Pat McLeod, a former history teacher at Van Vleck ISD, was recently honored for his dedication to education. After teaching for 29 years, he retired and began self-publishing his poetry, a passion he’s had since he was 12. Many of his poems are inspired by his late wife, Jean, and each birthday and anniversary sparks a new poem in her memory. Proceeds from his book sales go towards local scholarships in Matagorda County, a cause close to his heart as he himself was put through school because of scholarships.