Former Army captain helps math students build self-confidence Posted Monday, Mar. 8 2010
By Rebecca LaFlure/Killeen, TX "Daily Herald"
 
 
When Jason Mallory left the Army after six years, he knew he wanted to continue to serve – this time to the younger generation.
 
Mallory, a former captain, began teaching math at Killeen High School four years ago, and strives to build confidence in each of his students.
 
"Most students come into class with a low opinion of their math skills," he said.
 
"I tell them that there's a difference between being lost and a couple mistakes away from being successful."
 
His dedication to his students recently earned him a Killeen Daily Herald Excellence in Teaching Award.
 
KHS Principal Michael Sibberson nominated Mallory, 33, for the honor, citing that Mallory is one of the most caring, determined people he's known in his 22 years as an educator.
 
"He has made such a true difference in the lives of so many students," Sibberson wrote. "He simply does not give up on people."
 
Mallory grew up in Neillsville, Wis., and went on to attend West Point for electrical engineering. He said he always knew he wanted to become a teacher after serving in the military.
 
"I wanted to be a part of career that served a bigger purpose," he said. "I knew I wanted to try teaching. It was just a matter of when."
 
Mallory said he loves working with students and watching them grow mathematically and as young adults.
 
"I love hearing after a student takes the SAT that they remembered the math problems we worked in class," he said. "And they think they nailed it."
 
He credits his success to allowing students to make corrections on their tests. Each student works with a partner and discusses what they did right and wrong.
 
"When I hand the tests back, it's not, 'OK, you failed. Now let's move on,'" he said. "I want them to learn from their mistakes."
 
He also stays after school to tutor students and tries to form a personal relationship with each of them by attending their track meets and football games, he said.
 
Mallory said he plans to continue teaching and working to make an impact on his students.
 
"This is where I want to be," he said.