Simpsonville Man State's School Volunteer of the Year

The State Board of Education has recognized Peter Bergstrom, a long-time volunteer at Simpsonville Elementary, as the 2013 SBE Individual Volunteer of the Year. 

"Mr. Peter, as he is lovingly known, unselfishly gives his time to each child he tutors, creating encouraging and supportive relationships with students at Simpsonville Elementary School," said a news release from Greenville County Schools. "Mr. Peter arrives at 7:00 every morning to set up 32 computers for the math tutorial program. At 7:15 his welcoming smile greets students who need a tutoring in math skills or English fluency."  

Bergstrom works with 4th and 5th grade ESOL students and other students to reinforce math facts and concepts. Through his active involvement on the School Improvement Council, he encouraged administrators to initiate a "Math Race" which challenged students to learn math facts. This initiative quickly caught on and his efforts to improve math proficiency have resulted in steadily improving scores on the PACT and PASS math tests.  

Not only is Bergstrom committed to helping students achieve in math, he also focuses on their success in science. He developed interactive PowerPoint lessons for 5th graders on DNA and cell structure, which presented rigorous concepts in a student-friendly manner. He volunteered to judge the school's Science Bee which encourages development in science vocabulary and concepts. As a result, PASS science scores have shown continuing improvement.

While Bergstrom is a mentor and inspiration to students, his presence and passion have permeated the staff and parents at Simpsonville Elementary, school and district officials said.  He contributed to writing the school's Red Carpet Schools application and readily shares ideas for school improvement after carefully and quietly studying students' needs. Teachers at Simpsonville said they appreciate Bergstrom as an ally in their efforts to meet each student's needs and as he continues to serve students when they transition from elementary to middle school.

When Bergstrom retired as an engineer with Fluor, his son counseled him to be creative. He has remarkably demonstrated his creativity through many years of volunteer service with the Greenville Literacy Association, the National Park Service, and Simpsonville Elementary School, the district said.