5 named educators of the year

Five educators, including three from Central High School, were recognized for their instructional prowess Tuesday during the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce's Educator Appreciation Reception at the Show Me Center.

Recognized as educators of the year were Heather Fisher, a kindergarten teacher at Blanchard Elementary School, Southeast Missouri State University economics professor Dr. Willie Redmond, Central High School math teacher Mary LeGrand, Ellen Pannier, a Central High science teacher, and Julie Stausing, a Central High English teacher.

Before a crowd of about 250 people, each instructor received a Crystal Apple award, a $500 check, a resolution of honor from both houses of the Missouri Legislature and a copy of a video in which each winner offered insight into their love of teaching.

A 1995 Central High School graduate, Stausing said her alma mater was the only place she wanted to teach. Among the things she likes best about her job is that every day is new, even with the same students in class and the "ah-ha" moment when students get what she's teaching.

Stausing's peers shared similar sentiments.

"You see these people all grown up and leading successful lives, and you feel like you've done a good job," LeGrand said.

Central High School principal Mike Cowan was pleased to have three of his teachers recognized.

"It is a tremendous honor for us to have three members of our faculty recognized this afternoon. I think it's a reflection of how many wonderful and gifted teachers we have at Cape Central High School," Cowan said.

Tim Arbeiter, vice president of community development for the chamber, said the chamber has presented teacher of the year awards for 20 years.

This year, Arbeiter said 60 teachers were nominated. Eight of those candidates were selected for interviews, and five were chosen for recognition, Arbeiter said.

"It's hard every year," he said. "I hear from chamber volunteers that it's the hardest volunteer position we have."

rcampbell@semissourian.com

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