Valley Park is proud to celebrate Michael Dothage, our secondary Industrial Technology teacher, as our Teacher Proud Tuesday awardee. Known for bringing learning to life, Mr. Dothage creates a classroom where students are empowered to try, encouraged to problem-solve and excited to build real-world skills that stick.
One colleague shared, “Mr. Dothage brings learning to life in a way that sticks. His classroom is a place where students feel trusted, challenged, and excited to build real skills. He’s always willing to share ideas, help colleagues, and do whatever it takes to help kids succeed.”
Families see that impact beyond the classroom. One parent noted, “Mr. Dothage has made a huge impact on my child. He pushes students to do their best while making learning hands-on and meaningful. My child comes home proud of what they’ve built and excited to tell us about class, and that says everything.”
Students echo those sentiments every day. One shared, “Mr. Dothage makes class fun and real. He actually lets us try things, mess up, and learn from it. He treats us like we can do it, and that makes us want to work harder.” Another added, “He believes in us and helps us learn skills we’ll actually use. His class is one of the reasons I look forward to school.”
Mr. Dothage’s impact reaches far beyond projects and tools. Through his belief in students, hands-on approach and commitment to meaningful learning, he helps build confidence, pride and skills students carry with them long after they leave his classroom. We’re proud to celebrate Michael Dothage as our Teacher Proud Tuesday awardee and grateful for the difference he makes every single day.
On the second Tuesday of each month, Missouri school districts recognize a Teacher Proud Tuesday honoree for making a difference in the lives of students.