James Erik Sassak, Watson Mountain Middle School history teacher, is the recipient of the 2024 Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Excellence in Teaching Award.
Sassak's commitment to teaching social science contributes to his mission to impart social studies curriculum through engaging lessons, interactive activities and collaborative projects that foster independent thinking and strategic skills. Beyond the curriculum, Sassak is recognized for modeling leadership in his educational endeavors as he demonstrates a commitment to excellence in his teaching methods and cultivating positive environments for academic mastery.
"We are thrilled to honor James Erik Sassak with this prestigious award. His impact on the education community and, most importantly, on the students he serves is commendable. Mr. Sassak exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator, and we are proud to recognize his achievements," said Kimberly Hammers, vice president of the Virginia Council for the Social Studies.
The Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes and honors a Virginia social studies educator striving to advance civil rights and civil liberties. Nominees inspire students to be fully informed about the civil rights and civil liberties assured by the Constitution. They empower students to take informed action in response to injustices and to be responsible contributing members of our democracy. This year's award recipient will be honored at the VCSS conference.
Mr. Sassak will be recognized for his outstanding contributions to social studies education at an award ceremony on March 1 at the VCSS Conference in Farmville, Virginia, at Longwood University.