BOB BUCHANAN
Bob Buchanan was an excellent Abingdon High School teacher and coach who remains an enduring model of inspiration for current students and instructors.
A tough — but fair — coach, Buchanan brought out the best in everyone he met, whether on the ballfield or in the classroom. Because of his tremendous influence, many students and players remained in touch long after graduation, continuing to seek his wisdom and guidance.
The first award will be given in the spring of 2023 to an AHS senior who embodies Buchanan’s many traits: integrity, fortitude, selflessness, passion, compassion and humility.
Beginning in 2024, this award will be presented annually to a pair of former AHS educators who have inspired many students throughout their careers.
June 21, 1999
Dear Mr. Buchanan,
I am writing this letter as part of an assignment that was given to us during the Mentor Teacher Program at Emory and Henry College. Our assignment is to write a letter to the teacher who influenced us the most when we were in school. You are that teacher.
I was in your Pre-Algebra during the 1980-81 school year. Your explanations of equations and other material made it so easy for the students to grasp. You were strict, you knew your subject matter, and were very fair in your grading policy. Making an A in your class was a rewarding experience because it had been attained by hard work. There was no “goofing off” in your class, all of the students had the utmost respect for you. At times you were funny, giving us all new names, such as “Rhonda Sue or Cindy Lou”………. that made us feel so special.
I have been teaching at Damascus Middle School for the past 8 years, where I teach Algebra and Pre-Algebra. I only had one student not pass their Algebra SOL test this past year and I attribute that success to the fact that you taught us to use the reciprocal property to solve all equations. I still remember your telling us that that property would work in every situation regardless of whether we were working with decimals or fractions. I have passed this information on to my students and they have experienced success.
I would like to thank you for being such a wonderful teacher. You definitely influence a lot of children. Washington County has experienced a loss with your retirement. I hope you enjoy it.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Mossholder
