Murray Greenstein did not know what to expect when Ironton High School principal Larry Stall called for all teachers and students to attend a last-minute assembly Wednesday afternoon.

Thursday, June 01, 2000

Murray Greenstein did not know what to expect when Ironton High School principal Larry Stall called for all teachers and students to attend a last-minute assembly Wednesday afternoon. The 26-year veteran social studies teacher especially didn’t expect to be given an award.

"I’m shocked," Greenstein said. "I certainly feel there are a lot of deserving teachers in this school. I’ll take it that I’m a symbol of the dedicated teachers."

Greenstein was presented a plaque naming him "Teacher of the Year" at the special assembly. The award is given each year by the Wal-Mart Foundation to an outstanding teacher for his extraordinary work, commitment to his school and service to his community.

The honoree also receives $500 and a blue vest with "Teacher of the Year" embroidered on it.

Greenstein is a shining example of the quality of the teachers in the Ironton school system, and he deserves this award, Ironton High School principal Larry Stall said.

"I think (he deserves this award) because of what he is able to do academically for the kids," Stall said. "I think there are a lot of kids who respect him. He’s a great guy.

"He’s a guy that has real high expectations of (the students) and they perform for him."

Randa Collins, an Ironton High School sophomore, looks forward to Greenstein’s class each day.

"I think he’s a great teacher – one of my favorites," Miss Collins said. "He wants us to learn and prepare us for college. He’s really inspiring. He’s definitely a role model."

Greenstein just wants the best for his students. And, according to his wife, he knows how to give his students a solid education they will take with them throughout their lives.

"I think (caring about your students) is pretty necessary to be a teacher," Greenstein said. "My wife says, and I think it applies here, ‘the kids don’t care how much they know until they know how much you care.’"

The Wal-Mart Foundation recognizes the achievements of teachers and students throughout the Tri-State with awards and scholarships, said Johnny Johnson, Sam’s Club Spirit Committee co-chair man.

"We do this for our (public relations) and as a way to reach out to our community," Johnson said. "We’re also letting the community know who we are and the types of things they can get from us."