February SuperStar Teacher: Celebrating Max Parker of Cotaco School

Mr. Max Parker, a gifted specialist at Cotaco School in Somerville, is the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce's SuperStar Teacher for February. He’s been teaching the talented and gifted program for nearly a decade.

The nomination received by Principal Kim Crow celebrated Mr. Parker’s willingness to help his students and colleagues in any way he can. It goes on to read, "He provides opportunities for students to cultivate their intellectual, creative, artistic, and/or leadership capacities. Mr. Parker provides experiences beyond the regular classroom such as the aquaponics life cycle, in which students learn about and actively participate in growing both fish and plants indoors. In addition to his enriching talented and gifted classes, Mr. Parker organizes and facilitates student trips to Camp McDowell and Space Camp, the county chess tournament, and scholars’ bowl.”

On February 16, our presenting sponsor, Hubbard & Drake General - Mechanical Contractors, Inc., represented by Brian Beidleman, along with Chamber staff, surprised Mr. Parker with two gift cards—one for his classroom and one for personal use. Our February sponsor was Party Central, Inc.

“I’m surprised, humbled, appreciative, thankful. I work with so many great people that I would like to share it with everybody here,” said Mr. Parker. “Every day brings some different challenges, but I love working with the children and helping them gain knowledge that hopefully they can carry on in their lives later on down the road.”

The Chamber kicked off this initiative for 2024 and we are excited to recognize outstanding educators like Mr. Parker who not only make learning fun but also leave a lasting impact on their students and community. Throughout the year, we'll continue to surprise and honor educators in Decatur-Morgan County who exemplify excellence in teaching and inspire those around them.