Whitney’s love for his students, teaching and his school was returned Friday when he was recognized by his family, students, fellow faculty, friends and government officials as the top teacher in Maine in the Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club Teacher of the Year program.

The honor earned him a $10,000 cash prize to be used at his discretion in the schools.

Cindy Turcotte, the Palmyra Wal-Mart manager who announced the award during a school assembly, said it was "overwhelming" what Whitney has done for his students. "This guy is absolutely outstanding," she said.

Whitney had been named Wal-Mart’s Regional Teacher of the Year and earlier received a $1,000 cash prize. His name will be entered into the national competition.

"I feel like I’m on ‘The Price is Right’ or something," Whitney said as he faced the full auditorium. "This is very humbling."

Tearing up as he took a big breath of air and let it out, Whitney said he had enjoyed teaching for 19 years at the same school from which he had graduated. That enjoyment comes mostly from his students, he said.

"They empower me in everything," Whitney said. "I’m like a vampire; I feed off their energy and enthusiasm."

Whitney also extended his love and thanks to his family, who he said have been very patient and understanding about his love of teaching.

The popular history teacher also thanked his mentors, including family members and Tim Wilson, a DRHS coach and teacher, who taught Whitney as a student. He said Wilson showed him how important it is to leave a legacy behind, one of giving back more than one takes.

"I really accept this award on behalf of the staff. To be singled out is very humbling," Whitney said.

While Dexter Regional High School Principal Steve Bell credited all of his staff members for their dedication and support, he said the characteristic that made Whitney shine was his tendency to be a 24-hour teacher. Bell said Whitney cares more about his students than he does himself; he devotes many extra hours to making his classes interesting; and he serves as Key Club adviser, a group that has raised more than $13,000 for community projects.

Outside the classroom, Whitney serves as curator of the Dexter Historical Society and museums, and is a member of the Kiwanis Club.

His dedication to school and community prompted town officials to designate Oct. 19, 2007, Richard Whitney Day in Dexter.

While the assembly was held to recognize Whitney’s current achievement, it also gave students a chance to thank a teacher who has been quick to commend and recognize them for their accomplishments. And they did so with one standing ovation after another.

"He just gives us so much respect, that’s why we respect him so much," Key Club member Jordan Conway said Friday.

Another student in the back of the auditorium summed it up for most of the students when he yelled, "We love you, Mr. Whitney."
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Saturday, October 20, 2007 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."