A local teacher has received a $50,000 gift for himself and his school.  Taylorville High School Teacher Matt Blomquist received $35,000 for Taylorville School District and $15,000 for himself after he won a contest from Harbor Freight. Blomquist was named a winner of the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence Tuesday morning.  Michelle Rosa, District Manager for Harbor Freight Schools, says that shop teachers need more recognition.

Blomquist said he was appreciative but speechless.

Blomquist has made with students 28 homes. They’re looking forward to #29. The house they are working on currently is at 828 West Vandeveer Street in Taylorville. 

A total of $1.25 million is being awarded to twenty high school skilled trades teachers in 15 states. We here at Regional Radio News salute you Matt Blomquist for your hard work and dedication towards your students and your craft! Click below to see a full video of the presentation.