Most students walk into in-school suspension feeling defeated, but they walk out of Gary Wood’s classroom a little lighter. With a voice of discipline and hope for their future, a listening ear and a belief that no student is too far gone, Wood has turned discipline into second chances, giving hope to the kids who need it most.

“Since I retired in 2003, I had two non-teaching positions. One in Wyoming with F.C.A. and the other with Cabela’s in the gun library here in Rogers,” Wood said. “To be truthful, I have not even thought of doing any other ‘role,’ or retiring.”

From the moment he began his new role as the in-school suspension teacher 11 years ago, Wood knew he had found where he was needed. What might feel like a purgatory job for some teachers became his calling. A place where he could see students at their lowest and remind them they still had worth and could start anew.

“He saw me in a way that I could change because he doesn’t think that anyone is bad, or too far gone; he just wants you to be better,” said Alexa Harvey, 10.

To almost all students who end up in discipline situations, Wood is more than the teacher who supervised their suspension, but rather he’s the one who believes in them.

Annabella Mason, 12, said he tells them to finish their work and stay productive, wanting the best for their schooling, while also keeping the room light with his humor. To them, Wood isn’t just the ISS teacher, he’s their favorite teacher.

“He’s my favorite teacher and I don’t think he’s ever going to retire, so I know I can always come here to visit him,” Harvey said.

The teachers in the building also see Wood’s impact. The deans say his presence in the ISS room has changed what could feel like a punishment into an opportunity for students to grow. They describe him as a steady influence, someone who holds students accountable for what they did while also giving them the encouragement they need to believe they can do better.

“We were a team and truly cared for one another. Everyday was an adventure with Gary in the hall with us. He always brought energy!” said Tony Roller, U.S history and civics teacher.