Lundin recognized as a leader
by Marlo Benning
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| Encouragement from the sidelines-Besides teaching special education at Eagle Valley, Mark Lundin is the junior varsity boys basketball coach. |
Kelly Camacho has seen firsthand how co-worker Mark Lundin motivates those around him at Eagle Valley High School.
This is just one of the reasons that she recently nominated him for an award through Mid-Minnesota United that recognizes teachers for their leadership qualities.
MMU is an intermediate organization of Education Minnesota. This is the second year that they've given this "Local Leader of the Year" award.
Giving this award out to deserving educators is MMU's way of honoring leaders who work so hard for their locals, said Jan Lichy of MMU.
The reasons Camacho felt Lundin was deserving of this award is because of the many good things he has done for the school, such as peer tutors, re-organizing the sports boosters so great concessions could be offered at games, getting more students involved in activities and helping with grade checks every couple of weeks.
Lundin has been involved in education for 22 years. This is year number three at Eagle Valley, where he is a special education teacher and the junior varsity boys basketball coach. He has his elementary license and a special education license in the area of emotionally behaviorally disturbed. He holds a Masters Degree in special education, as well. In addition, he recently received an administration degree which would allow him to become a school leader in the capacity of principal or future superintendent.
"As a leader he is fair and very good at getting everyone involved. He is a team player and gets everyone going on the team. As a coach he goes beyond the games and cares about players' grades too. As a teacher he does what needs to be done to get the students to be successful," Camacho noted.
Lundin was scheduled to receive his award at an event held a couple of weeks ago, but he made the choice not to attend because of the dedication he has for his basketball team.
"The reason I could not attend was because I had a basketball game that night and my team was still undefeated. I always preach commitment to my players, so I thought I would be talking out of the side of my mouth if I didn't show up," Lundin said.
Another co-worker, Barb Weishair, feels that Lundin is very deserving of this award.
"Mr. Lundin puts the students first. The kids respect him, whether it's at lunch, in the hallway, in the classroom or on the basketball court. He has a passion for kids. He is happy to volunteer much of his time in order to make a difference in the kids' lives. His level of enthusiasm and drive are over the top. He commits 110% of himself to his passion," said Weishair.
Both Camacho and Weishair recognize the contagious positive vibes that he sends out to those around him.
"He wants the students of Eagle Valley to care about their school and the image they project. He wants the best for all of us at Eagle Valley," said Camacho.
marlo@inhnews.com