Maybe you’ve met him, or you’ve seen him. But there is no way that you don’t know who he is. He is the Boys Soccer Coach, a Physical Education teacher, and one of FDR’s favorite teachers, Mr. Gottesman!  We are very proud to say that he will be honored with the 2013-2014 “Teacher of the Year” award, by State Senator Marty Golden. As a past student of his, I can definitely agree that he deserves this award, along with many other students and faculty at FDR. As I sat down to interview him, he holds a grin on his face, looking happy and excited to be given this award and to tell me his thoughts on it.

Q: So lets begin. When you were younger did you know you were going to be a teacher?

Gottesman: I didn’t, I had influential teachers, but it was the furthest thing from my mind.

Q: What made you decided to become one?

Gottesman: I just thought it was time to do more important things.  I enjoy being with young people.  To me, teaching is fun, plus I get to help America’s future leaders.

Q: Whats the best part of being a teacher?

Gottesman: There’s a lot of great parts. I guess the satisfaction you get when you see a student achieve success that they thought they would never achieve.

Q: How did you feel when you found out that you were being given the “Teacher of the Year” award?

Gottesman: I actually at first thought I was in trouble (he laughs). I was called down to the Principal’s office, and I didn’t know why. Then, I was totally shocked and surprised, I thought they were playing a joke on me!

Q: I know that there are students, besides myself, that can say that you deserve this award and that you inspire them. How does that make you feel?

Gottesman: It makes me feel happy and very special. Almost brings a tear to my eye, cause you don’t really see it everyday, or get appreciation.  But when you do, and through an award, you know that all the stuff you enjoy and love to do, is paying off.

Congratulations Mr. Gottesman!  We are all very proud of you.  The Cougar family is lucky to have you here at FDR!