Thomas Schmitt

            Thomas Schmitt, 48, has been a math teacher for 27 years. He was born in Pittsburg Pennsylvania. Mr. Schmitt got his teaching degree at the California State University of Pennsylvania and then moved to South Hill, Virginia. He first taught at Park View High School in South Hill, VA. After South Hill he moved to Roanoke and bounced around jobs teaching at different place before he settled at Hidden Valley High School. He is married to his wife Theresa and has one son, Tommy.

            “When I was in college I had an experience where I was given the opportunity to work with younger kids, helping them out with math issues they were having at the time,” Mr. Schmitt said. He said after that experience, “I wanted to pursue a career in education instead of accounting.”

            When Mr. Schmitt finally got his teaching degree he began to teach at Park View High School and eventually found himself here teaching at Hidden Valley and at Virginia Western Community College. Mr. Schmitt said that at times teaching can be stressful and “The most difficult part of my job is trying to relate information to students in a way that is meaningful to them.” He went on to say that the most rewarding part of teaching is when he helps a student succeed. Mr. Schmitt hopes to become a principle before he retires.

            Mr. Schmitt is genuinely dedicated to his work and has worked for years improving the Roanoke County community through educating and inspiring the youth. It’s because of his tireless efforts and motivation that he should be recognized a Hidden Hero.