Teacher of the Week: David Beebe

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — Our Teacher of the Week served our country as a marine, and now he serves the community as a seventh grade teacher.

Growing up David Beebe said he struggled with a learning disability.

“I have dyslexia so I didn’t speak real well,” he said.

Mr. Beebe remembers third grade when his lessons were particular tough.

“Classes were hard,” said the history teacher.

To help him work through it he said his teacher at the time would reward him and his classmates with knights and land whenever they received a good grade.

“She actually did a ceremony where the kids knelt down and took a three-foot ruler, and she knighted you,” said Beebe.

This reward system made him feel special, and has struck with him through the years. That life lesson of self-importance is also one he stresses now that he is at the head of the classroom.

“If they don’t feel like they are somebody, then they don’t want to be anybody,” he said.

Eight years ago Mr. Beebe and other teacher started and archery program at Leland Middle School.

“It gives those who are not quite as athletic and don’t go out to play sports something to do and they can find a place in the school where they can join as a group and have fun,” said Beebe.

It isn’t all fun and games for the 50 students who work on their shooting skills after school. If their grades fall below a 77 average, the teachers offer tutoring before they can pick up a bow.

“We tell them that this is a responsibility and if they do well, good things come to those who are responsible,” he said.

The program has come a long way in the nearly decade it has been around. Mr. Beebe said when they first started they were using bulletin board paper and tape to make targets. Last year was they entered into competitions. The team squares off against other schools across the state. This year they are hoping to qualify to compete at the world level.