Story by Bridget Ton and Yasir Khaleq, Staff Writers
Video by Corey Nguyen, Baron Broadcast News
On Wednesday, Oct. 7, Fountain Valley High School Chemistry and Chemistry in the Community teacher Jake Lee earns the Rookie Teacher of the Year award from the Huntington Beach Union High School District for being a role model to his students, and for his outstanding work stretching far beyond the classroom.
The Rookie of the Year is presented by the district office to congratulate one special teacher who has been teaching in the HBUHSD for one year.
“I believe I was pretty much focusing on caring about the students. I think that’s what the district actually values in me”, said Lee.
Lee went to University of California Davis with a chemistry bachelor’s degree and University of California Irvine to earn his Masters in Education. Last year, he started his first year of teaching at FVHS.
Lee believes that there is a difference between a teacher and an educator. He considers himself an educator.
“A teacher is somebody who’s primary job is to transfer the knowledge.” stated Lee. “As an educator, I am more going for overall well-being…”
Lee not only focused on teaching state standards for chemistry, but also on establishing a strong relationship with his students. Lee wants his students to hit the requirements and be social well-beings with good citizenship.
Not only does Lee teach chemistry, he loves to spend his free time by going to school events. He has been to at least one game for each sport and tries to attend social events like annual dances and theater shows.
“I try to go to at least one event per sport to cheer on my students…you guys can find me on the field, cause I’m very loud, obviously”, said Lee.
Not only is Lee a teacher, he is also a father figure to many students, supporting them at their games and extracurricular activities.
“What I’ve realized, a lot of students, they don’t have any parents or adults going out after them,” said Lee. “I figured students really love it when they have adults cheering for them. It really actually means a lot to them“, said Lee.
Lee, who is in love with FVHS, has high hopes for his teaching career here.
“I love this place. Honestly, this is my third school I’m teaching, and out of the schools I’ve been to this is by far the best,” said Lee. “We have really great students, also we have a great faculty…I can already tell you I will retire at this school”, said Lee
