Teachers Nominated for Statewide Recognition

Topeka West social studies teacher Lorie Booher and McClure Elementary teacher Karen Manhart have been named TPS nominees for the 2013 Teacher of the Year Award sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education. Robinson teacher Kimberly Sonnich has been selected as the TPS nominee for the 2012 Master Teacher Award sponsored by Emporia State University.

Lorie  Booher began her career with TPS in 1986 at Jardine Middle School. In 2001, she began teaching and coaching at Topeka West High School where she currently serves as the social studies department chair. She also serves on the district social studies curriculum and assessment team. Topeka West Principal Jeanne Carton says, "Ms. Booher has numerous educational accomplishments and contributions. She is a model teacher--always positive, collegial and accountable to everything she does."

Karen Manhart began teaching at Shaner Elementary in 1991. Since 1993, she has taught at McClure Elementary. McClure Principal Nancy Hedstrom says, " Karen is a fantastic teacher. She meets the needs of each and every child who walks through her classroom door and takes them beyond what they think they can achieve."

Kimberly Sonnich has taught language arts at Robinson Middle School since 2003. Robinson Principal Tammy Hazelton says, "Ms. Sonnich is loved by her students. Her classroom is filled with high expectations, high engagement and lessons that provide life relevance."

The three nominees will prepare portfolios to submit for state-level judging. Master Teacher winners are announced in late spring. Teacher of the Year finalists will be announced next fall.