DAR Teacher of the Year from Sandy Creek HS

Langford has a passion not only for American History and for teaching it for it’s intrinsic worth to young Americans but also for each of his students to learn to bring history to the present.  “How can we learn from this event?” is a frequent question in Mr. Langford’s American History classes.  He exudes energy when talking about students in his classes, always looking for innovative ways to not only teach American History, but to teach “thinking.”  

“Students may forget the history.  I hope they won’t but even if they do, they need to know how to think. . .how to study so they will know how to find out what they think.  American History is a very good place to learn thinking.” states Langford.  

Each classroom encounter is designed for maximum learning – whether role playing by students or Langford, interactive and sometimes provocative questions, exhibits intended to pique curiosity rather than just “show and tell”  – and always stimulating the student to think for themselves, to delve, dig and find the Truth rather than taking someone else’s opinion as their opinion.  

In addition to teaching American History and its relevance to today's society, Langford is an avid cyclist, especially for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, an avid Boston Red Sox fan, and has recently restored his own piece of Americana:  An original over-seven foot Shoney's Big Boy statue which now resides in Langford's American History classroom at Sandy Creek.

The Outstanding American History Teacher of the Year Award and Pin is given annually to a teacher of American History chosen by the General Daniel Newnan Chapter as well as other DAR Chapters.  Contact Karol Vella, Chapter Historian, 770-252-6116 for guidelines and recommendations for 2008-2009 Outstanding American History Teacher of the Year.   Langford was selected from 6 area high schools served by the General Daniel Newnan Chapter.

The General Daniel Newnan Chapter meetings monthly, every third Saturday.  All meetings are open; new members and guests are welcome.   Contact Jeannine Jackson, Membership Chair for meeting and membership information, 770-253-6517.