Kirbyville Teacher Honored...

Lara Ernsting, third grade teacher, was recently awarded Southwest Missouri Elementary Educator of the Year by the Southwest Region of the Missouri State Teachers Association (MSTA). She was nominated by the Kirbyville Community Teachers Association (CTA). There was a lengthy application process in which each candidate shared their teaching philosophy, educational and leadership accomplishments and community involvement. Several people wrote letters of recommendation. Among the many reasons Mrs. Ernsting was selected was (to quote one of her students), “She makes learning fun, even math.” In recognition of her accomplishment the SW MSTA presented her with a plaque and $500. The CTA received $250 as well.