Pershing elementary educator honored as one of northwest regional teacher of the year honorees

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- A dedicated educator from Pershing Elementary School has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the classroom and community.

In a surprise celebration held on Tuesday, July 8, one of Pershing’s teachers, Mary Sanders, was announced as one of two Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year honorees.

The special event took place at the Troester Media Center, where Pershing Elementary Principal Holly Brady announced the honor at a professional development session.

District staff, family members and community supporters gathered to make the moment extra special for the honoree, who was visibly moved by the recognition.

Sanders is coming up on her 13th year of teaching. She is currently a fourth-grade teacher within the Saint Joseph School District.

"I'm so proud to work for the St. Joe School District. I'm so proud to work at Pershing Elementary," said Sanders. "I work with the best teachers, staff, custodians, engineers, kitchen staff, everybody from every part of the school works so hard for our kids."

The honor is part of the Missouri Teacher of the Year program, coordinated by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Northwest Regional Professional Development Center.

The program celebrates exceptional educators who demonstrate excellence in their profession and inspire both students and colleagues.

Official statewide announcements from DESE are expected on Thursday, July 17.