Music that Describes Robert
Robert Howard was nominated by Michael Walker, a member of the community.
Twelve or thirteen years ago, as the keynote speaker at a Community Forum on education in downtown Brockton, Massachusetts, Mr. Howard opened his speech by asking the audience of parents and grandparents, "How many of you do not like math?" After most of the audience responded they did not like math, Mr. Howard confidently and convincingly stated, "That's because you did not have me as your math teacher!"
Mr. Howard's commitment to equipping students with math and life skills demonstrates that real people build strong, proud traditions. Educational institutions, like other organizations, are defined by the people who make the engine run over the long haul.
"When I think of Robert Howard, Jr., I think of loyalty, devotion, steadfastness, honor, and the resilience of the human spirit. On several occasions, I have witnessed former students and parents and guardians of current students comment on the difference Mr. Howard made in their lives," said Walker. "Their testimonies about him demonstrate that specific scores and grades may fade, but the memories of classmates and teachers will last forever."
"I applaud Robert Howard Jr.'s "Out of the box" strategies for working with students and colleagues. There is still no substitute for inspired educators who believe in their students and can arouse their wonder, demand their best, and encourage their creativity."
Many people go their entire education without having a teacher that stands out quite like Mr. Howard. He’s a man that is so absolutely genuine and charismatic , something that is as clear as day anytime you witness him standing in front of a classroom. It was back in 2007 that I was lucky enough to bear witness to someone who wholeheartedly cared about every student in his class. Years later I was ecstatic to hear that my younger brother would have the opportunity to learn under his tutelage. He is both and outstanding educator and a pillar of respect. To this day he is held in such high regard by all of my former classmates I still speak with from those many years ago.
Cheers to you Mr. Howard you truly deserve this award
Mr. Howard’s dedication to teaching and inspiring is rivaled by few (if any at all). Making kids want to go to math class?? That’s talent. Learning Algebra was something that happened almost as a byproduct if you had the privilege of being in one of his classes in the midst of meaningful conversation and anecdotes of what it means to be an upstanding person. Something that rings truer with each passing year is Mr. Howard’s speech he gave my algebra class during our first week 9 years ago. He explained how if you can try again there is no failure just learning.
I’ve been working with Robert for 6 weeks and his presence in our school is tangible. You can hear him interacting with students and staff as he makes his way through the halls during passing and is working hard everyday to create a positive, welcoming environment for everyone at our school. Robert wants to making a lasting difference and he works at it each and every day
For me, Mr. Howard was that teacher who I wanted to see 5,10,20 years down the line and be able to share my stories of success with him so that he could be proud of me. And that motivated me to try my hardest as a student when I had him as my Algebra teacher, but also motivated me to keep trying as a student after junior high, high school and even college. Just so that, if I ever had the blessing and privilege of seeing him again, he would say he’s proud. Mr. Howard went ABOVE and BEYOND for his students and always advocated for our educational development. The year I had him, he was teaching us out of the advanced algebra book even though our class wasn’t involved in the Talented and Gifted Program. He believed in our potential and you could genuinely feel that from him every day. He was not only a math teacher for so many of my classmates, but he was also an advisor, a guide of the real world, a role model. He kept it real with us the entire time and gave advice that has stuck with me even 13 years later! This man deserves his flowers. He deserves this award. He’s the only teacher I’ve ever had that I could even THINK about nominating for an award like this.
Mr. Howard was a huge influence in my younger years! Growing up without a father, seeing a strong male figure and how one should conduct themselves was very huge for me. Not only was he an amazing teacher but an amazing individual who you could tell cared about his students beyond the numbers. I've learned many life lessons from him that have stuck with me throughout my young adult and adult years. Mr. Howard also taught flag football and gave kids a chance to shine outside of the classroom as well. I'll never forget when he said “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you're on time, you're late. And if you’re late you’re forgotten.”
Mr. Howard was the best math teacher I ever had. He really pushed me to work the hardest, he has a huge impact on my life. I would not be where I am without him.
Rob Howard. A man that loves doing what he does. A teacher, father, husband, son, and best friend. When I was his student, I believed he was just some grumpy old man who only taught 8th grade algebra. Boy was I wrong. It took me 3 years to realize the advice, wisdom, and hope he was trying to give me as a kid. 4 years ago, I went from not believing in myself, saying “what if”, or having fear of what’s next. To graduating high school with a computer science diploma, and starting a new life at Umass Dartmouth in three weeks. I accomplished more than I ever thought I could, from listening to a man I had for 50 minutes a day, 5 days a week. With a simple but yet powerful quote I’ll always keep. “What separates the winners from the losers is what they do in their spare time.” Thank you Mr. H
Mr Howard was the first teacher to ever make me cry. It was over an algebra test that I was staying after to retake because I failed (miserably) and he refused to believe I couldn’t do better. I can say honestly that he is one of the few teachers I have ever felt cared more about our well-being and mental state than solely on us passing benchmark exams. I wouldn’t have become an educator if not for having him as my 8th grade math teacher in 2008. So very thankful to him.
