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Kansas Teacher of the Year Elementary Nominee

Congratulations to Anne Atkinson, Junction Elementary Teacher!

The Kansas Teacher of the Year program is facilitated by the Kansas Department of Education. The award recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. Its mission is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.

Each year, every district in the state submits a secondary and an elementary nominee for consideration. Congratulations to USD 202's elementary nominee this year, Anne Atkinson! Read below for a Q&A with Ms. Atkinson.
 

Anne Atkinson, Junction Elementary Teacher

Q: Why did you choose to go into the teaching field?  
A: I come from a family of educators so I guess it is in my genes. My dad was the first principal of the old Pierson Junior High School, and he sparked my interest in Turner. I'm so glad he did! Every day as a teacher is different and interesting, and I have never wanted to do anything else.

Q: What have you most enjoyed from your years teaching?  
A: Interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds has been the best part of my teaching career. I have taught in both suburban and inner-city school districts and learned a lot everywhere I have been. The connections with students, parents, co-workers, administrators, and support staff have given me much fulfillment over my long career.

Q: What do you most like about teaching in the Turner School District?  
A: As a member of the Turner school community for 30 years, I have now taught the parents, aunts, uncles, and siblings of my current students. I have connections with so many families who have benefitted from the stability and positive atmosphere here. These relationships have fostered a supportive environment, which makes my job much easier. I have really enjoyed watching my students move through the educational process and become adults with jobs and families of their own.