Dille honored as influential teacher

    Holyoke teacher and coach Scott Dille was recognized Friday, Aug. 11, at an awards program at Denver Botanic Gardens for the significant impact he’s had on Boettcher scholar Austin Herman.
     Each of this year’s 42 Boettcher scholars had the opportunity to honor an influential teacher at the 26th annual program hosted by the Boettcher Foundation.
     As part of the program, the students delivered remarks about the teachers whom they nominated for the honor. Each teacher received a $1,000 grant from the foundation to be used toward an educational program or project to benefit students at their school.
     Herman addressed the gathered group Friday night, reading a letter to Dille. His presentation incorporated the following: “Scott Dille is an inspiration to everyone in the rural community of Holyoke. He is not only an outstanding educator but also an excellent father and role model for all of his students.
     “By teaching students how to not only maintain a healthy outlook on life but also lead productive and meaningful lives, Mr. Dille provides a rare preparedness for real life experiences.
     “His unique approach to teaching earned him recognition within the Holyoke School District, with an award recognizing heart in the classroom being awarded to him this past year.
     “Mr. Dille also applies his unique and effective philosophy to coaching, creating respectable young men before focusing on the aspects of the sport that many coaches jump to.
     “This strategy has proved rewarding, with a 2A boys basketball state championship and coach of the year award coming with the end of the past season.
     “Coach Dille fosters not only a passion for excellence in his basketball program and classroom but also one of support and respectfulness. I am blessed to have had this man as a teacher, coach, role model, mentor and friend.”

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