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Lawrence Public Schools'
Legacy Award Winners
Presented monthly during the school year by the Lawrence Education Association and Achievement Partner KU Credit Union, the Legacy Award is designed to honor teachers who make a significant impact in the lives of their students. This award honors outstanding educators who work tirelessly to assure student success.
Mary Grant
Mary Grant received the first Legacy Award at the District Convocation in August, 2000. Mary knows her students’ abilities inside and out, so she is able to design instruction in a variety of modalities and at a variety of levels to match students’ needs. In addition, Mary welcomes parent volunteers into her classroom, and those parents learn a great deal, too. One volunteer stated, “I simply marveled at the way she related and communicated to her students. She was able to give me ideas about relating to my son. She made me feel important, and she made me feel good about my volunteerism.” This kind of service is what prompted Mary’s principal to comment, “Mary puts her heart and soul into teaching her students.”
After graduating from the University of Kansas with a degree in elementary education, Mary taught at Perry Elementary for six years, then at Lecompton Elementary for two years. In 1984, Mary accepted a position teaching second and third grades at Pinckney Elementary School in Lawrence, Kansas, where she has played a significant role in the lives of students and families ever since.
Kathy Wagner
In the spring of 1983, Kathy Wagner student taught at West Junior High School, and she graduated from the University of Kansas. That fall, she officially joined the Lawrence Public Schools when she took a position teaching math at West. Mrs. Wagner has remained at West ever since, making sure that important work, both at the building and district levels, gets accomplished.
During her career at West, Mrs. Wagner has become known for sponsoring student activities, for displaying strong instructional skills, for showing a commitment to staff development, and for having a great sense of humor. She has participated in the school’s Continuous Improvement Team, three Building Level Instructional Skills groups, and the district’s Math Cadre. She also sponsored a drill team for four years, plus a math team for more than ten years. In addition, Mrs. Wagner has facilitated numerous workshops on topics ranging from inclusion to using manipulatives to teach math. In the classroom, Mrs. Wagner is upbeat and goes way beyond what is necessary to meet students’ needs. As one colleague explained, Mrs. Wagner “is creative and finds many ways to teach, so her students are receptive and work hard for her. Mrs. Wagner received the second Legacy Award.
Mark Rickabaugh
The third Legacy Award was given to Mark Rickabaugh, an agricultural teacher and FFA advisor at Lawrence High School. Mr. Rickabaugh earned his undergraduate degree in Agriculture Education from Kansas State University and has done graduate work at Kansas State and Pittsburg State Universities. Prior to coming to Lawrence in 1997, he taught in Scott City, Kansas, and Garnett, Kansas.
Mr. Rickabaugh has earned the respect of his colleagues and his students for his fairness as well as for his command of his subject matter. In addition to teaching Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Greenhouse Science, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, Agricultural Science, Business Technology I and II, and Field Experiences in Agriculture Lab, students feel he teaches them self-confidence, wisdom, and pride! As one student wrote, “His ability to instill confidence and appreciation of self-worth has left a lasting impression with all students fortunate to have known him.”
Marjorie Cole
The fifth Legacy award honoree, Marjorie Cole, has been in the field of education since 1975. She has worked in several of the Lawrence public schools including Grant, East Heights, Kennedy, the Diagnostic Center and Broken Arrow. Mrs. Cole started in education when students with special needs were not included in the regular classroom. Not only has Mrs. Cole worked as a teacher in the field of special education, she also worked as a paraprofessional. She has witnessed enormous changes in special education throughout her years as an educator and vows to see all of her students be successful. Mrs. Cole began including students with special needs into the regular classroom long before inclusion became the norm for special education.
Dedicated, professional, compassionate and genuine are just a few words to describe this teacher who works tirelessly to assure student success. She’s a common thread keeping everyone at Broken Arrow connected. Mrs. Cole began collaborating with other teachers long before collaboration was part of the weekly schedule. She remains focused on what is best for each individual student and does this expertly by effectively collaborating and working with colleagues. It is no surprise that she should receive this award designed to honor staff members who make a significant impact in the lives of their students.
Andi Parson
Known to her colleagues as a “Renaissance woman,” Andi Parson brings an extensive body of knowledge to her Central Junior High School Social Studies students. It is for this reason, as well as many others, that she received the sixth Legacy Award. This award, which honors staff members who make a significant impact in the lives of their students, was presented to Mrs. Parson for her outstanding and tireless work to assure student success.
At Central Jr. High School, Mrs. Parson plays a major role on a wide variety of important committees including Continuous School Improvement team, Professional Development Team, and Central’s Writing Committee. She is reported as making the committee experience productive due to her ability to impart her understandings of information in a way that everyone understands. Among her most important qualities is the ability to put both students and colleagues at ease, particularly in difficult situations. Given the high stress environment of a junior high school, this quality is especially valuable and most definitely appreciated.
Phyllis LaRue
The seventh Legacy Award was presented to Phyllis LaRue, Wakarusa Valley Elementary School teacher. Ms. LaRue has earned others’ respect by holding students to high standards and by setting equally high expectations for herself. She inspires, listens compassionately, provides challenges, and encourages others. Furthermore, Ms. LaRue focuses on the future; she strives to do what she can to help students maximize their potential. One teacher remarked that Ms. LaRue “builds self-confidence in others and empowers others to do what is right.”
Ms. LaRue holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas and a master’s degree from Mid-America University. Before joining the Lawrence Public Schools, she taught in Overland Park, Kansas; Admire, Kansas; and Blacksburg, Virginia.
Paulette Breithaupt
Parents and students are big fans of Paulette Breithaupt, winner of the eighth Legacy Award. Mrs. Breithaupt displays a genuine concern for students when she, for example, watches as school is dismissed each day to make sure that every child connects with a parent or guardian. One parent reported, “Each time I have gone for parent-teacher conferences, I have been amazed at how she knows my child, how fair she is in her assessments, and how helpful she is if there is a problem.” A former student commented, “She was always nice and never lost her temper.” Mrs. Breithaupt’s ability to approach her work with focus, patience, selflessness, and kindness has obviously endeared her to many.
