Tim Yeager
Position: Sixth Grade Teacher
School: St. Regis Elementary School
School District: St. Regis School District
City, State: St Regis, MT
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Tim Yeager was nominated by his superintendent, Joe Steele.
Mr. Yeager is a kind, humble, and selfless young man who loves his students, as evidenced by his actions and demeanor around them. He serves a high poverty community. He has taken the students most impacted by poverty and has motivated and encouraged them to see themselves as capable, and better than their life situation. Mr. Yeager takes the time to get to know his students as individuals and uses his mentoring time to help them learn how to set goals, develop plans to overcome challenges - academic and personal – and encourages them never give up on themselves.
Mr. Yeager even created different handshakes for each student in his class and welcomes students to class with them each day. The school culture and climate is based on the Leader in Me program, based on Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Mr. Yeager has dived into this program and has used Habit 5, Seek first to Understand, Then to be Understood, very effectively to teach his students to solve disagreements through listening, to clarify for understanding, and to empathize with others. He has been so successful that students who have been regularly referred to the office for discipline have seldom been referred from any of their classes. In addition, Mr. Yeager has changed the culture of his classroom by providing students alternatives to traditional seating arrangements. He allows students to stand to do work if they need to, and he has purchased bean bag chairs and yoga balls to help students feel more relaxed and comfortable in class. These simple steps have dramatically improved the behavior and performance of his students, especially those who have the urge to move or attention issues.
He is often found at school working late to figure out ways to get his students’ math scores up, and often meeting with the principal to discuss strategies and concerns. He pulled his class from the personalized learning platform his district implemented this year for math because he recognized the content was beyond the students’ abilities. Instead, he researched and implemented another program, EdReady, and individualized lessons for each student based on his/her area of need. Mr. Yeager even apologized to his class for not making the move earlier, which showed the human side of teachers to his students and further endeared him to them. He promised he would do better if they didn’t give up on themselves. One parent, Mrs. Tina Hill, said that her child had always struggled with math, but Mr. Yeager made them feel that they were capable and even assigned them to mentor another student in math, which boosted their confidence and self-esteem. As a result of this individualized approach with all of his students, his class collectively improved their math scores on the NWEA MAP test in the spring. More importantly, his students gained confidence in themselves, learned to persevere when work gets challenging, and changed their attitude about school.
Likewise, his students on the personalized learning platform have also performed well in English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science. While the content on this platform is more rigorous than what his district's students have experienced in the past, Mr. Yeager is able to make students feel capable and has helped them develop grit.
Mr. Yeager also teaches his students to think beyond themselves. He worked with his class on a community project to develop the Mineral County Makes a Difference backpack program, so students who could not afford school supplies would receive a backpack with supplies. The project incorporated cross-curricular activities and required the students to plan, publicize, research, and conduct the fundraising efforts. They developed press releases and flyers, which resulted in an article in the Missoulian newspaper. Additionally, they volunteered their time and services at the community flea market to take in donations to fill the backpacks with food, clothing, and school supplies. Mr. Yeager even had people throw whip cream pies at him for eight hours to raise money for the cause. In the end, the class filled 50 backpacks with materials, but more importantly, the students gained a sense of teamwork and community through their project.
In addition, Mr. Yeager is an advocate for all students, not only as a teacher, but as a coach for little league baseball, Jr. High/High School Football, and HS Basketball. On many occasions, he gave students rides home in the middle of the night because their parents didn't pick them up. On several occasions, he paid for players' meals out of his own pocket when they had no money, without expecting anything in return. He has taken students who were aimless and encouraged them to join a sport, then mentored them so they developed the skills and confidence to be a part of a team.
Mr. Yeager is a team player and a school leader. As an advocate for students and learning, he lets his voice be heard at staff meetings. He has been instrumental in developing the Summit Personalized Learning Platform at the elementary level. He is a bright young man who can quickly identify a problem and present solutions to address the problem that are well thought out and articulated. His leadership and insights have helped the district’s teachers overcome many of the challenges they faced in implementing this new learning model. Mr. Yeager is also willing to embarrass himself as an incentive for students to reach their goals.
