Teacher’s program gets gift

The first few days of the school year are usually full of excitement, some surprises and plenty of new beginnings.

That held true Tuesday for a local special education teacher, whose midday surprise not only boosted his spirits but also his budding after-school soccer program for at-risk youngsters.

Orr Middle School teacher Ben Pacht received a $25,000 grant from Jenny's Heroes, a foundation set up by former TV talk show host Jenny Jones.

Jones shared the news via speaker phone with a stunned Pacht, who turned bright red and teared up during the call as fellow teachers, staff and students cheered him.

"Thanks, thanks a lot," the flustered Pacht said into the receiver.

The 24-year-old Ohio native said he will use the grant for new soccer equipment and facilities for the Las Vegas Middle School Soccer League, which is in its third year and serves hundreds of students at 16 area middle schools.

The students are required to attend homework help sessions before hitting the field. Pacht arranges for mentors from UNLV to speak with the youngsters about the benefits of going to college.

"I don't think you realize the impact," Jones said. "It was just you and your idea. I saw that application and said 'absolutely.'"

Pacht started the program soon after moving to Las Vegas, often digging into his own pocket to cover costs. The need for outside funding stemmed from the program's sudden growth to 15 other schools and from budget cuts in the school district.

"The money just wasn't there," he said.

He applied for a handful of grants but said he didn't expect things to pan out.

"I was shocked I got the whole $25,000," he said. "I tried to emphasize that it wouldn't be for a year supply of something. These are things we can use for years."

Pacht, a high school soccer player, said he has witnessed the benefits of his program beyond the field.

"I've seen one girl go from getting into fights all the time to all A's," he said. "Also, I'm seeing more open up to the prospect of college. Most don't think it was something they could do."

Thirteen-year-old Claudia Banobre has been in the program from the start. She giggled as Pacht, who is her soccer coach and math teacher, walked into the packed principal's office, thinking he was there to discuss busing issues.

She said she is more confident with her schoolwork.

"He is always pushing us to do better," she said. "He's a super kind person and always believes in us to do better.

"This is a very good program if you want to be changed."

Jones said Pacht is the youngest grant recipient to be supported by the foundation, which has awarded $125,000 in gifts to date.

Orr Principal George Leavens said the grant is in good hands.

"He has a good relationship with all the kids, he's a natural," Leavens said. "This reassures my hope in humanity and that good things happen to people who help kids."