Teaching may be its own reward for Scott Thannum, but he still appreciates the Outstanding Teacher of American History Award he recently received from the Daughters of the American Revolution Captain Molly Corbin Chapter.
An educator for over 31 years, Scott has taught at Carroll ISD for seven years. An AP and college prep U.S. history teacher for Carroll Senior High School, Scott says he loves teaching history because of the impact it leaves on his students.
“It’s a passion of mine,” Scott says. “So many things happening in this day and age have precedent in the past. Understanding the past helps us to build a better future. That’s my goal for my students — not only knowing history, but putting themselves into the story, finding their own voice and make this country a better place going forward.”
CSHS principal Shawn Duhon recently nominated Scott for DAR’s Outstanding Teacher of American History Award for his teaching, and Scott received letters of recommendation from an administrator, department head and two of his former students for the award. One student wrote that Scott made a personal connection with every student he’s taught, and he acts as a mentor and role model to everyone in his classes, according to MySouthlakeNews.com.
As proud as Scott is to receive the Outstanding Teacher of American History Award, he’s even more proud of the knowledge he’s imparted onto his class.
“It’s about taking care of the kids,” Scott says. “We have only so many hours left on this planet. To know that you’ve left an impression on someone who’s gonna live on longer than you is kind of an awesome feeling. I teach the past, but I get to touch the future.”
Scott will be presented the recognition during an awards banquet in April. To learn more about DAR, visit DAR.org.