Aaron Miller died 352 days ago. The pain, regret and sadness Lemke feels still have her in a state of shock, especially during the holiday season.

In the midst of it all, there are also moments of hope that Lemke believes will help keep Miller’s legacy alive.

The Fort Dodge Community Schools Foundation recently announced a scholarship in Miller’s name has been established through his family for two graduating Fort Dodge Senior High seniors — one male and one female — who are pursuing degrees in education.

The first recipients will be announced this spring.

-Submitted file photo
Aaron Miller works with a student in his seventh-grade social studies class at the Fort Dodge Middle School in this fall 2023 photo. A scholarship fund has been established in his name.

“It’s a perfect way to honor Aaron’s memory,” Lemke said. “Aaron always wanted to be an educator, even at a very young age. He had teachers like Mr. (Bill) Lehmkuhl (at FDSH) — his absolute favorite — get him closer to that dream and push him in the right direction.

“The kids in this community meant the world to Aaron, because in his mind, he was helping them see their potential and shape their future the way so many teachers and coaches did for him. Setting up this scholarship is something we felt will keep that connection to kids who relate to his passion for education.”

FDCS Foundation Director Nik Moser recently met with Lemke to discuss the specifics of the memorial scholarship. A selection committee was established, along with rules and regulations for applying candidates.

“We haven’t really gone the scholarship route before (through the Foundation), but knowing how much Aaron not only supported us in our endeavors but the kids of our district, we felt this was a great place to start,” Moser said. “We have the same vision he did: putting our kids first. Helping them grow while they’re here, while setting them up for a better future with more opportunities as they become adults. That’s one of our main missions, and it’s also what Aaron was all about.”

Students will be asked to write an essay for the committee to review, explaining their individual motivation for entering the field of education.

“Aaron didn’t do this to feel powerful or superior (to students),” Lemke said. “It was never about that. He met them at their level and got to know them. He personalized those relationships and wanted to reach those kids individually.”

Lemke paused, her voice trembling as she spoke of her son’s gift.

“The connection was so sincere. And it meant as much to him as it did to the kids. He had such a big heart. He loved them all.”

Miller was 35 years old at the time of his fatal car accident last January. A Fort Dodge Senior High graduate, Miller was a long-time teacher and coach in the district. He also served as an assistant principal at the Fort Dodge Middle School.