has presented obstacles and opportunities,” said Cash. “We have to follow all the guidelines, but at the same time it has allowed us the opportunity to explore more technology. It has allowed us to go more paperless. It’s allowed the students to have more independence with their work.”

While much has had to change this school year, Cash believes he knows who deserves the credit for making it work.

“The students have adjusted very quickly,” Cash said. “I have to brag on them. They are the real Most Valuable Players here on this team. They’ve adapted very well. They’ve done everything I’ve asked them to do. They’ve taken it all in stride.”

With some students remote learning, whether by choice or necessity, it changes the equation for the teachers as far as what they cover and how they do it.

“You want everybody to have an equal education, whether you’re there or not,” Cash said. “You want to be treated the same. You want to be held to the same high standards. You still want to belong in that classroom. Whether it’s remote or whether it’s in person, I want my classroom to have a sense of belonging.”

In her nomination, Sandy Tinsley had this to say. “Until this year, I have been a regular sub at Rome School as an aide or teacher. I had the privilege to work with many of the outstanding teachers at Rome Grade. During that time, I was so impressed by Mr. Cash. He shows such respect for each student. His standards are high. He really wants the students to work hard, be proud of their accomplishments and be prepared for high school.”

If you know of a Most Valuable Teacher, let us know. You can nominate a Most Valuable Teacher here.