Putnam City High School History Teacher Wayde Coleman has been named a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). The Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction award recognizes teacher role models who have made a lasting difference in their classroom by encouraging students to strive for excellence.

"Dedicated educators who exhibit a commitment to excellence deserve our highest praise and appreciation," says NSHSS President James Lewis. "We're excited to provide an ongoing means to do so, and we encourage our members to nominate teachers who have contributed to their academic success."

Coleman was nominated by student Shaundra Hicks for outstanding dedication and commitment to excellence in the classroom. Each year, student members of NSHSS have the opportunity to nominate the educator who had made the most significant contribution to their academic careers.

"Mr. Coleman not only covers all aspects of our books, he relates what we learn to the real world. Some teachers teach only what is in the textbook, but he goes out of his way to educate us in today's politics. He’s passionate about teaching us and makes history more exciting," Hick says.

Coleman teaches Advanced Placement United States History and Advanced Placement European History at Putnam City High. He’s taught at Putnam City High for 12 years.

Dr. Don Wentroth, principal of Putnam City High, says Coleman’s presence in the building enriches both students and teachers.

"Mr. Coleman is an outstanding educator. He uses innovative and relevant learning experiences to stimulate discussions and makes the study of United States and European History relevant to his students. He is also a teacher of teachers as he leads our Social Studies department to having some of the highest state testing scores in our building," says Wentroth.

Formed in 2002, the NSHSS recognizes academic excellence at the high school level and encourages members of the organization to apply their unique talents, vision and potential for the betterment of themselves and the world. The organization’s board of advisors includes 10 Nobel Prize winners as well as luminaries such as Maya Angelou, the celebrated poet, memoirist, novelist, educator, historian, actress, filmmaker and civil rights activist; Larry Griffith, Vice President of the Gates Millennium Scholars Program for the United Negro College Fund; and Ed Harris, an actor, director and producer.