After graduating from Mid-America Nazarene College, Mrs. Breithaupt taught in Berryton, Kansas, for five and a half years. Then, in 1982, she began teaching kindergarten at Sunset Hill Elementary School.
Glenda Brenton
Glenda Brenton, the ninth recipient of the Legacy Award, was a pioneer in inclusion twenty-one years ago. She is flexible, collaborative, and sharp and bends over backwards to meet the needs of students and teachers. She has mentored new teachers for many years and has helped them understand how to meet the needs of diverse learners, how to document student growth, and how to collect data for referrals to special services. She exhibits sincere concern for children, families, and teachers, and her effective communication skills enable her to assist in meeting the needs of her students.
Mrs. Brenton holds degrees from Emporia State University
and the University of Kansas. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in
1970 as a third grade teacher at Riverside Elementary. Since then she
has taught at Pinckney, New York, Centennial,
Marcia McPhail
The tenth Legacy Award recipient was Marcia McPhail. Mrs. McPhail, who is the school library/media specialist at South Jr. High, was nominated for this distinguished award by the entire South Junior High School staff. The faculty said they feel very strongly that she was the best candidate to receive this award for her dedication and service to Lawrence Public Schools. She is respected for being consistent, caring and committed to both students and staff since 1990, although she has been in education in the state of Kansas for a total of 36 years. In addition to all she does for South, Mrs. McPhail also serves on the district’s finance committee, where she offers dedication, a positive attitude, wit and insights to a difficult task.
Mrs. McPhail has been described as, “the most innovative person in her field” for making the library at South, an actual “library.” Over the years she has rearranged tables, shelves, books, and anything not nailed down, to make the library a more efficient setting for students and staff. Additionally, she keeps up to date with all the new media equipment, circulates information, maintains the South web site, and deals with all of the sales representatives associated with libraries and books, while NEVER asking for help. Mrs. McPhail exemplifies the reason for this award, honoring educators who work tirelessly to assure student success!
Debby Crady
More than 700 Schwegler Elementary School students have been in the class of Debby Crady, who received the eleventh Legacy Award. Mrs. Crady earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas and her master’s degree from Mid-America Nazarene College. She began teaching in 1971, when she accepted a position teaching third grade at Schwegler; she has remained at Schwegler, educating second and third graders, for more than three decades.
Others describe Mrs. Crady as an outstanding teacher who exemplifies best practice in teaching on a daily basis. She regularly incorporates newly learned teaching strategies into her repertoire so that she can meet students’ diverse needs. One student noted that Mrs. Crady “gives us hard work to do, and I’m glad because I like hard work.” That student was quick to add that Mrs. Crady also has students play games to help them learn content. Another student captured Mrs. Crady’s habit of dignifying and respecting all students: “If somebody made a mistake or did something wrong, Mrs. Crady helped them and never got mad.” It is easy to see why Mrs. Crady’s reputation is respected throughout the district.
David Tenpenny
David Tenpenny was awarded the twelfth Legacy Award. Mr. Tenpenny attended Highland Community College, Kansas State University, and Pittsburg State University and began his career in education in 1985 when he joined the Wichita Public Schools. Seven years later he moved to Atchison, Kansas, and served as the Lead Automotive Instructor for the Northeast Kansas Technical College. He joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1997 as an Industrial Technology Teacher at Lawrence High School.
Mr. Tenpenny creates a student-centered environment that allows each student to experience success. He has an upbeat, energetic, and genuine caring attitude for his students. A former parent says he is “an inspiration to his students. He not only teaches them in the classroom, but he also gives of his time outside of the classroom to help his students make career choices for after graduation.”
Dick Wedel
A teacher may be the most learned person in the classroom, but if he doesn’t reach students, then that teacher is ineffective,” so the saying goes. The thirteenth Legacy Award was presented to honor a teacher who goes out of his way to reach students, even If that means stopping by their house to see why he/she was absent. Mr. Dick Wedel began his career in Chicago, Illinois, where he taught history at Kelley High School. After teaching in the “windy city” for one year, he moved to Upton, Wyoming, where he taught English and German at Upton High School. In 1974, Mr. Wedel became a member of the Lawrence Public Schools when he accepted an English and history position in the Extension Program at Lawrence High School. For over three decades, he has served students in the Extension Program and at Lawrence Alternative High School.
Mr. Wedel has been described as the “glue” that unites the Lawrence Alternative High School staff. He is the type of person who goes above and beyond the call of duty. Each month, Mr. Wedel organizes a breakfast meeting before school so that teachers can spend some quality time discussing school, personal lives, or other topics of interest. He arrives early on cold winter mornings or on snowy, icy days to sprinkle salt on the steps to keep staff and students safe. It is his quiet and unassuming way that he goes about his job, that makes him so very effective and so very deserving of this award designed to honor staff members who make a significant impact in the lives of their students.
Carolyn Derusseau
The recipient of the fourteenth Legacy Award was Carolyn Derusseau. Mrs. Derusseau has been a teacher in the Lawrence Public School District since 1973. Her twenty-nine years, all at West Jr. High, have given her the opportunity to teach 7th grade Common Learnings, 8th grade Common Learnings, English, Geography, History, Government, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Speech Communication. She even served as Guidance Counselor for a couple of months! During her time at West Junior High School, Mrs. Derusseau has created a Student Council that is a model of student government in action.
Mrs. Derusseau is highly respected by her colleagues as well as students who daily witness her devotion to the school and willingness to contribute to the school community in countless ways. From interactive simulations of the legislative and judicial branches of government, to imaginary trips through the state of Kansas, as well as other “cool” projects, Mrs. Derusseau keeps her students enthusiastic and excited about learning. She is thoughtful, kind, always cheerful, and greets every student, past and present, with warmth and enthusiasm. Mrs. Derusseau is the kind of teacher that helps to make USD497 such a remarkable district!
Carolyn Berry
Carolyn Berry joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1994 to teach art at Lawrence High School. In 1997 she transferred to Free State where she’s taught art ever since. In addition to students in Lawrence, Ms. Berry has taught in Winfield, Great Bend, and Salina, Kansas. She holds her bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State and her master’s degree from Pittsburg State University.
