LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Theodore Shim

Position: Math Teacher
School: Valley Christian High School
School District: Private School
City, State: San Jose, CA

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Theodore Shim was nominated by a member of the community, Myon Kraus.

Mr. Shim is being nominated for his exceptional qualities demonstrated during his 12 years of teaching mathematics at a Christian school. He has consistently shown excellent control over students, strong leadership, sound judgment, and analytical thinking as an educator. He effectively uses precise language to ensure smooth classroom management. He naturally and gently connects with his students, drawing on the life experiences he has gained over the years.

As an educator, he possesses a strong sense of mission and responsibility, with a clear passion for teaching and working with students. His active involvement in students' lives, along with his emphasis on character education, highlights his dedication to fostering both academic and personal growth.

"Given these qualities, he is highly recommended and well-suited for this award," said Kraus.

Comments (4)

Luna H Posted 5 months ago

I’ve learned Pre-Calculus and Multi-Variable Calculus under Dr. Shim at VCHS, and he’s an AMAZING teacher and mentor. Not only do his students appreciate him for his intrinsic ability to translate difficult math concepts into understandable language for teenagers, but we appreciate him for the sincere personal connections he fosters in our classroom. He supports all of our unique growth stories and remembers each of them to congratulate us when we grow as a student. Small little things I’m grateful for: Dr. Shim giving me a graphing calculator when I forgot mine before another math teacher’s test, Dr. Shim remembering my sister from 5 years ago and asking how she’s doing, Dr. Shim seriously consulting me when I felt afraid to take multi-variable calculus, Dr. Shim sitting down and encouraging me for a very long time when I was crying over my poor performance on a chapter test, and Dr. Shim smiling and giving me a fist bump when I finally scored an A+ on a recent test. My own growth story was only possible because I felt supported and cared for, and also because he would have his door open for us to ask questions during his own lunch time. I truly believe each of Dr. Shim’s students will have their own stories and personal connections with him, and it’s very special, because what high schoolers need in their teenage years is a steadfast, wise and patient mentor, and Dr. Shim is a leader who encompasses all of these qualities and much more! Thank you Dr. Shim!!

Shalini Posted 5 months ago

Dr. Shim is awesome. He is so instrumental is sharing the love of advanced mathematics with his students. Very appreciative of his efforts in making complex concepts engaging for all students. Thank you for all you do!

Adelyn Bui Posted 5 months ago

I took Dr. Shim’s geometry class 12 years ago, when he first joined Valley Christian. It was my very first class in high school. Dr. Shim always made a conscious effort to support students in the learning process and had a remarkable dedication to both teaching and learning. He has made a lasting impact on his students, and I’m so happy to see him receiving the recognition he truly deserves.

Charlotte Li Posted 5 months ago

Yes Dr. Shim! He actually makes precalc fun.