In June, three educators from Athlos schools throughout the United States were chosen as recipients of the Athlos Distinguished Educator Award. Each of the three were chosen based on their excellence in exemplifying the Athlos Pillars of Performance: Prepared Mind, Healthy Body, and Performance Character. The three educators are: James Bentz, Athlos Academy of Utah, Herriman, UT; Anthony Spano, Athlos Academy of Jefferson Parish, Terrytown, LA; and Eunice Gyamerah, Athlos Academy of St. Cloud, St. Cloud, MN.
Athlos Distinguished Educators, pictured left to right, Superintendent Darin Knicely, James Bentz, educator, Athlos Academy of Utah, Anthony Spano, educator, Athlos Academy of Jefferson Parish. Camille Wells, Chief of Operations and Growth, Athlos Academies
Bentz, who teaches junior high English language arts, is a sixteen-year veteran educator known for his passion for education and his involvement in journalism, yearbook, creative writing, chess team, book club and National and Junior National Honor Society. Recently Bentz began recording videos as part of a literacy series called “Tuck-In-Tuesday’s,” which were designed to help educators stay connected with students during the pandemic.
“Mr. Bentz always goes the extra mile to display leadership, optimism, and energy in everything he does,” said Ameran Link, Athlos Social Media Specialist.
Bentz says his best quality as an educator is his desire to put students and their needs first and foremost in all his classes. “Everything I do, from ongoing professional development to advocating for kids, is driven by a humble desire to see young people become smarter, better human beings,” he said.
Athlos Academy provides a unique approach to teaching and learning in the Herriman area. Its mission is to provide high-quality educational opportunities for the whole child built on the three foundational pillars: Prepared Mind, Healthy Body, and Performance Character. Students participate in four scientifically developed physical activity sessions each week, Performance Character is integrated into the culture of the school, and high academic achievement is an expectation for all students. Athlos Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school serving kindergarten-ninth grade.