Ms. Berry is known for making cross curriculum connections
with other schools, other disciplines, and the community at large. She
invites college representatives into her classroom from across the
Nancy Ornburn
Mrs. Nancy Ornburn, the sixteenth Legacy Award recipient, is a teacher at New York Elementary School. It is there that she makes a difference in the lives of her students. This award, which honors outstanding teachers who work hard to make sure every student is successful, was presented to Mrs. Ornburn for her tireless dedication to students and her profession. Mrs. Ornburn is a positive example of one who creates a rich learning environment for students through her friendly, generous and genuine personality. Her teaching career began at New York Elementary in 1979, teaching a second and third grade class. Over the past twenty-three years she’s taught over three hundred second and third graders. She vigorously involves her students every moment of the day with exciting lessons that are interesting and motivational.
As New York educators’ LEA Building Representative, Mrs. Ornburn uses her communication skills to assure that the needs and concerns of the school’s staff and students are expressed, and then she works to bring about positive change! Furthermore, Mrs. Ornburn is instrumental in effectively organizing parent teacher conferences for all of the families at New York Elementary. In addition to her talents as an effective educator, this professional finds time to organize the school’s sunshine fund, sending cards or flowers to staff members for special events, and organizing showers to help celebrate those happenings. It has been said that, “Nancy Ornburn IS the sunshine at New York Elementary School!”
Bev Hyde
Bev Hyde, the seventeenth Legacy Award winner, joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1976 and taught physical education for nine years at Sunset Hill and Cordley. In 1984 she accepted a second grade teaching position at Cordley and has taught everything from frogs to handwriting ever since.
According to her principal, Mrs. Hyde’s “commitment to her profession is evident in her work on district committees and building teams. She has provided leadership at Cordley in technology, mathematics, assessments, reading…and the list goes on.” A colleague noted she is “one of those teachers that we all wished that we could have had. She gives 110% of herself each year to a new set of students and uses every conceivable way to push, prompt, stretch, and guide these children to be the best they can be.” Mrs. Hyde makes a difference in the education of Cordley children.
Cheryl Chaput
Cheryl Chaput has taught math at Lawrence High School since she joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1985. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University and her master’s degree from Emporia State University. She has also taught students in Burlingame, Shawnee Heights, and Washburn University. Mrs. Chaput serves as department chair at Lawrence High and has been on multiple committees for the Lawrence Education Association and the Lawrence Public Schools. She is one of the people responsible for developing and implementing the Peer Mentoring Program and continues to influence this program through her role on the Peer Mentoring Steering Committee.
Ms. Chaput is patient, focused, and dedicated to helping students learn the subject matter she teaches. She possesses the ability to make a complex theory tangible, and, as a colleague noted, “Her patience with students is legendary.” She teaches a diverse group of students who describe her as “fair,” “thoughtful,” “intelligent,” and “consistent.” She has the ability to solve problems and communicates openly and directly.
Jayne Polcyn
Jayne Polcyn, a fifth grade teacher at Langston Hughes Elementary School, was presented with the 20th Legacy Award in August 2002. Ms. Polcyn has touched the lives of hundreds of children, educators, and families in the Lawrence community and models vision, drive, a collaborative spirit, and a strong desire for personal and professional growth. Colleagues have said she “is the most generous, giving professional I know,” and she “consistently works with others to improve learning opportunities for all children.”
Ms. Polcyn holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Kansas. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1969 and has taught every grade level from kindergarten through sixth grade. She has touched the lives of students and families at Pinckney, Sunset Hill, and Langston Hughes with lessons that blend guided instruction with independent practice. In addition, she has touched the lives of hundreds of teachers who learn and continue to learn about effective language arts instruction from her. She serves as a leader on QPA and school improvement processes and has often assisted with staff development efforts throughout the district.
Diane Low
Diane Low, the twentieth Legacy Award winner, has taught junior high students at South and Southwest for more than thirty years. She holds her bachelor’s degree and her master’s degree from the University of Kansas and taught in Eudora, Ford, and Dodge City before joining the Lawrence Public Schools in 1970. She has served as chairperson for various committees in Lawrence including the United Way and the district-wide interdisciplinary teaming committee. She has also been an active member of the Lawrence Education Association serving in various leadership capacities.
Ms. Low is an unselfish team player who deals with change well. She helped establish teaching teams at Southwest and has mentored many young teachers who have joined this school’s teams over the years. She models commitment to her students and to the teaching profession, and, as one parent said, “With teachers like her, the world really does have hope for peace.”
Keri Austin-Janousek
Keri Austin-Janousek earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Kansas and began her teaching career as an English teacher in Kansas City, Kansas. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1995 as an 8th and 9th grade English teacher at West Junior High. Ms. Austin-Janousek serves on West’s QPA Writing Committee and on the school’s Recognition Committee. In addition to her responsibilities as English Department Chair, she also serves as the district’s Language Arts Teacher Leadership Cadre representative.
Ms. Austin-Janousek is a very dedicated and creative teacher who puts students first. She has a knack for making literature relevant to students’ lives and demands high quality products from herself and her students. She is well-known for her Victorian tea party at the conclusion of a ninth grade unit exploring the works of Charles Dickens. Colleagues feel privileged to work with her, and one wrote that “just as she has motivated her students to strive for excellence, she has motivated me to be a better teacher, too. She is truly a dedicated and exceptional teacher and a valued friend.”
Pat Grzenda
Pat Grzenda, the twenty-second Legacy Award winner, joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1977 as an adaptive physical education teacher at Cordley, East Heights, and Woodlawn. In subsequent years, her work has taken her to Centennial, Central, Deerfield, Hillcrest, Lawrence Free State High School, Lawrence High School, New York, Prairie Park, Quail Run, Schwegler, South, Sunflower, and West. Ms. Grzenda holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Kansas.
