Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
For the second year Thursday, Warsaw Community High School presented the Going The Extra Mile award at its Renaissance Recognition Convocation.
And for the second year in a row, when the recipient(s) took the stage to receive the award, the entire student body, faculty, staff, administrators, parents and guests gave a standing ovation.
The recipient of this year's award was the family of WCHS science teacher Mike Bott, who died unexpectedly in November. Principal Dr. Jennifer Brumfield and science teacher Bob Turner presented the award to the family.
"Today we are here to honor the memory of Mike Bott, a dedicated teacher, department head, coach, husband, father and friend to all," said Brumfield.
Bott taught in the Warsaw Community School system for 35 years, was science department head for 14 years and coached football and wrestling for more than 30 years combined.
"He was an exceptional mentor and friend to all that crossed his path," Brumfield said. "He always went the extra mile to accomplish tasks for all the people he cared about. His dedication to the educational family and community were exceptional.
"Mr. Bott was not only a great educator, but also a great family man. He was very proud of his children's accomplishments and the close relationship he and his wife possessed. Mr. Bott demanded much of his students and peers, but never required more than he would do himself. He could be fiery at times, yet his love for his profession and his love for life stood at the top of the mountain."
In the past few months, she said, Bott received Indiana's highest educational honor, the Bell Ringer award, from Superintendent Sue Ellen Reed. He also was honored by President George W. Bush for his years of service to teaching.
"Mr. Bott truly reached the pinnacle of teaching and service to all those he touched and befriended. It is with the utmost honor that WCHS presents this Extra Mile Award to his family. His memory will stand for many, many decades to come, and for all those that are here, we say, 'Thank you, Mike.'"
Briefly, Mrs. Bott told the crowd, "We deeply, deeply appreciate this award. He'd be touched."
