PERRY, Ga. — Perry High School is home to the Panthers, who are said to be winners not only on the field but also in the classroom.
Junior Journalist Ian Sanders went to the panther pit to award this week's My Teacher's Tops.
Mr. Chess Malone is a passionate literature teacher at Perry High School.
He teaches seniors and says it's fun to teach his students a wide variety of experiences through the art of literature.
He hopes to spark some inspiration in his students and hopes they cherish the lessons learned both inside and outside the classroom.
Madison Burkes is a senior and nominated Mr. Malone.
She wasn't in school for the surprise because she was in Athens, Georgia representing her school at the Georgia FCCLA State Leadership Conference.
However, she still sent in a video to brag about him.
"I've nominated Mr. Malone for his love and enthusiasm in teaching his class," Burkes said. "He makes the class well worth coming to and actually enjoyable. He is far from a normal teacher. He puts his own quirks and like his own spin in a teaching way that helps us connect to the topic. He makes sure we understand and gives us every opportunity to be the best we can be."
Mr. Malone was surprised to be awarded.
He said although quirky, he just wants to meet the kids with the energy they bring to the classroom.
"Honored is probably the primary thing," Malone said. "I'm very touched that somebody would be impacted and take the initiative to try and let me know."
Mr. Malone says he's looking forward to seeing his seniors graduate and carry on the Perry pride.
"This is why you teach ultimately," Malone said. "Seeing them every day, not only within your subject but you're seeing them grow as people and it gets me excited about what they're doing in their lives and their excitement for the future."
Mr. Malone got his psychology degree at Lander University and received his master of arts in teaching at Georgia College.
Congratulations Mr. Malone!
Students, keep sending in your letters or emails – we just might come to your school next!
You can nominate them for My Teacher is Tops by writing us a letter or email.
Send letters to 1314 Gray Highway, Macon Georgia, 31211 or email us at myteacheristops@13wmaz.com.
You can also send us a video on the 13WMAZ app.
Make sure to include your name, your teacher's name, and what school you attend. Get a parent to help you upload the video, and our Junior Journalists might just surprise your teacher next!