"Mr. Yeager has been recognized by his peers as a positive influence here at St. Regis," Steele said. "His influence and contagious attitude inspires students and staff. In a word, he is selfless, and having him on our staff is an honor. Mr. Yeager truly does change lives and makes a difference in our students’ lives."
Tim Yeager in The News:
St Regis Teacher Nominated for LifeChanger of the Year
My son has had Mr. Yeager as a teacher for two years. I have never met a teacher quite like him before. He does not pick favorites, rather he makes EVERY child feel they are special. Kids love him for this!. He is also able to build confidence in all his kids which is amazing to see. There is no better candidate for this award. Mr. Yeager is truly an outstanding person and will inspire many students and adults in his career!!
Tim Yeager sounds like he has found his calling. What a wonderful man and teacher! Your work is awesome. Congratulations on your super duper nomination and many awards coming. Be it in spirit mind and body. Keep making a difference in our future! Thank You.
A Friend of your Mom's xo
It is a true blessing to have Coach Yeager in our community and in our school district. My relationship with Coach Yeager is two fold. First, I work with him. It has been wonderful to see the difference he has made with our student population. We are a high needs school district and many students need a positive male role model in their lives. Coach Yeager has done a fine job being that positive influence they need. It is great to walk by his classroom and see all his students engaged in the learning process. Second, I am a parent who has children who interact with him on a daily basis. Coach Yeager coached my son last year in Jr. High Football and for part of the High School Boys Basketball Season. Coach Yeager always has my son's health and safety in mind during practice and games. My son is looking forward to 4 more years of playing basketball for Coach Yeager. This coming school year my daughter will also get to play basketball for him. We are very excited that Coach Yeager is the Assistant High School Girls Basketball Coach. Coach Yeager is a great person. As I said before, we are truly blessed to have him.
Tim Yeager was the most mature, kind, respectful, cooperative, hard working 5th grader I have ever taught. And as I observed him progress through middle and high school in Columbus, MT, his humble and hard working qualities provided him with much success, both academically and in extra curricular activities. He always tried to do his best and helped his classmates, teammates, and community be better. St Regis' youth and their whole community is truly blessed to have a teacher, coach, and caring life changing person like Mr. Tim Yeager.
Mr. Yeager and I were childhood buddies, coworkers, teamates, and now remain lifelong friends. Tim is a compationate, hard working, competitive, caring, loyal, and humble person. As friends, coworkers, and teamates, I was able to experience and watch Mr. Yeager's many successes. It is no surprise to me that he treats his students with the upmost respect as they are his teammates. With his charismatic leadership his students will continue to win inside and outside the classroom. It brings a smile to my face to see such an impact he has had on the future of his students and I strongly recommend him for this award!! Thank you Mr. Yeager for all joy you have brought to my life and continue to do for others!
Tim's leadership, mentoring, dedication, caring, and out of box thinking not only makes him deserving...he sets an example to be the kind of person we should all strive to be.
Tim has my vote, keep inspiring young minds and setting a great example!!
Such an amazing inspirational young man!
A fine young man. So humble and kind. Much deserved nomination. Congrats Tim!
I've had the privilege of knowing Tim for 15 years. He's truly one of the kindest most caring young men I know. He's selfless in service to others. Having been through hardships of his own has given him empathy for others. As a result, Tim has been able to be a role model to young and old alike in teaching us all that we have a choice to make excuses, or be kind caring and work hard through every circumstance. He's a man that any company, team, church, or group would desire to be associated with. If our children, communities, and world had more Tim Yeagers, we would all live in a better place. Though he doesn't seek it, he deserves any recognition he gets! God bless you Tim!
Tim, from the time you were a boy, it was obvious to those who knew you that you would make a positive contribution in whatever you decided to do with your life. We were right!! Congratulations!
