TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Richard Booth says teaching was not his first career choice.
The Empire High CTE instructor served 21 years in the Air Force.
"It was a nice transition to be able to say, 'Hey guess what, I'm retired now, I can take my corporate knowledge and I can take it to the school system,' " Booth said.
He says his teaching philosophy involves getting students to think for themselves and work together.
"Teaching is the ability to instill creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking," Booth said.
Booth seeks to unlock hidden talents within students.
"I get to teach individuals to tap into their potential," he said.
His nomination for teacher of the year gives him the chance to shine a light on his department.
"Wow, this is fabulous for me because I can showcase our new building, our stem building, our CTE JTED building," he said.
Booth says he enjoys watching the spark of learning spread through the classroom.
"It's a joy for me to see the lightbulbs go on," he said.
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Heidi Alagha is an anchor and reporter for KGUN 9. Heidi spent 5 years as the morning anchor in Waco where she was named the best anchor team by the Texas Associated Press. Share your story ideas and important issues with Heidi by emailing heidi.alagha@kgun9.com or by connecting on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
