USD 305
Having shared a love of languages for over 30 years, Jan Denning is the recipient of the 2022 Phyllis Farrar Leadership Award, presented by the Kansas World Language Association (KSWLA).
The KSWLA presents this award to individuals in Kansas who have made outstanding contributions over time to the profession of teaching world languages.
Jan, now retired, taught French and sometimes Spanish at Central High School (CHS). Her upper level courses also included students from South High School. During her time as a teacher, Jan held many leadership roles including being a part of the building’s leadership team, mentor program and served as the chair of the language department.
Jan remembers teaching fondly. “I loved working with so many amazing students. They all had an impact on me”, said Jan. A graduate of CHS herself, Jan’s commitment to her school and her students included making 10 different trips to Paris with students. “Learning a world language helps you to understand other cultures and to learn to respect the differences. It opens your mind to other people and other languages.”
Jan’s influence reaches beyond Salina Public Schools as she was instrumental in bringing the Seal of Biliteracy program to school districts across Kansas. As a member of the Kansas World Language Advisory Council from 2008 to 2016, she helped write the proposal to the State Board of Education for the adoption of the Seal of Biliteracy program. Since its adoption, Jan served as the coordinator at CHS from 2017 to 2022. In 2018, Jan also began serving on the Advisory Council for the Seal of Biliteracy program and advised the implementation of the program in numerous school districts.
Jan knows that with the Seal of Biliteracy program, “Our students are able to demonstrate proficiency in a language, which helps them in post-secondary studies, jobs and the military. Plus, learning a language is fun!”
Jan’s dedication to sharing her love of language has left an impact on her students at CHS and students across Kansas. We are proud that Jan chose to serve our students with her talents, passion and leadership as part of our team of great teachers inspiring great futures. Congratulations Jan on your award!