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Williamston
High School Instructor Charles Thorne has been nominated for
ExplorNet Teacher of the Year. ExplorNet's
Technology Learning Program was inaugurated in April of 2000 as a Smithsonian
Laureate. Each year, the
 Computerworld-Smithsonian program identifies
and honors men and women whose visionary use of Information Technology
produces positive social, economic, and educational change. The program is
credited with providing students with valuable job skills.
Mr.
Thorne, one of five finalists nominated for the award statewide is described
by his co-workers as a computer wiz and a true friend of technology.
Not only does he teach 3 full 90-minute "computer" classes a day,
but he also serves in a voluntarily role as IT Manager for the Northeast
Technology & Business Center (NETBC).
“We
are very proud that Charles is being recognize statewide for his dedication
to his students and the many hours of volunteer work he provides to the
center,” said Karen Coltrain, Director of Operations for NETBC. “Through
the work of Charles and the Martin County School System, along with Martin
Community College and North Carolina State University, we have a ready-made
workforce for technology companies,” Coltrain added.
The
21st Century Workforce Commission, established by Congress under the
Workforce Investment Act, has recognized ExplorNet's strategies for
providing real-world training. ExplorNet
equips schools with the technology and training necessary to prepare
students, teachers, and communities for the 21st Century and its
economy.
During
the construction phase of the NETBC, ExplorNet students from Williamston and
Roanoke High Schools, along with others in the community, pulled over 30,000
linear feet of CAT 5 wiring and equipped the center with a wireless network
enabling the center to have one of the most advanced networks in the region.
The experience provided students with a “hands-on” work experience.
A born
teacher, Mr. Thorne always puts his students first. He puts forth every effort to make sure his students give
their best. In turn, they
receive the most from their hard work.
As is the case of the Williamston High School VICA team which Mr.
Thorne sponsored. The team,
under Mr. Thorne’s leadership, placed first in the state competition then
traveled to the national competition where they placed fourth.
“Charles
exemplifies what is best about Martin County Schools – dedicated teachers
who are committed to the best possible future for our students,” stated
Jim Ward, Executive Director of the Martin County Economic Development
Corporation.
The
ExplorNet model has been very successful earning accolades from educators,
legislators, and the business community. As a result of ExplorNet's success,
Congress provided seed money to apply the model to other pilot sites across
the nation. Currently, the program is now active in North Carolina, North
Dakota, South Dakota, Mississippi and Arkansas.
The
ExplorNet program helps schools to produce students who are prepared to
enter today's competitive workforce. Communities that claim these high-tech
skills in their labor pool find it easier to retain existing businesses and
attract new employers.
In
addition to his many technology-related talents, Mr. Thorne demonstrates a
heart of gold, according to those that know him.
“Just last semester, he, along with a group of students, built a
computer from spare parts for a student who otherwise would not have had
one,” said Coltrain. “There
was no bragging or boasting—just a silent act of kindness that many would
never be aware of. But that’s
Charles. That’s what he is
all about—trying to make a difference in the lives of the people he
meets,” added Coltrain.
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