For over twenty years, Ms. Grzenda has helped make students with special needs part of the classroom, ensuring that these students master critical concepts and objectives. Colleagues reported that she also “treats all students, regardless of ability, with dignity and respect.” Additionally, teachers seek out her advice on education matters, and coaches solicit her opinion regarding relationships between coaches and players. Three cheers for Ms. Grzenda for touching the lives of hundreds of students, parents, and teachers.
Becky Spradlin
The twenty-third Legacy Award was presented to Becky Spradlin, who often goes to great lengths to get Pinckney students excited about learning. Mrs. Spradlin does everything from performing her high school pom routine to writing original songs that help students understand difficult concepts. Parents and colleagues describe Mrs. Spradlin as dedicated, dependable, and loyal, someone who “has made everyone around her better.” Not only does Mrs. Spradlin work tirelessly to make a difference at her own school, but she also works to improve the entire district. For example, she impacted the district’s math program and the district’s class sizes.
Mrs. Spradlin holds degrees from Kansas City Kansas Community College and the University of Kansas. Her career with the Lawrence Public Schools began in 1975 when she joined the Pinckney staff as a resource room aide. The following year, she started teaching fourth and fifth grades, and, since then, she has taught hundreds of fourth, fifth, and sixth graders at Pinckney Elementary School.
Lynn Beets
Lynn Beets, Schwegler Elementary second-grade teacher, received the 25th Legacy Award in 2003. Mrs. Beets has a wide range of instructional competencies to provide her students with engaging, meaningful lessons that assure student success. She works with ALL students to ensure their academic progress. She is patient, calm and understanding, and works to motivate all students to do their best. Her classroom is a safe place for students to experiment and take risks necessary in the learning process. Mrs. Beets takes time to know each student as an individual. Her understanding of each student as a person with his or her own unique value provides a springboard of confidence from which students can continue their education.
Mrs. Beets received her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Kansas. Before coming to the Lawrence Public Schools, she taught at Perry and McLouth Elementary Schools. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1981 as an itinerant teacher working with students with learning disabilities at Grant, Woodlawn, Pinckney, Cordley, and New York schools. Lynn taught in the second grade at Schwegler from 1985 until her retirement in 2005.
Linda Browning
Linda, Sunflower sixth-grade teacher, is a teacher who parents hope their children get for class and a teacher from whom students say they learned the most. Linda's "work day" begins well before 7 a.m. and ends long after students have returned home, not to mention weekends and much preparation during the summer months. Outside the classroom, Linda is involved in site council, PTO, and leads the school's Quality Performance Accreditation evaluation team. Colleagues call her "The Queen" for these and many other reasons. She knows her subject matter, understands effective instruction, and genuinely cares about students and their academic achievement. Linda retired in 2001 after six years at Quail Run Elementary, seven years at Sunflower Elementary, and eight years of out-of-state teaching experience.
Leellyn Tuel
Leellyn, Hillcrest second-grade teacher, is one of those rare teachers
whose positive impact on the lives of her many students, their parents,
and her colleagues has been immense. She has earned the respect and
admiration of all of those who are fortunate to work with her. She
is a master of instruction. Her student's successes and love for learning
are illustrative of her incredible skills. Her love for teaching is
reflected in her positive attitude, unending patience, and through
the eyes of those excited learners lucky enough to pass through her
door every day.
Leellyn spends countless hours providing workshops on reading and writing
instructional skills and strategies for teachers across the district.
She is a role model for many university students and a valuable leader
at Hillcrest. She is the kind of teacher parents want their child to
have, the kind of colleague with whom teachers want to work, and the
kind of person you would want to call friend.
Mick Lowe
Mick, West Junior High principal, is deserving of the Legacy Award for all of his tremendous contributions to education and the Lawrence school district. He is an outstanding administrator and leader. He gives teachers the professional freedom to explore new and creative ideas in the classroom. He has surrounded himself with caring and highly educated teachers and staff in order to create a solid educational environment for students. Mick IS West Junior High. He loves the school, its faculty, and every student body that enters and exits its doors. This affection and respect is reciprocated in the high regard staff and students have for him. It is a privilege to work for and with such an outstanding school administrator. Mick retired in May of 2003 after 18 years as principal at West Junior High School, four years as assistant principal at West, and more than 31 years in education.
Terry Wells
Terry, Lawrence High English teacher, has taught a variety of classes, coached sophomore football, served as activities director, and helped out as Varsity Football announcer and a clerk for track and state cross country. He was instrumental in developing the Writing for the College Bound class at LHS. Former students and parents compliment Terry and material learned in this class. Colleagues believe that his teaching is directly responsible for the success many former students have at the collegiate level. His unique style of teaching is one of the reasons Lawrence High is a truly great school. Terry retired in May of 2003 after 22 years at Lawrence High School and 34 years in education.
Cathy Williams
Cathy Williams, Prairie Park fifth-grade teacher, works tirelessly to
benefit students and staff. Her work ethic is unbelievable. She is
regularly one of the first staff to arrive and almost always is the
last to leave the building. Much of this time is spent preparing lessons.
She wants to know the material well in order to present it effectively.
She also spends a great deal of time evaluating student work so students
and parents can be well-informed of student progress. Cathy maintains
a group of classroom pets that are enjoyable and instructional for
students.
Cathy works with students respectfully and expects the same from them
in return. She gives choices to students so that they feel more in control
of the classroom environment. This type of environment allows for learning
to occur in a maximized, positive way. Outside the classroom, Cathy is
a leader in our school's technology team. She is our go-to person for
technology questions. She has served on site council and is a peer mentor
for a novice teacher. Seeing Cathy, a veteran teacher, work so hard to
improve her practice is one of the biggest influences on other teachers
at our school. She's inspirational to colleagues, and her students enjoy
her liveliness, ever-present smile, and great sense of humor.
Teresa Clough and Sandy Liechti
This dynamic duo works as a team and uses each other's strengths to make themmore productive as a team. Day in and day out, the actions of Teresa and Sandy demonstrate that the well-being of students tops their list of priorities. One of their most outstanding feats is that they know all of the students at West Junior High. Beginning when students enroll as incoming sixth-graders, these teachers make a deliberate effort to become acquainted with them. Thereafter, they take advantage of every opportunity to interact with kids.
