Sep 21, 2023

Salina Public Schools names recpients of Teacher of the Year awards

Posted Sep 21, 2023 3:28 PM
Kelsey Wood with students.<b> Images Courtesy SPS</b>
Kelsey Wood with students. Images Courtesy SPS

By SALINA POST

On Tuesday Salina Public Schools announced the recipients of the USD 305 Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the 2023-2024 School Year.

Cottonwood special education teacher, Kelsey Wood was named SPS Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Kelsey Wood Cottonwood Elementary Special Education Teacher
Kelsey Wood Cottonwood Elementary Special Education Teacher

According to a statement from Salina Public Schools, "Wood doesn't merely teach; she builds a nurturing classroom environment that radiates acceptance and safety."

The statement continued by saying that Wood's unique skill set allows her to communicate with empathy, never compromising on technical precision. 

Mike Hall Mathematics Teacher at Central High School
Mike Hall Mathematics Teacher at Central High School

Mike Hall, a math teacher at Central High School, was named the Salina Public Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year earlier this week. 

According to a statement from Salina Public Schools, "Mike consistently turns challenges into opportunities with his solution-oriented mindset and his versatility is inspiring."

(Pictured from Left) Matthew Brungardt, Salina Central Pricipal; Mike Hall, Linn Exline, SPS Superintendent
(Pictured from Left) Matthew Brungardt, Salina Central Pricipal; Mike Hall, Linn Exline, SPS Superintendent

The statement continued saying, "Mike is dedicated to fostering potential and growth in every student - shaping minds and shaping futures."

Every year since 1974, SPS has selected teacher(s) of the year. Nomination forms are submitted to the building administrator and a committee comprised of past SPS Teacher of the Year recipients and current SPS administration.

Each year two instructors are nominated for the Kansas Teacher of the Year program. The awards are sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education and affiliated with the National Teacher of the Year program.