Brownwood Middle School recognized physical education teacher and coach, Judy Kennedy, in its annual “Joan Stewart Point of Light” ceremony on Wednesday, May 7th. The award honors a teacher who portrays the type of excellence in education and life examples that characterized Joan Stewart’s life and teaching career.
In 2005, the science wing of Brownwood Middle School was named the “Joan Stewart Science Hall,” in a dedication program honoring her as an outstanding educator. Stewart was described in a letter to the BISD Board of Trustees as, “…an outstanding teacher at Brownwood Jr. High/Middle School for 29 years imparting not only science knowledge; but even more importantly, she was an outstanding role model to her students in word and deed. Joan was also an outstanding leader beyond the classroom in her faith, her family and her hobbies. In a world that desperately needs heroes, it is truly right and proper to honor Joan Stewart for the out-of-the-ordinary everyday hero she was.”
Kennedy’s name was added to the “Point of Light” plaque that is displayed in the BMS Main office, and a book will be added to the library in her honor. In addition, Kennedy received a lamp to symbolize the “light” she has been in the lives of those around her.
“Coach Kennedy has guided me and shaped me into the teacher and coach I am today. She is compassionate, caring, and willing to help out in any way,” said fellow BMS teacher Carolyn Day, who was actually coached by Kennedy as a student. “She will push you as an athlete and love you as a friend. She will never give up on you.”
The ceremony included remarks from Day, and BMS Digital Media Specialist, DaLin Cummings, who also praised Kennedy through a pre-recorded video that was presented due to her absence as she undergoes cancer treatment.
“She’s a great sports coach,” stated Cummings who was also once taught and coached by Kennedy. “But I would have to say she’s an even better life coach.”
“When I came back to Brownwood, especially when I came over to the middle school to work, I got to see first-hand that she’s still doing what she does best, and that is guiding students, no matter what age they are, in learning how to be better people,” said Cummings.
Kennedy was given the podium after receiving the award. “First of all, I’d like to thank the BMS faculty and staff, and the community for making me the 2014 point of light,” stated Kennedy. “I want to say thank you to my family for always being a point of light for me. My mom and dad made me who I am today. When I was a little girl I was taught respect. I was taught to whom much is given, much is expected. We were taught to work, and when the work was done, that’s when we had our fun. I’m really proud of my parents for raising me the way that they did.”
Kennedy also took the opportunity to acknowledge the support of her co-workers. “I really want to recognize my coaching staff,” said Kennedy. “These guys are the best.”
The family of Joan Stewart presented the award to Kennedy who will be added to the list of previous honorees that includes Ann Costa (2013), Diana Mullins (2012), Mal Aaron (2011), Carolyn Brandenburg (2010), Damon Bagley (2009), Shirley Teague (2008), Nancy Blackstock (2007), and Elizabeth Miller (2006).
At top: Mary Woodcox (left), sister of Joan Stewart, poses with Judy Kennedy, the 2014 Point of Light honoree at Brownwood Middle School.
Pictured above: Judy Kennedy poses with previous Point of Light honorees. (Left to Right) Nancy Blackstock (2007), Ann Costa (2013), Judy Kennedy (2014), Mal Aaron (2011), Diana Mullins (2012), and Carolyn Brandenburg (2010).