Most importantly, however, the knowledge these educators have of each student's personality and strengths enables them to assist students – very effectively – with everything from class schedules to social issues to family concerns. They coach sports and chaperone dances. They slip into hallway supervision spots when a regular staff member is missing. They magically support substitute teachers; even sending call slips for certain students, thereby averting potential problems. The list goes on and on.
These two have taught for nearly 30 years. Teresa received her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Kansas, and Sandy received her bachelor's degree from Central Missouri State University and her master's degree from the University of Kansas. Teresa joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1976 when she accepted a 7th grade Common Learnings position at West Junior High School. Sandy other came to Lawrence in 1983 to teach 8th grade English at Central.
Alison Nye
Alison has a great sense of humor, and sees the humor in every situation. Her laughter is infectious. She has the utmost respect for students. She masterfully handles student differences, behaviors, and challenges with respect, care, and concern. She looks for the positive and works from this premise.
She has an absolute command of the first-grade curriculum. Alison has a skill in focusing her teaching to outcomes while making her classroom an enjoyable, enriching, and inspiring place to learn. Plus, this outstanding educator has the unique ability to enlist parent support in all aspects of her teaching day. When working with parents, she communicates in a positive and productive manner.
Alison earned her bachelor's in Elementary Education from the University of Kansas in 1980. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1980 when she accepted a first- and second-grade teaching position at Broken Arrow Elementary School. After teaching there for one year, she taught kindergarten, first-, and second-graders at Pinckney Elementary School . She came to Quail Run in 1988 where's she's taught first-graders ever since.
Vicki Maykulsky
Vicki's nomination extolled her cheerful and upbeat attitude, her ability to go above and beyond the call of duty to fully serve two schools, and her compassion for students and their families. Vicki was described as an "Energizer Bunny" and an absolute team player. She deserves this award for her outstanding work, dedication, and loyalty to the Lawrence Public Schools. She gives her heart and soul to her job.
Vicki earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from Wichita State University. She was a speech therapist in Casa Grande and Sacaton, Arizona, before joining the Lawrence Public Schools in 1984 as a speech language therapist. She has worked with students at East Heights, New York, Pinckney, Sunflower, and Sunset Hill..
Linda Wildgen
Linda is described as an invaluable resource to both students and staff. Nominators say she's extremely organized and that she never misses an IEP meeting. Several LHS special education teachers say that they rely on Linda, who makes their jobs easier. Others say Linda goes well beyond her job to help students be successful. One example of this dedication and commitment can be found in all of the field trips that she arranges for LHS students. She spends countless hours, many after the school day, to help students with disabilities transition to the next phase of their lives after high school. She is the district expert on transition services!
Linda was instrumental in developing the district's award-winning C-TRAN Program. Additionally, she makes many contacts with agency personnel to facilitate a smooth transition for students with mental and developmental disabilities. She is equally as proficient in assisting students who are interested in vocational-technical schools or who are college-bound.
Linda earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas. She worked for the Menninger Foundation and Kansas City Kansas Community College prior to joining the Lawrence Public Schools in 1993 as a transition facilitator at LHS.
Shirley Spencer
Nominators wrote that for Shirley, students always come first. She establishes a great learning environment in her classroom by planning effective lessons to meet the diverse needs of each of her students. She holds high expectations for her students and they respond well. Because of her great rapport with students, parents are always complimentary of her work with their children.
Shirley is one of the first people to arrive at Wakarusa Valley each morning and one of the last to leave at the end of the day. If staff members need help figuring out a tough situation, they include Shirley in the discussion because she sees things through to a solution. Colleagues say she works hard and is the first to point out how hard others work. She is unassuming, and her heart is big enough for anyone in need. Some say that one of her strongest virtues is that she is so steady and stays the course.
Shirley earned her bachelor's degree from Auburn University and her master's from MidAmerica Nazarene University. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1987 when she accepted a position as a paraprofessional in one of Wakarusa's first-grade classrooms. She became a certified teacher in 1991 when she accepted a first-grade teaching position at Wakarusa Valley Elementary.
Val Howland
Colleagues and former colleagues said, “I can't think of anyone who is more deserving of the Legacy Award. This award is meant for Val Howland.”
Students said that Mrs. Howland loves them very much. They said that she is very, very good at spelling and drawing. Plus, they said that their teacher is very pretty! Val's nomination included these thoughts: She exudes sunshine and love. She embraces every child and encourages the very best out of every person she meets. She teaches more than the curriculum. She teaches life and love. Students come out of her class with an "I Think I Can" attitude that she instills in them right from the story of The Little Engine That Could. Teachers refer to Val as passionate, articulate, committed, and genuine.
Val earned her bachelor's degree from Emporia State University and her master's from KU. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1970 as a kindergarten teacher at Hillcrest. After teaching at Hillcrest for eight years, she joined the Broken Arrow faculty as an Indian Education tutor. In 1984, she became Broken Arrow 's kindergarten teacher.
Cindy Murray
Nominators said that Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge to her position. She uses her broad connections in the Lawrence community to benefit everyone in ways that many will never know since she does them quietly and without fanfare. She has taken students with chronic health care conditions that affect their ability to “do school” under her wing and supported their educational efforts by working out creative ways to accommodate their special situations.
A former coworker said that she has often observed students visiting the health office not because of illness, but because of the care and attention that is given to them by Mrs. Murray. Lawrence High faculty describe Cindy as reliable, dependable, and energetic. She tends to everybody on staff, and she's always there to offer support, comfort, or an extra hand. Clearly, she embodies the spirit of a Lawrence High Lion!
Cindy earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Kansas . She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1988 as the school nurse at Central Junior High School. She transferred to Lawrence High School in 1989.
Karen Warner
Karen's colleagues say that she works “tirelessly for the students in her class making sure each and every one achieves as much success as possible.” Her instructional skills and strategies are impressive. She effectively implements cooperative teaching into her lessons. Plus, she uses hands-on teaching methods in math and science, and a process-oriented approach to teach reading and writing, assuring that she meets the individual needs of each child.
