Ott, Barkley receive September MVP Awards

Congratulations to the September recipients of the Most Valuable Patriot (MVP) award, special education teacher Michael Ott, and BPES crisis support teaching assistant Sarah Barkley!

Michael Ott, BPHS special education teacher

Michael Ott, a 2005 B-P graduate, has worked at his alma mater for 12 years. In addition to his job as a special education teacher, Ott is also co-director of the junior/senior high school drama club. 

Ott's nomination read, in part "Mr.Ott's friendliness make it very easy to trust and talk to him while also showing he wants us to succeed not only in high school but with all things in life. Mr.Ott is the kind of teacher you want in a school because no matter the kid he always shows them kindness and will try to improve their mood while also supporting them"

Ott said he was honored to be nominated for this award.

"I was very fortunate to have positive experiences here at B-P as a 2005 graduate and I just consider myself lucky now to be able to try and give students the same opportunities that I had. That was thanks to a lot of the same teachers I had who I now get to work with," Ott said. "I really enjoy being able to give kids those same opportunities I had and push them to succeed and bring out the best in them."

Sarah Barkley, BPES crisis support teaching assistant

Sarah Barkley is in her second year as a crisis support teaching assistant at B-P Elementary School. She also subs when needed at all grade levels.

Barkley’s nomination for the MVP award came from a parent who observed her leading a group of young children outside at the end of the school day. “As they were going out the front door, she was so kind and handling them all amazing, even while a couple were crying. I feel like she handles it all so amazingly, as well as getting the older kids out the door when their parents are there for pick up. I know it's just the start of the year, but you definitely have a great person doing a little of everything!!"

"I always believed that if my smile can bring out someone else’s joy then that is what I will try to do each and every day." Barkley said "Making the children I am around smile, makes my heart full. There’s no greater accomplishment than to see them happy."

Each month, two district employees are recognized through Broadalbin-Perth's MVP program. Each winner receives a B-P Yeti mug. Nominations can come from any member of the school community and all nominations should be submitted online. The deadline to nominate a B-P employee for the October MVP award is Monday, Oct. 7.