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SABINE PASS — Standing in the foyer of Sabine Pass School flanked by banners and plaques showing the school’s many accomplishments, math teacher/coach Christian Stewart noted the reasons for the success.

“I think it’s just everybody on the same accord, all of us, we all have to do our job the best we can and it all comes together,” Stewart said. “We all understand there’s going to be challenges, hurdles, and if you need some help, just go ask for help.”

Stewart isn’t unfamiliar with success himself.

He led the Sharks basketball team, this season, to their first regional tournament in school history, while also juggling three STAAR-tested subjects, noted high school principal Kathleen Finn.

Stewart, she added, motivates his players and students to do their best and keeps an open line of communication with those needing extra support.

Stewart was recognized Tuesday as Teacher of the Month, sponsored by Philpott Motors. The honor comes with a $500 gift card and puts him in the running for Teacher of the Year, which is awarded in December and comes with a $1,000 gift card.

Stewart spent one year teaching in Beaumont Independent School District and the next five years at Sabine Pass School, teaching math for grades sixth to 11^th, as well as coaching varsity basketball and track.

He’s also the father of three girls, ages 2, 1 and three-months, who are right there with him at the school in the daycare program.

He credits the environment at the school with allowing him to be a successful teacher and parent.

“It’s a great environment for family,” he said.

Finn said Stewart has a positive attitude and is eager to ensure the success of all of his students, in the classroom and in the athletic domain.

Stewart doesn’t want to take too much credit for the Sharks performance, he said.

The student-athletes went out there and listened to him, though he felt like he only yelled at them, Stewart joked.

As for being named teacher of the Month, Stewart said he feels incredibly honored.

“From where I started and this whole journey of education, all of these things,” he said. “It’s like basketball this year, I never thought I’d get to that, and this is another statement that I’m doing a good job.”