New Bedford Teacher Surprised as Fun 107 Teacher of the Month

Students and staff at Carney Academy in New Bedford received a surprise visit from the MGM Show this week. Fun 107 was there to award the latest Teacher of the Month.

Jordan Methia, a coordinator within the New Bedford Public Schools Special Education Services department, was recognized for his extraordinary work supporting students with special needs across the district’s elementary schools.

Fun 107’s Teacher of the Month program recognizes outstanding educators across the SouthCoast, based on nominations submitted by students, parents, and colleagues. Each month, the MGM Show selects one teacher who goes above and beyond for their students.

Supporting Students With Special Needs

Methia works with children who require modified physical education and individualized support, helping ensure every student has the opportunity to participate in activities alongside their peers.

According to his nomination, Methia meets each child where they are, creating an environment where students feel capable, included, and celebrated.

His work extends beyond instruction. Methia often designs and builds interactive equipment to better serve students with unique physical, developmental, and emotional needs.

During the MGM Show visit, Methia shared one example of that creativity.

“For a few students who are in wheelchairs, I built a plow using PVC pipe to help them be included in gym class,” he said.

Special Olympics Unified Sports Day

Methia also coordinated the 2025 Special Olympics Unified Sports Day for New Bedford Public Schools. The event brought together students from across the district for track and field activities throughout May and June. Every student felt like a winner.

What Makes Teaching So Rewarding

When asked what he enjoys most about his job, Methia gave a simple answer.

“Just smiles and laughter and seeing the kids being happy,” he said.

He also reflected on what his work means to families in the community.

“They’re sending their child to school and giving them the chance to play with their peers,” Methia said. “They’re grateful, and I just hope to keep helping families in the city.”

Methia received a BJ’s membership, a 200 dollar BJ’s gift card, and a big screen smart TV thanks to Vermette Development and Jonathan Sprouts Skin Care.