In addition to her teaching duties, Karen gives back to our community. She has been extremely involved with the Girl Scouts and Hidden Valley Girl Scout Camp for many years, even when her daughter was no longer a scout. Additionally, she shared her love of the fine arts by serving on the board of director's for the Lawrence Children's Choir. Plus, she has been an active member of the Lawrence Education Association serving as a Building Representative and a driving force in organizing the annual Friends of Education ceremony.
She has been a committee of one, working with Lynda Allen on the district's health curriculum while working with the Slice of Agriculture program to tie it to the district's fourth-grade curriculum and align it to the sate standards for math and science.
Karen earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Kansas. She began her career in 1969 as a first-grade teacher at Baldwin Elementary School. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1984 when she accepted a long-term substitute teaching position at Centennial Elementary School. The following year, she became a member of the certified staff when she accepted a second-grade teaching position at Centennial. She stayed at Centennial until 1999 when she transferred to Deerfield.
Vickie McCauley
Vickie is described as “the ideal professional educator.” She is hard working, dedicated, honest, understanding, and has a great sense of humor. West teachers say that she is a team player and an absolute joy to have as a colleague and friend.
Others say that Vickie is a willing risk taker who has consistently let what is best for students dictate her efforts. Working with her colleagues she led the way collaborating with them to develop interdisciplinary, thematic units. In many ways, she is a team player working with her colleagues to create a positive, caring culture at West Junior High School for both staff and students. Over and over people refer to her as the consummate professional. She's somebody you can always count on.
Vickie earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Kansas. She began her career in 1978 when she taught health, life science, and biology to students at South Junior High School. She transferred to Wakarusa Valley in 1985 to become their physical education teacher. Then, in 1991, she came to West where she's remained ever since teaching health, study skills, and physical education.
Joyce DeSalvo
Joyce DeSalvo, learning strategies teacher at Southwest Junior High School, is described as “always willing to do whatever it takes in order to help a student be successful.” She treats all students with respect and kindness - - as if they were her own children. Southwest teachers say that they can't imagine their school without Joyce's smiling presence. She teaches her students and co-workers about more than math and history. She gives students unsurpassed help and encouragement. She knows each of her students’ interests, strengths, and weaknesses, and goes to any length necessary to help students complete their work.
Fellow educators call Joyce “amazing” because she loves
her work and her students. She is a founding member of the Student Improvement
Team and a member of the building accreditation team at Southwest. She
holds her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania
and her master’s degree from the University of Arkansas. She began
her career in 1971 as a speech therapist, a position she held for eleven
years in four states. Joyce also taught preschool and has been a research
assistant at the University of Kansas. She's been with Southwest Junior
High since the school opened in the fall of 1995.
Katy Buck
The 40th Legacy Award honored Katy Buck, the school district's nursing services facilitator. Katy's nomination called her the "essence of professionalism.” She performs in a professional manner, no matter the situation. A peer stated that, “I have been impressed with her can-do attitude.” Another said that she “maintains an upbeat and positive attitude in spite of budget cuts. She spends countless hours outside her duty day trying to meet the needs of her position." Katy is described as “always knowledgeable” and as having the ability to conduct research on current nursing and education issues.” She “is knowledgeable in the nursing field and has a wealth of resources to draw on.” Others say Katy is a dedicated child advocate. A co-worker says “she devotes her career to the health and well-being of students so that they are in school, healthy and ready to learn.” Katy “has an unshakable goal of optimal health for children and works hard toward that goal.”
Katy holds a diploma from the West Suburban Hospital
School of Nursing, a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa, and a master’s
degree from Rush University. She began her career in 1971 as a nurse.
She has served as a nurse and an instructor in four states and in Zaire.
She began working in the Lawrence Public Schools in 1994. She became
the district's nursing services facilitator in 2000.
Lanell Finneran
Lanell Finneran, Bert Nash secondary therapeutic classroom teacher, is a master at making students feel comfortable, safe, and accepted. She “strives to instruct, motivate, nurture, and mentor young junior high and high school” students. She “skillfully weaves her 7-12th grade instruction imparting information involved in a myriad of content such as English, communication skills, social skills, algebra, American history, government, and biology.” As a recipient of the Legacy Award, Lanell was is described as having a “committed cultivation of student excellence.” In addition to instruction, her “classroom structure enables her students to learn while in a safe, secure, environment which presents a tightly organized system of reinforcements and consequences.” She encourages students to pursue their individual interests and does not rest until she can connect students with the right resources to assist them in their goals. She does all she can to ensure the future success of her students.
With Lanell's kind and consistent teaching approaches,
students eventually find success and begin to again believe that they
can function in an academic setting. When a student goes to her classroom,
parents also became a part of her program. She is always available
to them for consultation and suggestions for supporting the student
at home. She is invested in the families she serves. “Over the years, she has consistently
turned students’ lives around for the better." Lanell has
degrees in English, drama therapy, and special education. She began her
career at South Junior High in the late 1970’s, then taught in
the Topeka district and at the Southard School at Menninger's. She returned
to Lawrence as a therapist for the Bert Nash Classroom and became the
teacher of the Bert Nash Classroom in 1999.
Alan Brummell
Alan Brummell, Schwegler art teacher, received
the 42nd Legacy Award. He is described as “always gentle and friendly with students.” He
has high behavioral and academic expectations for every student. He supports
students in whatever way they need to be successful, behaviorally and
academically. Alan often volunteers on committees and at Parent Teacher
Association events yearly. He supervises students after school and sends
certificates home to celebrate students’ work. Alan is able to
get “amazing” work from students. One staff member said of
him, “I see the carryover in vocabulary and quality of work in
my classroom.” He is widely respected by peers across the district—by
elementary, junior high, and high school teachers. Alan holds a bachelor’s
degree from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in Visual
Arts Education. He began his career in teaching in Gardner, Kansas. He
began teaching in the Lawrence Public Schools in 1984. Schwegler was
one of eight buildings he taught in that year. Alan did not originally
have a room, so he put supplies on a cart and wheeled it from room to
room. He began teaching only at Schwegler in 1988, where he remains today.