Tim Yeager has been a brother to me for the last 14 years. He is as loyal they come. Tim was by my side at my mom's funeral 7 years ago and by my side at my wedding this year. His love and compassion for people has always been evident and only continues to grow. I'm grateful that he's chosen the career of being a teacher and role model to so many young students that desparately need it in their lives. Too many people sit around and talk about their worry about future generations, and too few involve themselves in the lives of broken young people. I'm proud of Tim for the young lives he's impacting because he genuinely cares on an individual basis. I've never met anyone more determined and tenacious when it comes to achieving a goal and I praise God that Tim has decided to use that passion to better other people's lives.
Tim Yeager is well deserving of the life changer award and the nomination he received by Mr Steele is proof of that
Tim, you are so special to Isaac and I! This nomination attests to the character Isaac has described to me and to what I have seen of you in our short time of knowing one another. I'm so proud to know you and reading this is an inspiration! You are more than deserving of this honor and I'm so happy to read about the huge impact you are making in these kids lives!
I'm very impressed with the talent and motivation Tim shows in his classroom. I hope he leads other teachers to stretch out to all students.
Looking forward to meeting this son of my friend shelley. You have my vote.
Tim Yeager is a most deserving recipient of this a2ard I have known him since he was 5 years old. He lives an exemplary life, has great values, is a wonderful friend to all and cares about those less fortunate. He can always be counted on for help and action to resolve problems of any kind.
Thankful for Tim's nomination. What great confirmation that "it matters how we live"- our lives are an example to others..positive or negative. Tims life is a POSITIVE!
Tim's activities at St .Regis Elementary have certainly made a positive difference in the life of his students. In addition, his community involvement certainly meets the mission. vision and value of the National Life Group. I am so proud of you for your excellence in your chosen profession. Congratulations on being nominated.
Tim is the kind of genuine you only hope your kids get to experience as a teacher in their lifetimes. He's kind, honest, funny, and sets a good example for our young generations in the way he conducts himself in school and out.
With only one year of teaching under his belt, Tim has showed all of us what a true teacher and mentor should look like. It's obvious how much he cares for his students, and he more than deserves this award!
Tim is an amazing teacher. An inspiration! I admire his dedication to his students.
Tim has a heart larger than often seen in young people. He carries on a tradition he has been a part of his entire life. He gives with his whole heart and makes the world be better for the kids. Well done Tim!
I am happy to say that Tim was in my third grade class and the qualities he has now were there way back when. He was such a nice kid and an excellent student. Tim is an inspiration to students and peers alike. So proud of you, Tim!
Tim Yeager continues to impress me as he grows in his roll as a teacher and an adult. Way to go, Tim!
I had the pleasure of teaching Tim when he was in middle school. He was strong role model for his classmates -- always positive, hard-working, and friendly. In high school, he spearheaded organizing a Columbus High School Relay for Life team, and that team was the most successful fundraising youth group for several years. He inspired my children to take part in the team, just as he inspired countless children to play sports. He is one of the most sincere, humble, dedicated young men I know.
Tim truly adheres to the basic principle known as: 'Treat others the way you want to be treated, if not better".
Simply outstanding. The love and commitment I'm sure is contagious. Incredible young man.
Reading through Mr. Steele's description of Tim he is seeing how much this man wants to change the lives of others. He has been an inspiration to me for a long time on his ability to let people in. He makes sure that everyone's time is valued and does an amazing job with this. I've been fortunate to become Tim's friend for many years and he continues to amaze me with achievements, however they are not the least bit surprising to anyone who knows him. I've read through some of the comments and they remind me of the many things that he has done to better the people around him. I know he is destined for great things and will only continue to inspire the people around him to reach for their dreams and be the best version of themselves they can be. Thanks Tim for the inspiration and congrats on the nomination!
Tim coached my son in basketball his freshman year! What a positive impact he had on those young men and what an amazing role model for all young men!
