Michael Coleman stands among his colleagues and Jamie Byrd at Highland Elementary School in Glasgow on Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2021. Coleman was one of several people recognized this year as a part of Helping the Hardworking’s Christmastime tradition. From left: Byrd, Coleman, Amanda Norris and Jennifer Myers.
(BRENNAN CRAIN/WCLU NEWS)
GLASGOW, Ky. — A helping hand and well-respected educator at Highland Elementary was honored Wednesday for his strength and perseverance during a difficult time in his life.
David Coleman was called to the office of the school to find a beaming trio of coworkers and Jamie Byrd, founder of Helping the Hardworking, Inc. Byrd held an envelope stuffed with gift cards and other incentives to area businesses. Everything in her hand went to Coleman.
The father and teacher said the last few months have brought a lot of negative experiences — his wife’s death and his cancer diagnosis.
“It’s been rough, but like I said, I’m just happy we have people that are helping us get through this time, and hopefully I can keep going with my flight because I’m doing really well,” Coleman said. “That’s just what it’s about — just keep going forward.”
Amanda Norris, a fellow teacher, nominated Coleman. She said Coleman brought new perspective when his family arrived about three years ago. Coleman is from New York, he said.
“He’s always here to help any kid in the building,” Norris said.
Byrd said she chose to recognize Coleman because of his background. The untimely loss of his wife and his struggle with stage four cancer moved her to honor him.
“But he’s teaching. He has two children,” Byrd said. “They have no family in the area, and this man is honestly putting forth to go and do still with everything he’s going through.”
Helping the Hardworking is a non-profit group in Barren County. The program started to honor those whose put in extra work but may otherwise never receive recognition.
About 15 people are slated to be recognized for their work by the weekend, Byrd said. Groups like healthcare workers and others are also recognized through the initiative.
