Summit Hill 161 Teacher Mike Doody Recognized as Chicago Bears Classroom Legend

If you do an online search for Chicago Bears legends, you are likely to find names like Walter Payton and Dick Butkus.

Last week, the name Mike Doody was added to another list of Chicago Bears greats – the Chicago Bears Classroom Legends!

In a surprise presentation dubbed “Operation Bear Down,” the Summit Hill School District 161 teacher was recognized as a Classroom Legend by the Chicago Bears on September 24. The award recognizes exceptional educators whose commitment extends beyond their day-to-day responsibilities to support students, strengthen their schools and contribute to their communities.

Doody, a sixth-grade Math Teacher at Hilda Walker Intermediate School, was surprised with the award in front of the school’s entire sixth grade class as well as many Walker staff members and his family. Representatives from the Chicago Bears, including former player Christian Jones and mascot Staley Da Bear, shared the good news before spending time with Walker students and staff, taking photos and signing autographs, and even visiting Mr. Doody’s classroom.

“Michael Doody is the kind of teacher I wish I had, and that every child hopes to have at least once in their life,” wrote his nominator, fellow Walker Teacher Steve Radostits. “He refuses to let any student believe that they can’t learn and understands that every child learns differently. One of his greatest strengths is the time and patience he gives to students who are struggling. It’s no surprise that he has earned the nickname ‘Mr. Awesome’ around our school.”

Doody also serves as the MC during school assemblies. “Mr. Doody gives so much to our school. He is kind and funny, and he reminds us that school should be fun,” says Walker Principal Maura Carroll. “He’s also a pretty great Math teacher too!”

Launched in 2010, Classroom Legends powered by CDW shines a spotlight on educators throughout Chicagoland and the important role they play in helping young people learn, grow, and succeed. The program provides an opportunity to celebrate those who create meaningful experiences for their students and leave a lasting influence both inside and outside the classroom.

In addition to the school visit, Doody received a $1,000 grant to support his classroom, a personalized Bears jersey, and a commemorative football. He was also given tickets to the October 4 Bears home game at Soldier Field, where he had the opportunity to be on the field before the game and to be recognized on the videoboard during the game.

Doody, a Chicago Bears season ticket holder who jokes that his two favorite teams are the Bears and whoever plays the Packers, was stunned by the award presentation.

“At first, I was confused because I was told I was needed to sub for some students. When I opened the door, I was shocked to see 300 sixth graders, Staley Da Bear, and my family. I was blown away by the celebration,” said Doody.

“I am grateful for Mr. Stephen Radostits, one of our Physical Education teachers, who nominated me for this prestigious award,” added Doody. “It reminds me, like the Bears, to always do my ‘Good Better Best’ when teaching our students at Hilda Walker!”

In addition to teaching, Doody spends a lot of time volunteering. He has been a volunteer for Honor Flight Chicago for four years, greeting veterans and helping them get to where they need to be at the airport. He also answers questions, takes photos, and directs guests. He has also volunteered for an organization called Autism on the Seas (AOTS) for the last two summers. AOTS provides cruise vacation services to accommodate adults and families living with children with special needs.

Doody, a Tinley Park native who has been drumming since his school days at Victor J. Andrew High School, drums for the church band at The Stone Church in Orland Park. He also plays with the Tinley Park Community Band. In his spare time, the Lyons resident also works at Brookfield Zoo as a tram driver and tour guide, a side gig that started 18 years ago while he was student teaching.

Doody, now in his 15^th year of teaching, attended Eastern Illinois University and graduated with bachelor’s degree in Business with an emphasis in Accounting. He worked as an accountant for two different law firms over the course of 13 years before returning to school to get his teaching degree. Doody graduated with a master’s degree in Education from the University of St. Francis in Joliet with endorsements in Math and Social Studies in 2011. He worked as a substitute teacher for three years before being hired full-time at Summit Hill 161 in 2014.

“I fell in love with teaching,” recalls Doody, who got the teaching bug while helping to teach drum line at Argo High School. “No offense to any accountants, but the math doesn’t change. But the kids do!”