Two Williamsburg teachers recognized by board for, ‘Going the Extra Mile’

Williamsburg teachers Jonathan Wyatt and Jason Smith were recently recognized by the Williamsburg school board for their efforts as they received the, “Going the Extra Mile” Award.

Two Williamsburg Independent School District staff members were awarded “Going the Extra Mile” awards on recently at the board of education’s monthly meeting.

Jonathan Wyatt, the school’s choir director, was the first recipient.

“From the moment we started talking, I could see the passion and excitement that Jonathan had for Williamsburg and the music department,” said Principal Marc Taylor as he reflected on meeting Wyatt for the first time.

“Being an alumnus of Williamsburg and the music program, Jonathan knew the history like no one else,” said Taylor. “It was easy to see who the next choir director needed to be.”

Taylor said that under Wyatt’s direction, the choir program has grown from four members to over 20. In the first semester, Wyatt’s students performed at several concerts, won a contest to open for the rock band Foreigner, attended a musical in Cincinnati, started a new tradition with Hanging of the Green, and performed ‘Christmas in a Small Town.’

The second recipient was Jason Smith, a student advocate for the district.

“He always goes above and beyond and works tirelessly to do what is asked,” said Superintendent Tim Melton.

Smith performs duties, such as making home visits, speaking to parents/families and students, teachers, etc. performing threat assessments, working with the Department for Community Based Services and state police.

“He develops an excellent rapport with everyone with which he works,” said Melton. “Any students who know him, love him. He treats everyone with respect and is always pleasant to be around.”

Both Wyatt and Smith received certificates for their accomplishment.