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             Article from the Galesburg Register-Mail:

In his 35 years at Nielson Elementary School, Jim Jacobs has learned parental involvement is the key to a child's success.  That is why Jacobs started visiting his students' homes three years ago.  With the exception of two new students, Jacobs has visited everyone in his homeroom class this year.

Jacobs, a fifth-grade teacher, is the Galesburg Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year.  He will retire at the end of the 2003-2004 school year. 

Jacobs said there is a difference between involved parents and high profile parents.  He said high profile parents often volunteer for school functions.  Involved parents sit down with their kids every night, call the teacher and check homework, Jacobs said. 

Wal-Mart awarded Jacobs a $1,000 grant for an educational program at Nielson.  He was selected from 50 area nominees. He was nominated by fourth-grader Cody Jones.

Jacobs was humble Tuesday when he received the award at a surprise assembly at the school.  He said his fellow teachers at Nielson all work hard and deserve recognition too. 

According to the nomination essay, Jones wrote Jacobs has had history competitions, directed a skit from the book "To Kill a Mockingbird", coached the Nielson Nighthawks basketball team, conducted a chess game during recess and coached the school's geography bowl team. 

Matthew LeClere, principal at Neilson, said Jacobs also conducted an after-school reading program this year for fifth graders. LeClere said Jacobs' dedication is an example of all the teachers at Nielson.  "Every teacher in this building goes above and beyond." LeClere said "At every level they will stay after hours to benefit children... Jim is the model of that."

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Jim Jacobs is our Classmate from the Class of 1964 and we are proud to recognize Jim's accomplishments for his devotion to teaching and going the extra mile that sets the example for others to follow. 

Also, Nikki,  one of  Jim and Hattie's daughters, is an up and coming actress and you can view at her website at www.nikkijacobs.com .

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