Mary Fulbright
Described as having “enthusiasm, passion, creativity, and energy,” Mary
Fulbright, Pinckney fifth-grade teacher, received the 43rd Legacy Award.
Her nominators say she “sets the bar high for the quality of work
she requires.” She embodies what parents desire in a teacher. One
person said, “The beauty of working with her is to experience her
smile and her undying love of…her students. There is never a question
of her abilities or her calling as a teacher.” Mary has led staff
development and co-chaired the Writing Committee for several years. She
taught at Pinckney Elementary from 1996 to 1998, but lower student enrollment
led to the loss of her position. When the position re-opened in 2000,
the staff was adamant about wanting her to return. She has been with
Pinckney since.
Steve Grant
Steve Grant wears several hats at Lawrence Free State High School. He teaches social studies and serves as athletic director and assistant principal. Steve was the 45th recipient of the Legacy Award. His nomination describes Steve as "a dedicated teacher” who genuinely cares about the kids, and someone who does everything in his power to “encourage and witness their success.” Steve "is beyond dedicated in the entire scope” of secondary education. Staff and students “realize how much time and effort he dedicates to them, and they appreciate it.” One staff member said of Steve, “He knows the name of every student at Free State High and attends all of their activities.”
Steve earned bachelor’s and master’s
degrees at the University of Kansas. He began his career in education
in Topeka in 1973. He joined Lawrence Public Schools in 1977 as an
elementary teacher at Pinckney. He taught social studies, English,
and mathematics at West Junior High for seventeen years before moving
in 1997 to Free State.
Pam Nuzum
The 47th Legacy Award recognized Pam Nuzum, counselor at South Junior High School. One staff member said that Pam “is approachable, empathic, and genuine.” She is “willing to mentor
others and give of her time to help them become better.” A peer said that Pam is “visionary in that she has the ability to consider multiple facets of a situation or an individual and then use that
knowledge to help students, parents, and staff members make decisions that promote success.” Her nomination further reads, “She helps staff members deal with stress on a regular basis.” According to a
co-worker, Pam “is able to see the strengths of individual staff members and to encourage them to use their talents for the good of the school.” Pam is an active member of the Lawrence Education
Association and an enthusiastic member of the JAMS (Jobs in the Arts Make Sense) program. Pam also is a long-term member of the school district’s Crisis Response Team. She earned her bachelor’s and
master’s degrees at The University of Kansas. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools as a teacher at Pinckney Elementary in 1970. Pam became a counselor for the Special Services department in 1983, moved
to Schwegler Elementary in 1989, and landed at South Junior High in 1995.
Lisa Clark
Colleagues say that Lisa Clark is an inspiration to both students and teachers. Honored with the 48th Legacy Award, peers speak highly of this first-grade teacher at Schwegler
Elementary and her “talents in the classroom.” One colleague said, “Lisa is a consummate professional and demonstrates her professionalism in her interactions with students, colleagues, and parents. She
inspires by her pedagogical talents" and “is in-tune with student academic and emotional needs, and tailors her instruction so that each student has the optimum chance for success.” Parents of children in
Lisa's classroom are "consistently pleased with her ability to nurture the social needs of students while providing just the right level of academic challenge to foster individual growth in both social
and academic areas.” Lisa's nomination also read, “Time and time again, teachers speak of her many talents in the classroom.” Lisa is a graduate of Lawrence High School and earned her bachelor’s degree in
elementary education from The University of Kansas. She joined the Lawrence Public Schools in 1985, and taught at Centennial Elementary for one year before moving to Schwegler Elementary School.
Dan Karasek
The 49th Legacy Award recognized Dan Karasek, fifth-grade teacher at Prairie Park Elementary. Dan is described as making students the “number one priority.” His nominators say that
students reminisce about their “awesome” experiences in his classroom. He is also concerned with students outside of the classroom. Sponsoring educational tours to historic sites and coaching youth teams
are only two examples of his commitment to the whole child. Colleagues say Dan's goal is to help every student be “his/her very best through teaching life skills as well as curriculum. He reflects to
assess the effectiveness of lessons. He constantly monitors and adjusts to better meet the educational needs of his students. Dan spends countless hours planning instruction and reflecting on ways to
promote student learning.” Dan earned bachelor's degrees from The University of Kansas. He began teaching in Basehor and joined the Lawrence Public Schools and Prairie Park Elementary School in 1999.
Kathy Stuntz
Kathy Stuntz cares about kids. Colleagues say the South Junior High science teacher is most deserving of the 50th Legacy Award. One staff member said, “Kathy is constantly seeking out
new ideas and methods of connecting and involving her students.” A peer said that her “enthusiasm for this task is infectious for the rest of us. She is always ready to share her knowledge and does it
with a smile.” According to another co-worker, Kathy simply “loves the teaching profession.” Kathy serves on the Professional Development Council, is a member of the Professional Learning Community, and
serves on the Student Improvement Team with distinction. Her “work as chair of the climate committee at South has helped to make work and play here a fun and uplifting experience," colleagues said.
Additionally, she has served as co-coordinator of South's United Way campaign. A nominator said, “I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to learn so much from her over the years.” After earning her
bachelor’s degree at The University of Kansas, Kathy joined South and West Junior Highs Schools in 1992. She has taught at South Junior High since 1993. Kathy has taught math, reading, language arts, and
science.
Bob Franz
Bob Franz had worked as a school social worker for 28 years at the time he received the 51st Legacy Award. Bob works at Cordley and Prairie Park Elementary Schools and Central Junior
High. He is also a leader on the District Crisis Response and Suicide Prevention Teams. “Bob's gentle presence, expertise, and clear thinking are highly valued and appreciated by staff, students, and
families,” reads his nomination. “Bob has a knack for communicating information to parents that can be difficult to hear while at the same time offering support. He enables people to feel that they are
not alone in determining how to help children and their families. He knows how to connect people to resources in the district and community. His charisma, sensitivity and genuine interest in kids are
evident daily. Bob also has a way of developing rapport with troubled and struggling students. What starts as a conversation with him usually ends with a plan of action and new ideas to try,” colleagues
said. Bob earned a bachelor’s degree from Tabor College and a master’s degree from The University of Kansas.