When I think of a Fourth of July fireworks show I think of Mr. Howard in a math class lighting up the room with his contagious passion for teaching and learning! It has been a pleasure and an honor to work with Mr. Howard who is truly a lifechanger of the year!
Rob Howard is a loyal member of this community. He loves Brockton, loves teaching the inner city kids and loves fishing. His words of wisdom will live on through generations of students. He’s always been honest with me and has provided great advice when in conversations. His passion and drive to succeed is unmeasurable!
Rob Howard is someone who helped shift my career focus and seen my potential. Changing lives is something he’s done all throughout his career. I’m glad I was able to work alongside him. His teaching style is definitely one to emulate as well as one to respect.
I work with Rob daily and he is an awesome colleague! I have learned so many things from him over the years!
I was assigned to work with Rob Howard when he was getting an initial license to teach mathematics. Rob went to a prestigious college and could have gone into a family business or some other career but he felt that teaching was his passion. I observed him teaching on many occasions and conferences with him after his lessons. He motivated his students and empowered them to succeed. It was so clear that they felt safe and cared for. He was so intelligent yet was able to bring mathematics down to their level.
What impressed me the most about Rob is that he loved that I was mentoring him so that he could become even better. He was an amazing teacher but wanted to be better. He thanked me for my suggestions and incorporated them into subsequent lessons. He was so driven and enthusiastic.
I have mentored over one hundred mathematics teachers at the middle and high school levels. Mr. Howard stands out as the most outstanding teacher I have worked with.
That’s my dog!! Were not understood by everyone because were not like everyone were one of kind and that’s who (coach,teacher,husband,dad) Rob Howard is
Mr. Howard is indeed an inspiration for our students. I had the please of working with him a few years ago and he always brings the best out of everyone. He is definitely a life changer. May God bless him always.
I am inspired by the testimonies of all Mr Howard’s former students
their families, his colleagues, friends and his
family.
I believe he would be an exemplary and needed person to recognize in the community .
It is nice to have a person such as Mr. Robert Howard Jr teaching our children. Knowledge is powerful and Mr. Howard takes the knowledge that he has and transfers it to his students. He also teaches his students that they have values and to never let anyone takes those values from them. He knows the children are the future and he encouraged his student to be the best they can be. He is truly a life changer and should be the life changer of the year.
Robert Howard Jr is the best. I met him as a tottler. He was so smart and focused. I wanted him to be a good doctor. I am a devoted physician and I knew that he had what it takes. He loved learning and he loved teaching. He is a great man and his great work speaks for more than I ever could.
It is so nice to see Mr. Robert Howard using his gifts and talents to teach our children. Knowledge is powerful and Mr. Howard reflect that by passing on his knowledge to our children.
He teaches his students that there is value to all that they do.
Mr. Howard has been a dedicated math teacher in the Brockton Public Schools for many years. He has the respect from his colleagues, staff, and students. Mr. Howard’s teaching skills are above reproach and is worthy of being recognized as an excellent teacher.
Robert Howard Jr is a teacher who is devoted to education and ensuring all his students attain the efficacy that will allow them to become proficient in mathematics. Mr. Howard exudes the knowledge and professionalism necessary to prepare future leaders in math. Mr. Howard is an asset for any public or private school system. Schools need more teachers like Mr.Robert Howard Jr.
Robert Howard Jr is absolutely one of the most dedicated teachers I’ve ever known. He LOVES the craft of teaching young minds and at the same time being a mentor to his students. Robert’s passion for teaching was evident from a young age and he followed his passion. I am so deeply proud of him for being a godsend to the students he’s taught, the amazing father he is, and a man admired by his entire community and family.
Robert embeds this quote through teaching his students.
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.” –Martin Luther King,
Robert Howard Jr is absolutely one of the most dedicated teachers I’ve ever known. He LOVES the craft of teaching young minds and at the same time being a mentor to his students. Robert’s passion for teaching was evident from a young age and he followed his passion. I am so deeply proud of him for being a godsend to the students he’s taught, the amazing father he is, and a man admired by his entire community and family.
Mr. Robert Howard,Jr is a gifted and talented educator who has remained dedicated to teaching his students math and the math language each school day for twenty-six years. He has consistently exhibited his love and enthusiasm for teaching by applying mathematics to real life situations.
