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Teacher garners history award
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Published: July 1, 2009
Stephen Suther's interest in history began as a little boy when he learned about the Civil War.
His passion has lasted a lifetime, and for more than 35 years it has been part of his career.
The Troutman resident is a U.S. History teacher at West Rowan High School. His students are not the only ones who appreciate his love for teaching history.
Suther has been named the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution's 2009 Outstanding Teacher of American History.
"It was a big surprise," he said. "It's still sinking in."
He and his family will travel to Washington, D.C., to accept the award July 11.
It is nice to be honored, but he can't help but think of "other deserving teachers" who are worthy of the recognition, Suther said.
"You wish others could be recognized because they ought to be."
Suther has taught at West Rowan High for 11 years. Prior to that, he taught in Iredell County for more than 25 years.
This may be Suther's first national award, but it is not his first recognition. He has won a teacher of the year award four times.
To be considered in the DAR contest, Suther was asked by a friend to put together a packet detailing his years as an educator.
His entry included letters of recommendation from colleagues and students, stories about some of his former students, and more.
Suther was hesitant about throwing his hat in the ring and only did it because he was asked to by a good friend.
He gained a love for history as a young boy when he and his mother would travel to various historical sites. Trips to historical sites across the nation have continued into his adulthood. Proof of his travels are evident in the mounds of pictures and slides he shows to his classes.
When his students finish his course, he wants them to not only have had fun learning about history but to develop an appreciation for it.
"I want them to come out liking history and (knowing) that history is not boring but real people with real problems," he said.
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