Brian Blackney receives Golden Apple Award

Walled Lake Western social studies teacher, Brian Blackney, received a Golden Apple Award at the December 5, 2024 Board of Education meeting.

Blackney was nominated by Walled Lake Western parent, Terri Szymanski, because he is not only knowledgeable about the subject matter he teaches but also is able to engage and inspire students.

“Brian is not your typical History teacher,” said Szymanski. “His passion for history is evident in every lesson he teaches, and his enthusiasm is contagious.”

“Brian has a unique way of making even the most mundane historical facts come alive by using interactive activities, multiple presentation formats, and real-world examples to engage his students,” added Szymanski. “From time to time, he can even be found wearing a pirate costume, talking like a pirate and even using the harmonica to help history come alive for students.”

Blackney’s dedication to his students goes beyond the classroom. He helps students with their assignments, encourages them when they are having a rough day, and offers guidance and support. He takes the time to get to know each student individually, understanding their strengths, weaknesses, interests, and instructs them according to their needs. This fall he also participated in the school musical, “The Addams Family”, by playing Lurch.

“Brian remains calm and offers an empathetic ear during a student’s heightened level of emotions,” said Szymanski. “He shows kindness towards his students helping him build a lasting connection and earning their trust. The students feel comfortable being themselves which encourages them to be more active in class.”

“Brian is a great role model for his students,” concluded Szymanski. “He demonstrates the important value of hard work, dedication and resilience. He has a positive way to influence students’ attitudes, and beliefs.”

Blackney will be deeply missed at Walled Lake Western by his students, staff and the community as he will retire in January.