Job well done

Scott Phillips embraces challenge and teaches his students to do the same.
That philosophy for Aurora’s 7th grade math teacher added up to a distinguished honor last week, with Phillips being recognized as the 2024 Nebraska Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska Department of Education.
Phillips was humbled by the honor, though anyone who has worked with this dynamic young educator knows he is a credit to his profession, as well as his community. He’s the kind of person you want in the classroom, helping middle schoolers find their footing as they navigate the challenging transition from elementary school to high school, while also teaching a subject many find intimidating.
Phillips is not afraid to fail, he shared in an interview featured in this week’s edition, explaining how he uses that philosophy to teach his students not only about math, but life in general.
“That’s kind of why I like teaching math, because it’s an opportunity every single day in little ways for them to kind of deal with that perseverance,” he said. “Everyone wants to get the answer right the first time and when they don’t, how are they going to respond to that?”
Phillips, according to his students, makes learning fun, bringing music and games into his lesson plans. Whether it’s hosting a Pi Bee, a math auction or any of the unique games he uses to challenge his students, the goal is always bigger than learning how to add, subtract, multiply and divide. It’s about building confidence in young people, encouraging them to try new things without worrying about the outcome.
Teaching math is a challenge in and of itself, at any grade level, most would agree. Many students struggle with mathematical concepts and equations, though by all accounts Phillips has found a way to make the subject matter fun while also teaching his young students that math can and will impact their lives in real and meaningful ways.
“I have a passion for teaching middle school kids, but more so I want them to understand that math is not a scary thing and they can walk away knowing that they’re going to use it in their lifetime in whatever it may be,” he said. 
Well said, and so true, Mr. Phillips.
There are no doubt many quality teachers throughout Nebraska, and in fact Scott Phillips is one of many outstanding educators right here at Aurora Public Schools. This Nebraska Department of Education award is a well-deserved feather in his cap and we offer our most sincere congratulations.
Kurt Johnson