BY GLEN WERLING
At Friday night’s homecoming game at Carnes Field, teacher Mike Carter and retired teacher Chris Hartman were honored as the Southern Wells Distinguished Citizens of the Year for 2022.
Hartman was unable to attend the event because of a family emergency, but a surprised Carter made the walk across the football field from his position on the chain gang.
Carter started teaching at Southern Wells in 1984, has coached basketball, volleyball and football, launched and has guided the Jump Rope for Heart, archery and intramural sports programs.
“Mr. Carter makes gym class an adventure each day whether the students play What Time is it Mr. Fox, earn their Locomotive license, or experience Fall Fitness Frenzy,” according to co-student council sponsor Trisha Tucker.
“This means a lot to me. I’m very honored,” Carter said.
Hartman started teaching at Southern Wells in 1983 and, according to Tucker, has worn the title of teacher, “tech guru”, lunchline helper, testing administrator, master scheduler, tutor, score book keeper for multiple sports, office assistant, Sunshine advisor, and caramel brownie chef.
She continues to volunteer at Southern Wells in her retirement.
Tucker said that Carter and Hartman tied in the voting on who should receive the honor.
“The lists of their accomplishments, kindness, and humility cannot even begin to be explained at this short presentation,” Tucker stated.
glenw@news-banner.com
