The Kansas Teacher of the Year Award recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. Each year, Turner’s schools select their building teacher of the year nominee. Then, a committee selects one secondary and one elementary teacher as the district nominees. Congratulations to this year’s Elementary Kansas Teacher of the Year nominee, Ms. Caroline Clark, second grade teacher at Turner Elementary!

Q: Why did you choose to go into the teaching field?

A: I chose to go into teaching because I believe high-quality education is essential to creating a more equitable society. My first experience in education came during a study abroad program where I saw firsthand how students’ opportunities and life paths can differ based on access to education. That experience reshaped my perspective - I changed my major to education upon returning home. Since then, I have fallen in love with the profession. Watching students make meaningful connections to content and grow academically, socially, and emotionally has confirmed that teaching is exactly where I am meant to be.

Q: What have you most enjoyed about teaching?

A: There have been many highlights throughout the years, but the most rewarding has always been watching students grow. As a primary teacher, I have the privilege of seeing students transform from having little reading knowledge to confidently picking up a chapter book on their own. Being present for each step of that journey and guiding students as they build the foundational skills they will use for the rest of their lives is deeply fulfilling.

Q: What do you most like about teaching in Turner?

A: Being part of such a close-knit and supportive community. I love having the opportunity to teach students, then later teach their siblings, and continue building relationships as families move through our schools. Just as important are the strong connections among teachers across the district. Collaborating with colleagues allows us to learn from one another, share ideas, and continually improve our practice for the benefit of all students. The fact that so many staff members choose to send their own children to school here speaks volumes about the quality of education we provide and the trust within our community. Turner is a wonderful place to work, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving students and families.