“Dr. Clark’s calm and nurturing presence creates an environment where students feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Clark has made a significant impact through her work with the First Lego League robotics team.”

“Dr. Clark is the model teacher we all hope our children have, especially i these hard middle school years. She really is a teacher who loves what she does!”

“When I attended college, I didn't have plans to become a teacher. My degree was in chemistry, and later I attended graduate school to get my Ph. D. My goal was to teach chemistry at a college and do scientific research, and I did that for a while. After having children, I volunteered at my son’s school, and I really enjoyed helping kids with math and reading. Substitute teaching was the start of my current career. Much of what I have learned over the past twelve years is from watching and listening to other amazing teachers around me at work, and teachers who made school a great experience for my own kids have also inspired me. I value working in an environment where teachers can share ideas, from both a new teacher to a very experienced teacher, and where we all hope for the best for students. Sometimes I look at where I am now, doing science experiments and talking about molecules with 7th graders, and I’m glad life takes you on interesting trips you originally did not plan on. My favorite times in class are when we are doing labs or just having a great class discussion to explain our thinking.”

“Dr. Clark’s love for teaching and commitment to kids extends to all students as well, and not just students who are budding scientists. I can easily point to her work this year with a student who has a hard time staying in class and making good choices. With this student, she is patient, but firm and has a short memory for unkind words or outbursts. With a teacher like Dr. Clark, there is always a fresh start the next day.

“Greenhouse club is another area where Dr. Clark is a leader. She spends many additional hours after school and on her own time planning and organizing this club for green thumbs in our building. They grow produce, learn about hydro- and aqua-ponics, and build a community through teamwork.”

Each finalist for Teacher of the Year had interviews with two judges: Lori DeAnda, retired Assistant Superintenent, Human Resources, Grandview C-4 School District; and Eric Punswick, Chief Human Resources Officer, Blue Valley (Kan.) School District.  

The judges were impressed with all of the finalists and noted their passion for teaching and for the students. They said the all of the finalists are great representatives of the District.

In selecting Clark as Teacher of the Year, the judges commented on her love of teaching and her commitment to always improving. They were impressed with her efforts to differentiate instruction, her emphasis on sharing and collaboration, and her knowledge of educational issues. One judge summed it up, saying "She's a gem."

Hruska was nominated by Dr. Lisa Hatfield, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. 

She wrote: “Rain or shine, he greets students with a warm smile and kind word, making the daily journey to and from school a positive and safe experience. Ed’s impact extends far beyond the crosswalk. He serves as a role model for our students, demonstrating the values of kindness, respect, and, dependability.”

“My goal every day is to see the children arrive safely at school in the morning and return safely to their homes in the afternoon. Sounds simple, but I guess that is kind of it in a nutshell. I hope I’m making a difference in this way.”

Rebecca Kolkmeier said his dedication, reliability, and positive presence make him an invaluable member of the school community.

She said that his impact goes beyond just safety - “he embodies the spirit of Eagle Glen elementary. His work may take place outside the classroom, but the lessons he teaches through his kindness, dependability, and service leave a lasting impression on everyone he meets.”

Each finalist for the Support Staff Employee of the Year award had an interview with two judges: Sheba Clarke, Public Relations Coordinator, Grandview C-4 School District, and Lisa Cummings, Human Resources Consultant and former Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources, Belton School District.

The judges were impressed with all of the finalists. They said they all have a heart for students and love their jobs and the direction in which the District is headed. The judges noted their professionalism and enthusiasm.

In selecting Hruska, they said they loved how committed he is to providing the first safe face that students see in the morning on the way to school. They noted that he is very humble - he told them, “The people in the building do the real job.” They were impressed with his kindness and dedication.