The day I dreaded had finally arrived, the start of junior high school had begun and the start of yet another year of math had found its way back to me. As I dropped into my desk I thought to myself here begins another year of algebra. But this year was different, Mr.Baack walked in with Suns attire on. From that moment I knew this year would be terrific.

His teaching style was unorthodox, he used sports to teach. One example is when we were learning about stem and leaf plots. He used Amare Stoudimires statistics to teach us the lesson. And in my opinion, it was a great way to teach. He not only taught me how to multiply exponents, but he also taught me how to shoot a basketball like Kobe Bryant , and also to elevate my game to a level that could not be reached by others. He believed in me, and I believed in him. He really changed my life into a positive one.

One of his best characteristics was that he spoke his mind. He told us how it was in the real world. He told us you had to work to get the things you wanted and he was right. And I respect him for speaking the truth with us. Other teachers are just there to teach, but with his class it was like we all were a giant family.

To me and to the other students in my class, Mr.Baack was the best teacher ever. He passes on life lessons that he has learned. And he knows how to have a good time. He is a spectacular person and that is why I am nominating Mr.Baack for Educator of the Year.