Tom Anderson, a teacher at McIver Education Center, knows that his students’ needs don’t disappear at the end of the day. That’s why he works relentlessly, both in and out of school, to significantly improve the lives of his autistic students and their families. In addition, he does it with infinite patience and a wealth of ideas of how to help children overcome challenges.

To the parent who nominated him, Tom is a hero who helps surmount communication problems, behavioral issues and imperfect social skills. To Principal Joe Hagler, Tom is a superb and selfless teacher who gives accolades to everyone but himself. To the students he works with, he is a champion for them – doing whatever it takes to assist them. For those reasons, he was selected as the district’s Employee of the Month.

“Tom has mostly on his own time gone into the homes of a number of parents and helped them set up home programs,” Hagler said. “He also sets them up with community agencies. Everything he does is from the heart.”

As Employee of the Month, Tom received a $50 gift card from Sam’s Club, which has partnered with GCS to support the employee recognition program. In addition, the Guilford County Board of Education will recognize him at its April 8 meeting. Watch for the Employee of the Month on GCSTV 2.

Also recognized this month are Cindy Goode, custodian at Brooks Global Studies, and Linda Ondeck, student information management system operator at Kiser Middle, as runners-up to the award. Both were presented with gift cards in honor of their selfless dedication.