Elementary teachers are some of kids' first role models and Tim is showing his students what it means to be a genuine person and positive role model. So proud of you and your dedication to the students, Tim! We need more teachers like you! St. Regis is lucky to have you!
Tim would cut is eyes out and give them to you if you needed them. I am lucky to have him in my life.
I grew up with Mr. Tim Yeager, and always a caring and hard working individual. It was at no surprise to me when he switched from the pursuit of a business degree to education, as he has a deep passion for sports (coaching and participating), the betterment of children, and improving the community.
Congrats on your nomination!
What a positive role model. His students are obviously very fortunate to have him as a teacher. It sounds like we could all learn from him.
amazing--fits the personality of the Timmy we've known since his grade school days--always an enthusiastic team player loaded with energy and a strong will to win--congratulations, Tim, keep it up! Best always, Ron & Georgiana
I've know Tim for a long time and always been such a considerate stand up guy. He has always been a leader among his peers. Way to go Tim!
Way to go this is what teaching is all about helping each and every student and making a impact and believing in them when no one eles does!!
Making a lasting difference, that's special.
Throughout his young life Tim has consistently demonstrated extraordinary leadership founded in humility and vision...changing more lives in his season than most do in a lifetime.
Tim Yeager is a caring, quality person. I have always enjoyed working with team players. Tim is a team player that not only works cooperatively, but innately leads in a way that he promotes the best in all he works with in the process. Students seek him out and in his quiet manner guides and supports student''s as they make choices and set goals. TI'm Yeager is a positive catalyst in a very challenging educational environmentfor students. Tim Yeager is a Life changer of the year role model as he innately leads and guides challenging students.
We need more teachers like Mr. Yeager to make a positive impact in the lives of students!
Tim is the most sincere, kind hearted and caring person I've ever met. It's no surprise to me that he continuously goes above and beyond for his students so that they may succeed.
I am proud to say that as Tim's kindergarten teacher, I quickly recognized him as an outstanding, kind, polite child. I read the comments from his coworkers, friends, family, his students' parents, and all those who praised him. Confirmation of what I knew about Tim in his first year of school.
I can not think of a more deserving candidate. In the years that I have known Tim he has always shown me kindness, been extremely encouraging, and positive to be around, and brings a smile on every encounter. It is rare that you meet people in this day and age with a heart as pure, and the ability to be so effortlessly kind. We are taught to be the change that we wish to see in the world. Tim Yeager is that light in the darkness, he is making this world a better place one life at a time.
Tim has always been a leader in school,sports,after school activities,Relay4Life fund raising. During school vacations and summer break Tim always had a job and worked hard. I'm very proud of my son. Im overcome with emotions reading these comments. Tim was a miracle baby and I always said he going to touch a lot of lives. Tim your Awesome I loveyou.
I've known Tim since grade school he went to school with my twin granddaughter. What he is as an adult is the same as a child. His values haven't changed he was a young pillar in this Columbus community long before he was adult. He has so many great qualities there isn't enough time or space to list a constant role model.
We need more teachers like Mr. Yeager
Tim Yeager not only exemplifies what it means to be a "life changer" inside the classroom, but out of it as well. I've been blessed enough to call Tim a friend since my freshman year of college, but I have known him for much longer. My first memory of him is when we were playing basketball against each other in a summer tournament in middle school. Tim's team was leading by upwards of 60 points (Tim would eventually lead his team to be state runners up), with 2 minutes left in the game. Tim's team rebounded the ball- I looked down court and to my utter horror saw one of his teammates standing under our basket calling for the ball. The ball was passed to Tim- he looked down-court, then at the scoreboard and shook his head. Without any prompting from his coaches Tim held the ball and expressed to his teammates that they were to do the same. To hear Tim's superintendent refer to him as "a kind, humble, and selfless young man" does not surprise me. Because this was my first thought about Tim as well. I can't think of a more deserving individual for this award.
