Michael Lurenz, an English teacher at Maine-Endwell High School, was honored in the Barnes and Noble “My Favorite Teacher Contest.”
Senior Alan Glowienka wrote a letter nominating Lurenz for the contest which invited students in kindergarten through 12th grade to share how a teacher has influenced their life and why they appreciate and admire them.
Lurenz received third place in the contest.
He and Glowienka were recognized at a ceremony on April 13 at the Barnes & Noble in the Arena Hub Plaza in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
In his letter Glowienka described how Lurenz, his English tutor of more than three years, helped him prepare for and pass the reading and writing exams required for graduation.
“He never gave up on me,” wrote Glowienka, who will graduate in June. “His teaching style made writing fun for me.” He went on to describe how Lurenz drew upon their common interests, such as the New York Yankees, to boost his writing skills.
“I will never forget the time and hard work Mr. Lurenz spent helping me,” wrote Glowienka. “I will have my high school diploma because of his tireless efforts.”