Debra Green
Debra Green started teaching at Lawrence High in 1976. She’s the 52nd Legacy Award recipient. One staff member said that Debra “goes beyond the call of duty to make LHS a good place to
be. There is no one on staff who works harder for the student body and school district.” A peer said that she “takes every student, regardless of the level of proficiency, and works patiently but with
firmness in taking them to a higher level. Her concern for the well-being of the entire school and her close relationship with students help keep a finger on the pulse of the school. A student in Debra’s
class is made to feel he or she can achieve anything they work hard for.” Her nomination reads, “She asks administration and staff to be accountable. Sometimes questions asked in school meetings might
bring some discomfort, but they are always valid and thought-provoking questions that personify her commitment to the profession and to Lawrence High School.” Debra teaches mathematics and has sponsored
the cheerleading squad and the spirit club. She has also served as a member of the Student Assistance Program, the Schedule ’95 Committee, and the North Central Citizenship Committee. She earned her
bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The University of Kansas.
Diane Toplikar
The 53rd Legacy Award recognized Diane Toplikar, Free State High School library media specialist. Both kids and staff appreciate Diane's work. Her "gentle presence and expertise" are
highly valued. She is described by co-workers as being a “teacher in every sense of the word” and “steady, even-tempered, and remarkably upbeat, day after day.” She is a tremendous asset to Lawrence Free
State High School. Diane advises 200 kids through her co-sponsorship of the National Honor Society. "Everything she does with this organization is in the best interest of the students. She doesn’t skirt
any issue in the conversations she may need to have with the students. She tells them what they need to hear, whether they like it or not. She is always polite and classy when she does this," colleagues
said. Diane always manages to keep her sense of humor though she works seven days a week at two different jobs. Her nomination reads, “People can see an aspect of her humor whenever they see the
pink-feather boa that is wrapped around her computer. Her sensitivity and genuine interest in kids is evident daily, particularly during finals week. There is hot chocolate powder flying everywhere during
this time as Diane prepares hot chocolate for the students during finals week.” Diane earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Kansas and a master’s degree from Emporia State University. The last
ten of her 29 years of experience have been in Lawrence at Free State High School, with much of her previous experience in Ottawa.
Ron Lang
“Ron is the consummate professional who has impacted thousands of students in countless ways," reads the nomination of Ron Lang as the recipient of the 54th Legacy Award. Co-workers
describe the Lawrence High School English teacher as the calm and steady rock in the storm of educational ideas, innovations and changes. "He comes to work each and every day with a positive attitude and
a love for life that rubs off on staff, faculty, and students," nominators wrote. Ron’s nomination further reads, “He has high expectations for students – whether they are of low or high ability. In fact,
he refuses to differentiate between the ability levels of students – and insists that each student has the same ability to do his or her very best. Ron was an advocate for ‘No Child Left Behind’ long
before it became a requirement.” Colleagues add, “All of his students are taught with respect and dignity. Students fortunate enough to have him as a teacher receive not only lessons in English, but also
lessons in life. He knows that a daily hour with students should not only focus on English, but should also have some relevancy in their lives and future careers and families." A co-worker described Ron
Lang as representative of all that is good and true in the teaching profession: "A diligent, industrious person who simply works, and is ever-present at Lawrence High School, rarely missing a day of work
and often logging additional hours in during the weekend." Lawrence High School Principal Steve Nilhas indicates that Ron Lang's name should be included in the definition of professional because he truly
exemplifies how a professional educator should look, act and believe. Ron began student teaching at LHS in 1969 and joined the staff in 1973. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The
University of Kansas, and is certified in English, speech and theatre arts, physical education, health, general science, psychology, and building administration.
Michel Loomis
The 1999 Lawrence Secondary Teacher of the Year is the 55th recipient of the Legacy Award. Nominators say that Michel Loomis, Central Junior High English teacher, dignifies all of her
students in the way she manages her classroom. "She exhibits a genuine personal interest in the welfare of all students and maintains a belief that they all can be successful learners. Subsequently,
students live up to that belief,” reads her nomination. “Students are never late to her class. They may be late for other classes but never hers! She talks with them about how important it is for them to
be there. She helps them understand that her classes could not function without each individual student. Along with that she keeps her classroom stocked with water. She does this so her students don’t
need to leave to get a drink. She tells them that she cannot bear to have them out of class for even a minute. If they need water, just get a bottle and leave a quarter behind so that she is able to
restock the mini refrigerator.” Nominators say that Loomis teaches life lessons as they pertain to what her students are learning. "After teaching a unit on the book The Outsiders she included a lesson on
the five stages of grief to give the students an understanding on how to cope with losses they may face in their own lives. While reading the book Mississippi Trial, 1955, which is about the murder of
Emmett Till, she held discussions about modern day racism and how it manifests itself. She wants students to truly experience the literature they explore together. After reading Great Expectations with
her students they always have a traditional English tea party," her nomination reads. Loomis earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Olaf College. She taught at Knox College in Marshall, Wisconsin, and in
Bellingham, Washington, before joining the Lawrence Public Schools where she has been part of the Central Junior High staff for 25 years.
Katie Aschenbach
She values all students. That’s what nominators say about the 56th Legacy Award recipient, Katie Aschenbach, speech and language pathologist at Woodlawn Elementary and Central Junior
High. Katie’s nomination reads, "She is an advocate for every child she encounters. To her the driving force is what is best for that individual child. Caseloads and labels mean nothing if she sees a
child who needs some help." A colleague said, “Katie is a very easy-going, kind and generous person to both fellow staff and students. Even though we may only see each other a few times a year, it's like
picking up where you left off with an old friend. When staffing issues arise she has readily volunteered or accepted changes in placement with a 'can do' attitude. Lawrence is fortunate to have such a
skilled professional providing services to students.” Katie earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Steven's Point. She has worked for Lawrence Public Schools since
1997. Along with her current assignments of Woodlawn and Central, she has worked at South Junior High and Broken Arrow and East Heights Elementary Schools.
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