A teacher at Lacombe Composite High School is being recognized for his work with two student groups.

Steven Schultz was recently named Citizen of the Year by the Lacombe and District Chamber of Commerce.

He is an advisor for both the school’s environmental and robotics clubs.

The teacher called the award a “tremendous honour.”

“It’s a reflection of not only the work that’s been done but a reflection of the students’ effort and energy that has gone into most of those projects. As well as the openness to our community to receive the work that my students and I have put forward,” Schultz said.

His EcoVision Club was behind the Beewise Project, where students can learn to become certified beekeepers for credit. They are also taught to market the honey they produce.

The project has expanded, with the club partnering with the City of Lacombe to take over its urban beekeeping program. Under the pilot project, students craft a five-step process and provide expertise for those interested in keeping bees on their property.

Schultz said Lacombe County is also interested in having the club manage its acreage beekeeping workshop in the winter.

The teacher is also heavily involved in the United Robotics of Lacombe (URL), a group of four robotics teams that participate in FIRST competitions.

Schultz said URL has started robotics clubs and mentored them in Blackfalds, Alix and Clive.

"Our goal has always been to develop student leaders that help the environment, that enhance their education and collaborate with the community," he said. "And our goal has always been to share our ideas and inspire others to do likewise."