CAPE CORAL, Fla. — Students and staff at Ida Baker High School surprised teacher Steve Thorpe Monday morning as he returned from serving in the Army Reserve in Saudi Arabia for about a year.
The whole school was in on the surprise. The marching band played as he walked through the doors just before 7:00 a.m. Teachers, students, cheerleaders and the JROTC thanked him for his service as he returned. Students held up a big “Welcome Home” banner.
He’s a 13-year veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve. And he teaches English Learning Strategies to students with learning disabilities at Ida Baker High School.
Assistant Principal of Curriculum Virginia Ramos said she and the students are so grateful he made it back safely.
“Hallelujah! I’m super excited that he came back. He’s one of very few male ESE teachers that we have,” she said. “He’s also certified in math, which is a super bonus for us. So, I know that his kids are excited that he’s back.”
Mr. Thorpe said the warm welcome surprised him and he said he’s ready to get back to work.
