Deep Creek Elementary Physical Education and STEM teacher Brent Driessen is going to the Military Bowl in Annapolis today.
The retired marine was one of 10 educators in the Maryland/Virginia region to be named a winner for the “Extra Yard for Teachers” award presented by the Military Bowl Foundation and the College Football Foundation.
For that honor, Driessen will receive grants for his classroom and will be honored on the field at halftime of the Military Bowl.
“I am extremely honored and humbled to be invited to the field for the military bowl,” he said.
One of the reasons why Driessen was honored was for helping children in disadvantaged environments. He explained that all children should have the opportunity to learn regardless of their backgrounds and circumstances.
“Every child can learn with appropriate resources and opportunities. The bottom line is children need hope,” Driessen told Eastcountytimes.com.
“Deep Creek Elementary is trying to really enhance our STEM program to provide students with hands on learning opportunities for the 21st century and beyond.”
Driessen’s grant money will go towards enhancing the STEM program at Deep Creek Elementary School. Driessen has been at the school for a decade and says it is a great environment.
“I love working with the staff, community, and their children. We all come together for the simple cause of helping children reach their fullest potential academically, socially and emotionally,” he said.
Driessen served in the Marines for eight years and he currently has a son serving. According to Driessen, his time in the Marines was the proudest accomplishment of his life.
“I was proud to be able to serve my country as a United States Marine. I have several advanced degrees; however, the Marine Corps instilled in me the necessary intangible traits to succeed in life.”
The game is scheduled for today, Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. It is being televised on ESPN.
