ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times
DATE: Friday, March 28, 1997 TAG: 9703280089
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-4 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
DATELINE: BODY CAMP
SOURCE: JOANNE POINDEXTER THE ROANOKE TIMES
Supporters are calling on the School Board to rethink its decision to dismiss a popular chemistry teacher.
Two Liberty High School sophomores and three parents pleaded with the Bedford County School Board Thursday to reinstate a chemistry teacher at the school.
The third-year teacher, Tim Overstreet, was notified Friday that his contract would not be renewed. Overstreet teaches chemistry and is the junior class sponsor at Liberty.
Overstreet did not speak at the meeting, but about 50 parents and students attended in a show of support for him.
Tabby Wood told the board she never really enjoyed class until taking Overstreet's chemistry class last semester. Wood said Overstreet works overtime - coming in at 7 a.m. and staying until 5 p.m. - to help his students. ``He never lets us fall behind,'' Wood said.
She presented a petition said to have more than 500 parent and student signatures calling for Overstreet to remain.
Ian Sikes, the other student, said Overstreet is well liked and respected by all students and teachers at Liberty.
``He's always kind and cheerful and willing to help students. I look forward to school each day because of him.''
The three parents said they were devastated that a teacher of Overstreet's caliber would not be retained. Eva Yoder said she has inquired of parents, faculty and Overstreet's former students and never heard anything negative. ``He is fair and impartial to all of his students,'' said Yoder, whose daughter is in Overstreet's class.
``This teacher has demonstrated his ability to reach students,'' Karen Thomas said. She told the board, ``Your responsibility is to rectify this injustice.''
LENGTH: Short : 44 linesby CNB