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 Secondary Kansas Teacher of the Year nominee, Ms. Lydia Bender, Physics & Chemistry Teacher at Turner High School!

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

A: Teaching wasn't always part of my plan, but in time became an undeniable aspect of my passion. After high school, I was encouraged by my dad to study Physics. It was the one area in school that piqued my curiosity, challenged my way of thinking, and gave me the tools to make sense of complex ideas. Throughout my studies, I worked with other students in the capacity of a tutor, teaching assistant, recitation instructor, and lab instructor. These experiences ultimately led me to the teaching profession by shedding light on my love for sharing Physics with others and watching them develop the confidence to engage in challenging problem-solving in and outside of the classroom.

Q: What have you most enjoyed about teaching?

A: I have enjoyed watching students embrace challenge. Challenging yourself is an uncomfortable task, and we often tend to shy away from tasks that feel too difficult. Throughout my time at Turner, I have watched countless number of students throw themselves into challenging problem-solving and find success from hard work. The real reward is watching them take the skills and knowledge they developed in the classroom and apply it to their own passions.

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

A: I enjoy the people that make up the district. From district office to members in the community, Turner is a tight knit community that cares about the people inside of it.