Northwest School District Names Teacher of the Year Finalists

The Northwest School District announced the names of three finalists for its the 2013 Teacher of the Year Award. The Teacher of the Year program is designed to honor and recognize the efforts certified teachers. The three finalists were selected from 19 nominations and multiple applications.

The finalists are:

• Elementary School Level: Emelia Walters, High Ridge Elementary – Kindergarten Teacher
• Middle School Level: Sharon Plut, Valley Middle School – 6th Grade Teacher
• High School Level: Rebecca Wells, Northwest High School – Math Teacher

During the annual Employee Recognition Night on May 6, Emelia Walters was named the Northwest Teacher of the Year and will move on to compete for the Missouri State Teacher of the Year designation.

The Northwest Apple Awards (for cetrtified staff members not eligible for Teacher of the Year) and Golden Bell Awards (for support staff members) also were announced.

The Apple Award recipients are:

• Jeanne Rothermel, Central Office – executive director for Student Services
• Kristine Alphin, Northwest High School – guidance counselor
• Laura Ruch, House Springs Elementary – 4th Grade teacher

Golden Bell Awards recipients are:

• Nicole Crull, Valley Middle School – Paraprofessional
• Dara Imlay, Central Office – Data management technician
• Debbie Lakin, Early Childhood Center – Parent educator