Chapman wins “Bobs’ Award”

The Bobs have done it again. And Mary Chapman is their recipient.

Chapman, an English teacher at Free State High School, was this morning awarded with the “Bobs’ Award” of $10,000, the annual teachers’ award created through the Lawrence Schools Foundation.

The award was created by a group of Lawrence civic leaders who share the first name, Bob, but otherwise choose to remain anonymous.

Chapman has taught English for 21 years – 10 at West Junior High, two years at Lawrence High School and nine years at Free State High School.

The foundation’s Bobs’ Award honors a teacher who “exemplifies extraordinary instruction skills; reflects commitment to quality education and dedication to teaching; focuses on individual student achievement; administers to the whole child, guiding each student to achieve his full potential; and is deemed to be proficient, caring adaptable and professional.”

“I have taught with Mary for 20 years, and she is the hardest working educator I have ever encountered,” said Phyllis Copt, a Free State English teacher. “She develops inspiring ideas, makes fascinating connections and shares her brilliance generously.”