Rockwood teacher honored with statewide education award

ROCKWOOD, Pa. – Rockwood Area School District teacher Joe Kush was named this year’s Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools Educator of the Year for seventh through 12th grades.

The association said the engineering and technology teacher was selected as a recipient for his “exceptional” work, and described the honor as a “well-deserved accolade.”

“I did not think that I had a chance of winning – no way,” Kush said. “I was astounded.”

When Superintendent Mark Bower announced the news to him before first period, the teacher was gobsmacked by announcement, stating he did not expect to start his day like that.

Kush joked every day since has been like an episode of the science-fiction show “The Twilight Zone,” but he plans to live up to the expectations of the award and not let Bower down.

“I truly appreciate being recognized for all of my extra efforts and the time I have invested with the students,” Kush said.

“Sometimes I get frustrated with all of the extra hours that I work and the added responsibilities that I choose to put on my shoulder, but for me, it’s all worth it.”

The PARSS award was developed to recognize an employee from a member district who makes a positive and continued impact on public education in their community and school.

The rural and small schools group serves as a representative advocacy organization for schools throughout the commonwealth.

Kush is a Richland High School graduate who has been with Rockwood for 16 years and an educator for 22 years.

He began his career as an English teacher, but found he enjoyed problem- solving, hands-on learning and critical thinking more.

That interest was bolstered when he volunteered to build sets for a school musical during his time at Berlin Brothersvalley High School and the reason he went back to school to get his certificate in engineering and technology.

Kush thanked his wife, Heather, for supporting him throughout, adding he couldn’t have achieved any of this without her “love and support.”

Bower described Kush as a passionate teacher who “holds himself and his students to high standards and realistic expectations.”

“He is personable with the students he serves, without compromising his professionalism,” Bower said in his recommendation letter. “He is energetic, animated and hands-on with his students.”

Bower lauded Kush’s understanding of making connections between education, business and industry; his work with the Life Skills students; student involvement in community service; dedication to learners; and more.

“I would be remiss if I did not highlight Joe’s integrity, trustworthiness, morals and values,” the superintendent wrote.

“Joe serves as a role model to not only his students, but also to his peers, school staff and others. His character inspires others to lead meaningful lives with integrity, conviction, optimism, compassion and determination.”

Bower said Kush quickly modernizing Rockwood’s wood shop into a state-of-the-art engineering and technology program after his arrival, and is highly regarded by Rockwood parents and students.

The teacher also serves as an adviser for the district’s Engineering and Technology Club, Community Service programs, class adviser and senior prom.

Kush credits teachers from his school days who challenged him and were personable as inspiration he draws on for his career.

“Good enough was not just good enough for them,” he said. “I take this to heart and daily I ask the Lord to help me be the best that I can be – to be positive and have a can-do attitude and be productive with the time that I have.”

He continued: “Attitude is so important, and when students know that you truly care about their success and them as a person, teaching becomes much more effective.”