Bourne PE Teacher Larry Kelsch Recognized For Strength in Cancer Fight

The MGM Show brought a big moment to Bourne Intermediate School this week, surprising physical education teacher Larry Kelsch as Fun 107's Teacher of the Month during a whole school assembly with the entire student body and staff.

Why Larry Kelsch Was Named Teacher of the Month

During the visit, we read parts of nomination letters to the crowd outlining why Kelsch's story rose about the rest. Out of the hundreds of submissions we receive each month here at Fun 107, Kelsch's name rose to the top because he makes all of his students feel like they matter.

What the Nomination Letter Said

In the nomination letter, colleague Lisa Niland described Kelsch as "caring, enthusiastic and genuinely passionate about teaching." She wrote that he "creates a fun, welcoming PE environment where students feel encouraged, supported and excited to participate." Niland said Kelsch takes time to connect with every student and makes each one feel valued and included, adding that his positive attitude makes PE something students look forward to.

Kelsch has also been battling cancer. Niland wrote that despite treatments and exhaustion, he has continued to show up for students and bring energy and positivity to the gym. She added that students see him as a real life example of perseverance and courage.

That message was echoed by Kelsch himself during the schoolwide announcement. He thanked students and staff and said it has been the kids who have given him the energy to keep fighting, adding that he loves being at school and is working to be there as much as he can.

Kelsch has the ability to make simple things memorable. One winter, he ordered snowshoes and taught students how to use them during a stretch of heavy snowstorms. "It was not just a lesson," said Niland, "but an adventure students remembered for years."

The MGM Show thanked program sponsors Vermette Development, Jonathan Sprouts Skin Care and First Citizens Federal Credit Union, which provided prizes for Kelsch, including a BJ’s membership and a BJ’s gift card. Vermette Development also helped surprise Kelsch with a new smart TV in time for the Super Bowl.

How to Nominate a Fun 107 Teacher of the Month

Teachers can be nominated year round through the Fun 107 app or Fun107.com.