Teachers Honored for Excellence

Two area teachers have been honored for their pedagogical acumen with an Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award from the St. Louis-based company.

Affton High School mathematics teacher Karen Schuering and Bayless Intermediate School reading specialist Kelly O’Connor were among the nearly 100 St. Louis-area educators named as recipients of the award. According to a press release, the two were nominated by their administrators and chosen for “their commitment to students and their achievements in the classroom.”

“The prosperity of a region is directly linked to the education of its residents, and therefore it is important to recognize, if not salute, the dedication and innovation shown towards our finest educators,” said David N. Farr, chairman and CEO of Emerson.

O’Connor has been with the Bayless School District for six years and Bayless Intermediate Principal Kim Stallons said she sets an example for her fellow teachers as well as her students.

“She is a teacher-leader in our school in every way, including promoting academic excellence and being a good character role model,” Stallons said.

Stallons said O’Connor is willing to take on extra duties such as providing professional development for other teachers and facilitating the school’s student intervention process. However, above all, her goal is “to make learning fun for kids,” Stallons said.

“She is very passionate about education, knowledgeable and enthusiastic,” Stallons added.

The two teachers will receive a crystal apple to mark their achievement and will be honored during a ceremony Nov. 13 at the Sheldon Concert Hall in St. Louis.