Brownwood Middle School science teacher, Tim Thomas, was honored on Wednesday, May 6, during the school’s annual “Joan Stewart Point of Light” ceremony. 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.
Thomas’ 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 his honor. In addition, Thomas received a lamp to symbolize the “light” he has been in the lives of those around him.
The ceremony included the National Anthem performed by BHS Senior and All-State Choir Member, Albert Nguyen, a slideshow presentation from Melody Smith, and remarks from the BMS faculty led by Terry Cantwell, who also performed the “Point of Light” song.
“When I think of Mr. Thomas, one of the first words that comes to mind is passionate,” stated Cantwell. “He is passionate about teaching (just ask the students about him banging on the white board to make sure they are paying attention). He is passionate about any injustice, he is passionate about politics, and he is passionate about his students. He wants them to succeed. That is the best thing you can say about a teacher.”
From giving fellow staff members rides to the hospital during hard times to helping raise money for a student whose house burned, the remarks painted a picture of a most generous and giving man.
The award and ceremony, named in honor of Joan Stewart, has been an annual event at the school since 2006. 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.”
Woody Woodcox, a former BMS Science teacher and husband of Joan Stewart’s sister, presented the award to Thomas who will be added to the list of previous honorees that include Dalin Cummings (2015), Judy Kennedy (2014), 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).
Pictured above is Thomas. Pictured below are Thomas with his parents, Sherry and Skip Thomas, at the ceremony.
