At UMFS, we are unwavering champions for high-risk children and families, collaborating with communities to help them reach their full potential. Each month, we name an employee as Unwavering Champion of the Month for going above and beyond in upholding our agency’s mission and values.
We’re pleased to announce our Unwavering Champion for August, George Merryman, Teacher (and Carpenter!) at UMFS Charterhouse School in Edinburg. George was a driving force behind the creation of a school library last year. He and his father put their carpentry skills to use to build the bookshelves, and George worked with colleagues and community partners to gather donations, catalog books, and make the concept a reality. The library is impressive, and you can check it out on the news!
“George is dedicated to providing the best learning experience he can for his students,” said Carol Kelley, a Therapist at CHS Edinburg. “He works hard and often spends his planning periods with students who need extra support. George is willing to go the extra mile to ensure student success.”
George uses creative and engaging teaching strategies and focuses on student interests when designing his lessons. For example, he started a twice-yearly student literary magazine that showcases student writing and artwork.
“George is a welcoming presence every morning to both staff and students and an advocate for his students and the school,” Carol said. “He personifies what it means to be an Unwavering Champion and embodies the UMFS core value of Belonging.”