On Monday, May 4th, social studies teacher Mr. Tony Miller learned that he was selected by FCPS to receive the Charles E. Tressler Distinguished Teaching Award, sponsored by Hood College.

Named for a former member of the Hood College faculty who encouraged young people to enter the profession of teaching, the Charles E. Tressler Distinguished Teacher Award is presented annually to honor distinguished teaching in the Frederick County public school system. Nominations are taken from current and former students, teachers and support staff, parents, community members and administrators and supervisors.

Mr. Aaron Burch, social studies chairperson, nominated Miller, and he was assisted by several staff members in preparing the nomination, with supporting nomination letters from former students.

“I learned from him that we must rely on ourselves to pick us up when we are down, and that is possible only through the belief that we can do it, the belief that we are strong, the belief that it is worth continuing on. This belief carries us through life, and should it falter, so will we,”said Kate Russo, graduate and  former member of LHS’s field hockey team.

Another alumna Sarah Ward said, “Mr. Miller touched my life not only through being an excellent teacher, but by being a kind and genuine person. I count myself incredibly lucky to have been in his class and hope all students get to have at least one Mr. Miller in their life.”

Followed by balloons, students, teachers, and a marching band, Deputy Superintendent, Michael Markoe, paraded through the halls on this way to present Miller with the award.

Miller said, “At first, I had no idea what was going on when I heard the band and saw everyone filing in to my room. My second thought was that it was my second heart attack coming on.”

Miller has spent his entire teaching career since 1979 at Linganore High. He has taught every social studies class for every grade level. Currently, he teaches AP Psychology, AP US History, and  American Studies II (Honors).

Hood College will formally present Mr. Miller the award during its graduate school commencement on May 16.