A Special Thank You to the Cherokee Creek Boys School Academic Team
There’s a moment every parent recognizes.
It might be when your son finally gets it … a math concept that once felt impossible … a paragraph he’s proud to read out loud … or even just the courage to raise his hand after weeks of holding back.
Behind that moment is often a teacher.
During Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4 – 8, 2026), we’re reminded of something powerful:
The right teacher doesn’t just teach a subject.
The right teacher can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
Why Teachers Matter
Especially for Teen Boys
For boys ages 10 – 15, learning isn’t just academic – it’s deeply personal. It’s tied to:
Confidence | Identity | Emotional Safety | Motivation
According to the American Psychological Association, stress and emotional challenges can significantly impact how children learn, behave and engage in school.
For many families searching for help – especially those exploring options like a therapeutic boarding school for boys – the issue isn’t intelligence or potential.
It’s often that their child hasn’t yet experienced a learning environment where he feels understood. And that’s where great teachers come in.
As Cherokee Creek Boys School Academic Dean, Calvin Croxton, puts it:
“Most students don’t care how much you know … until they know how much you care.”
When School Hasn’t Worked … Yet
If you’re a parent reading this, you may already know the feeling: School hasn’t gone the way you hoped it would for your son. Maybe he’s:
At Cherokee Creek Boys School, this story is familiar – and importantly, it’s not the end of the story. Learn more about our CCBS Academic Program HERE.
CCBS takes a different approach to learning:
- Small class sizes (up to 10 students)
- Accredited academics
- Individualized learning plans
- Flexible, year-round structure
But what makes the difference isn’t just the structure.
It’s the relationships.
The “Magic” of Teaching
What It Really Looks Like
We often talk about great teachers like they have some kind of magic. But when you look closer, that “magic” is made up of very real, very intentional things.
Connection Comes First
Connection Comes FirstMath teacher, Nick Linscott, describes it simply:
“If you have a connection with a student, it can mean a lot and make a big difference in his progress.”
In Nick’s classroom, learning is personal:
- He moves from student to student, offering individualized support
- He reframes competition – encouraging boys to compete with themselves
- He uses humor to ease anxiety around math
Because for many boys, the struggle isn’t ability – it’s confidence.
Learning Should Feel Alive
Learning Should Feel Alive
Step into science class with Sam Taylor and you’ll quickly realize this isn’t a typical classroom. There are artifacts, hands-on projects – and yes, even snakes.
But there’s a deeper lesson behind it: When we don’t understand something, we often fear it.
Through environmental science projects like stream restoration and water testing, students don’t just learn – they experience cause and effect in real time.
Creativity Builds Confidence
Creativity Builds ConfidenceEnglish teacher, Cameron Kerr, brings a different kind of energy:
“When a student says, ‘Can I write about this?’ and I can say yes … it’s a good day.”
- Creative prompts
- Flexible seating (bean bags, yoga balls)
- Real-time coaching and encouragement
It’s not just about writing – it’s about helping boys find their voice.
Learning Extends Beyond the Classroom
Learning Extends Beyond the ClassroomSocial studies teacher, Larry Printz, shares one of the most meaningful moments:
“My favorite thing is seeing that moment when the light comes on for a child.”
That moment doesn’t always happen at a desk.
It might happen:
- Around a fireplace
- On a hike
- Or during a shared experience outside the classroom
Chrissy Kizer
Every Teacher Is Also a Mentor
Every Teacher Is Also a MentorChrissy Kizer, Academic Tutor …
“I love watching students’ confidence grow.”
Holly Hamilton, Art Teacher …
“Art isn’t about perfection – it’s about expression.”
Casey Scott, Teacher for Music, Fitness, Mindfulness …
“Yoga is about mastering your mind and body.”
Caleb Hawkins, Academic Coordinator …
“Seeing boys try something new and succeed – that’s what it’s all about.”
Sydel Morris, Special Education Advisor …
“We meet boys and families exactly where they are.”
A Different Kind of Academic Environment
At its core, Cherokee Creek’s academic program is built around one idea:
Every boy learns differently.
That’s why learning is integrated with:
- Therapeutic support
- Health and recreation
- Social and emotional development
This whole-child approach helps boys:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Rebuild confidence
- Re-engage with learning
And often, for the first time in a while, boys will …
Feel successful in school again.
Teachers as Lifelong Influencers
Teacher Appreciation Week isn’t just about gratitude – it’s about recognition.
The American College of Education describes it as a time to honor the lasting contributions educators make in our lives.
And those contributions go far beyond academics.
Teachers influence:
- How a child sees himself
- How he handles failure
- Whether he believes he can succeed
Simple Ways to Thank a Teacher
If there’s a teacher who has made a difference in your child’s life, this is a great time to reach out. 
Here are a few simple ways:
- Write a short, meaningful note
- Send an email sharing a specific moment
- Encourage your child to say thank you
- Share appreciation publicly
- Offer a small gesture – a card, coffee or even a drawing
Sometimes the simplest message means the most …
“You made a difference.”
A Final Thought
At its best, teaching isn’t about delivering information. It’s about:
- Building trust
- Creating safety
- Helping a child believe in himself again
And when that happens …
everything else starts to follow.
To the Teachers
At CCBS and Everywhere
During Teacher Appreciation Week, we say thank you to the …
Teachers who stay patient when learning feels hard.
Mentors who see potential before a child sees it in himself.
Educators who show up, day-after-day, with care, creativity and commitment.
And to the academic team at Cherokee Creek Boys School …
Thank you for helping boys rediscover not just how to learn but …
How to believe in themselves again.
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