I have known Tim most of his life. It is such a Joy to see him fulfilling the life of others by sharing his gifts and reaching young life's and encouraging them to be the best that they can be. Way to go Tim keep it up.
Wow! That's the Tim Yeager I know and admire! On top of all that Mr. Steele wrote, I can
Pass along that Mr. Yeager has repeatedly told me how much he loves to teach and how much he enjoys the school, his fellow teachers and coaches, the staff, and, importantly, the students.
We have been acquainted with Tim for many years as we watched him grow into an outstanding young man who wants to help students succeed. His goals are success for his students.
Thank you for all you are doing for the children !
I have known Tim for his entire life. From the moment he was born, he was leaving a positive mark in each person's life he touched. I am proud to say I was one of Tim's middle school teachers and can confidently say confirm he's well-deserving of this recognition. He is strong, confident, witty, kind, dedicated, genuine, spirited, and selfless. I'm so proud of him and whole-heartedly recommend you seriously consider Tim Yeager for this award!
I've had the privilege of knowing Tim most of my life. He has always been one of my favorite people to be around. He's so good at making EVERYONE feel included! Honestly, I don't know that I've ever met anyone that had something negative to say about him!
You're the best, Timmy! So, so proud of you, buddy!! St. Regis is so lucky to have you, and I'm so lucky to know you!! Keep up the good work!
As Tims parents, he brought us so much joy and pride as a young man. Not only as an athlete but his heart and spirit. He's truly on of the finest individuals I know. Now he's an educator, I get to listen to his classroom stories,some are funny some are sad. But I still see and hear that passion for his students, not only their education but their life's. Tim Yeager is a very good teacher. And,, this doesn't surprise us
Mr. Yeager student taught with me in 2016. The kids absolutely loved him. They loved him not just due to the relationships he formed with them during that short time, but also due to his professionalism and work ethic. They knew that Mr. Yeager was a teacher who is honest, sincere, and holds the students' achievements in high regard. I'm very happy for him!
I've known Tim most of his life as he grew up in Columbus, Montana. Mr. Steele's descriptions of him are spot on. I am thrilled to know that Tim has found his nitch in education and is making such a profound impact on his students, coworkers and community. I'm not surprised one bit. Very proud of you Tim.
The world needs more Mr Yeagers and especially in an area like Mineral County
One of the best teachers ever.He helped me at math when I was down in the below average and by the end of the year I was average.
I graduated high school with Tim and he has always been an amazing example of what it is to give where you live. Tim was always happy to help coach younger kids and never made anyone feel like he was too good to approach. He genuinely cares about those with whom he interacts. He is, and always has been, a wonderful role model for students and for anyone lucky enough to know him. Tim is a wonderful and deserving candidate of this award.
Mr. Steele couldn't have said it any better. Mr. Tim Yeager is one of the most incredible young teachers I have ever had the opportunity to meet. He is open minded and willing to work with any challenge his students may send his way to be sure at the end of the day they are successful.
In addition to his extra hours and late nights put in at the school coaching, strategizing and coming up with the best possible plan for each of his students he is also always willing to step up and volunteer for many community events in our small town.
He has offered opportunities and made differences that will last a lifetime with his sixth grade class. Our students, staff, and community are very fortunate to have Mr. Yeager as part of our team.
Thank you Tim!
As a parent of one of those struggling math students I am so happy to say that my child started the school year at about 13% and at high risk to ending the year at 47% and no risk. My child in past years would often comment "I'm just not good at math" and would continually struggle through homework never quite understanding the concepts. This year I have not heard her put herself down about math and she has gone from being a B/C student to mostly As. I can't thank Mr. Yeager enough for being a positive influence in her life, to her self esteem and helping to grow her confidence in math and every other subject. He is very deserving of this award!
