U.S. Rep. Susan Wild recognized a Panther Valley School District teacher last week in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week.

“I’m thrilled to recognize one of the many educators who has made an incredible impact on the lives of kids in my community: Mr. Mark Lavine,” she said on the House floor in Washington, D.C., on Thursday.

A sixth-grade math teacher, Lavine also serves as high school football coach, adviser for the academic quiz challenge and organizer of school Spirit Day, she said.

“Hardworking and compassionate, Mr. Lavine doubled the size of his math classes to cover for a colleague on a leave of absence, twice,” she said. “He’s known as the ‘big brother’ on staff as a mentor to new teachers, and his energy inspires a love and curiosity for math in his students.

“Mr. Lavine epitomizes the dedication of so many educators across PA-7, who foster a lifelong love for learning in our kids,” Wild said.

“This week and every week, thank a teacher who made a difference in your life, your child’s life, or a loved one’s life,” she said. “Someone like Panther Valley’s Mr. Lavine.”

Panther Valley Superintendent David McAndrew Jr. said the district is thrilled to have Lavine recognized by Congressman Wild.

“Mr. Lavine is a coach, mentor and a tremendous teacher,” he said. “He is truly a person that comes to work every day to not only teacher our students, but also guide them to make great decisions.

“He goes above and beyond as a sixth-grade math teacher. He is a great representative of the Panther family,” McAndrew said.

Teacher Appreciation Week was May 8 to 12, winding down this past Friday.