The impact that Mr. Howard leaves in a students life goes beyond the classroom itself. It carries on over with them into life’s ventures and wonders. It was an honor of mine to attend his math class, football practice, and many more every day knowing that I was going to get the best of him and he was going to bring out the best in me. Fully dedicated and committed to every single one of his students. Speaking on my behalf and the behalf of many others. A true role model in and out of the classroom who wants nothing but to make a meaningful impact on one’s life. “ what separates the winners from the losers is what they do in their spare time”.
hand down the best teacher i had in middle school, the life advice he gave me multiple times and it’s helped me become the successful person i am today
Mr. Howard was my eighth grade math teacher and not only my math teacher but he was also my mentor, he guided me through my last year of middle school. He truly did make me believe in myself and helped me gain my confidence in to use my voice and experience and be great. He always pushed me to be my better self every day, he challenged me because he knew I was capable. In a way, he definitely changed my life. :)
I had the pleasure of being a student and working alongside Mr. Howard. From a summer math challenge program virtually over the summer before 8th grade, I got a chance to learn in a way I never have with any other teacher. Mr. H taught me important life skills, furthered my love of math, and and has been a constant figure of support. He is such a genuine, kind hearted person, fully dedicated to his students. This last year I got to work under him in that same math program where I got to see all the effort he puts in his teaching. He goes above and beyond and knows how to be direct to ensure the best for his students. He has so much love and care to give. He fully deserves recognition for all his work and I am so greatful to call him a mentor. He has truly impacted my life in the best way.
Throughout my educational years, from kindergarten to college…I’ve had a numerous amount of teachers. If you were to ask me to name any of my teachers from my sophomore year in college, which was only two years ago, I honestly would not be able to tell you. But the one name that always comes to mind….and the one and only name that has had a huge impact on me is MR.HOWARD. I had the honor of being his student from 7th-8th grade. Not only did he make math my favorite subject, but he believed in me as a student, and helped me believe in myself and all the successes I could achieve! Truly an inspiring educator in the classroom AND in life!
Mr. Howard has been a great mentor/coach to me. Not only for sports, but in the classroom and life advices. I will forever be grateful for that!
Rob is an excellent teacher and mentor who went well beyond the call of duty for his students! He truly deserves this recognition.
Rob Howard was my son's 6th grade homeroom and math teacher. It was my son's first year at that school, and Rob made all the difference in the world to his academic and personal success. Why? Because he cared. He listened. He guided. He inspired. He motivated. He chided. He provided a role model for how to be a responsible, engaged adult. And yes, he taught in creative ways, leaving no student behind, always moving them forward. It has been 24 years since that wondrous year and there hasn't been a day that my son doesn't recall, with respect and love, his teacher Rob Howard.
Rob Howard was my son's 6th grade homeroom and math teacher. It was my son's first year at that school, and Rob made all the difference in the world to his academic and personal success. Why? Because he cared. He listened. He guided. He inspired. He motivated. He chided. He provided a role model for how to be a responsible, engaged adult. And yes, he taught in creative ways, leaving no student behind, always moving them forward. It has been 24 years since that wondrous year and there hasn't been a day that my son doesn't recall, with respect and love, his teacher Rob Howard.
If my kids were going to have a teacher I would want it to be Howard. He is real. Doesn’t sugar coat shit. Teaches the kids what they need to learn. He respects them if they respect him. He is someone you can count on. Recently I was buying a phone and when I used my work email, the young man ringing me up was like so you work with Howard? He was my favorite teacher please tell him I said hi. That’s when you know you make a difference. When kids are still asking about you!
Well deserved recognition for Rob!
Coach Howard is a great mentor and role model.
I am proud of him and thankful for his friendship all these years. Thanks Rob for all you have done for our students and for the Boxer Football program.
Mr. Howard was my 8th grade math teacher and the only African-American teacher i've encountered within my whole academic career. Without knowing, meeting Mr. Howard and being apart of his 8th grade class changed my life. He has not only added on to my academic knowledge but also taught me that it's more than ok to be who I am and to not change the way I am to fit into the more "desirable" standard. Meeting Mr. Howard has opened up many opportunities for me and I will forever be grateful that I met him.
Mr.Howard has always been very devoted to teaching his students. He has a tremendous impact on a lot of his students lives, and that’s what differentiates him from other teachers.
I personally had Mr.Howard years ago, and I will never forget how dedicated he was to teaching his classes Algebra all while teaching his students life lessons. He also always emphasized the importance of using your time wisely, and never giving up no matter how hard the obstacle may be. I have embedded in my head one of his famous sayings, “What separates the winners from the losers, is what they do in their spear time.” Which has personally helped me to this very day.
Thank you Mr.Howard for everything you’ve done and continue to do. I can not wait for you to teach my daughter one day. Keep up the hard work !
Robert is well deserving of this award. The lives he has affected and influenced over the years is nothing short of remarkable. I am grateful to have this gentlemen as a mentor, a colleague and most importantly, a friend.
Mr. Howard is a great teacher and coach. He has helped countless students for more than a decade
Shouting out Rob all the way from Charleston South Carolina via Thayer Academy. Rob would help me with Math in 1988-1990 in those first years of high school. Now I’m a civil engineer who mastered math thanks to that help way back when. Those students and the Brockton school system is luck to have Mr Howard. He’s a national treasure.
I hope one day we can tell those stories in person in front of your classes this fall. Perhaps the younger version of you and me are in those desks.