Tim is a great teacher and an even better person. He has a mentality when it comes to teaching and is: "to serve and not be served." What sets him apart from others is his ability to reach students at a deeper level. He has an innate ability to care and support his students, to inspire them and motivate them to be and do their best. As a teacher and coach, his students and players are willing to run through walls, scale the highest mountain, and swim across the ocean just to please him and get his approval. Because of his efforts, he was nominated by his peers as the employee of the month. I have also been on the other end of many phone calls from parents stating their approval of Mr. Yeager. I am very proud him. He is very deserving of this award.
Sincerely,
Shaun Ball
St. Regis Principal
Tim Yeager is the type of young teacher that all communities should have. Tim is an outstanding individual who puts his belief in himself and his capabilities to the test each day when he interacts with students, athletes, community members, family and friends. Tim's compassion for people has been quite evident over the years as he has personally helped family and friends who are struggling to find purpose and meaning in their lives. It is an honor to know such a kind and loving individual and we are all blessed for having him in our lives.
I got to know Tim Yaeger over the past few years in Columbus as a down to earth and humble young man. He truly would give his last shirt to help somebody in need. As a teacher he incorporates new ideas to engage students. I belief he is a great asset to any school.
Even as a small child Tim showed his love and compassion for others! He has accomplished what others are not able to do by continuing that as an adult. St Regis is very fortunate to have such a great teacher, role model, mentor, coach, friend and co-worker! His talents and determination are priceless. Congrats Tim on your nomination.
Tim Yeager has always been an incredible person! When we were young we were one of the first ones to start a Relay for Life youth team! Every year our team fundraised the most money out of the youth teams in the Billings Relay for Life Event because we were determined to do just that! Tim would lead by example in his fundraising and in helping others along the way! That was just one example of something he did in our childhood! He's always been a great person and I am so happy that he is a teacher and has the ability to continue to motivate and help other students! He has talked to my husband and I about how amazing the kids are that he is able to teach, and we can really tell that he loves his job! He has always been a team player, and a great role model! I couldn't think of a better person to receive this nomination and the award! Good luck Tim! You deserve it!!
Mr. Yeager goes over and beyond to create engaging lessons and authentic projects for students. He is upbeat, responsible, and a positive role model. Mr. Yeager is a team player and willing to help other teachers. His students respect him and know he truly cares about them.
Awesome job Tim. Very proud of him. This community misses him.
I have known Tim for many years and have had the pleasure to see him grow up into the fine man he is today. Congrats Tim you are truly an inspiration ??
Have known Tim forever. Cant think of anyone more deserving
It is truly gratifing as a semi-retired educator to observe Tim interact with both his students and peers. The atmosphere that Tim provides shines like a bright light not just to the students under his direct instruction but to everyone that he encounters.
Tim is an up-beat and enthusiastic team player. His classroom provides a safe place to take risks, and he brings out the best in his students. He himself, is willing to try new things, and usually ends up being a leader along the way. His students respond to his genuine care and concern for them, and in return, they give their best effort.
Mr. Yeager is an amazing teacher. He worked with my son Chance in all sorts of subjects. He stayed in great contact with me as a parent. He not only encouraged chance to do better but also rewarded him with kindness and patience. Thank you for all you have done!
Mr. Yeager is such a positive addition to our school. My student will be in his class this next school year and I'm so looking forward to getting to know Mr. Yeager better and seeing his influence on Ben Lohman.
Tim Yeager is such a positive role model for our students. He is a great addition to the teaching staff.
Mr. Yeager not only teaches students he also helps them gain the desire to succeed in everything they do. He has become the positive influence in the lives of many of our students, especially those that haven't always had the best influences at home. The class he had this year was one of the more difficult classes in our school when the year started and by the time first semester ended you wouldn't have believed that they were the same kids. They went from refusing to do any work to asking when the next project was going to start. The class as a whole grew leaps and bounds from where they had started and several students that had never had faith in themselves gained perseverance and a can do attitude from the constant reassurance and praise that Mr. Yeager gave them. Mr. Yeager has been the inspiration that so many of these young minds needed.
