Two Ferdinand Elementary teachers named as leaders in education
Wendholt and Heilers both recognized for their dedication to students and awarded $1,000 each
Karen Wendholt and Denise Heilers of Ferdinand Elementary School were named Peabody Energy Leaders in Education for the 2014-15 school year, and awarded $1,000 for their dedication and commitment to students.
When Wendholt recognized that her third-graders needed to develop higher order thinking skills if they were to remain successful, she began encouraging them to debate and discuss their learning with each other. She transformed her classroom into a think-tank where questions are not only welcome, they are encouraged. Wendholt consistently communicates with parents via phone calls, emails, newsletters and conferences when needed—and has been known to reconcile many situations with her professional communication skills.
Continually raising the bar to prompt her 10-year-old scholars to excel, Heilers instructs English language arts, math, science, and social skills. In addition to being an outstanding teacher, she is also a highly effective dance coach. Heilers is truly a leader when it comes to implementing ideas in the classroom to enhance learning, fun, and rigor. She constantly raises the bar for her students and colleagues, and pushes both her students and her peers to attain higher levels at every turn.
The Peabody Energy Leaders in Education program rewards dedicated education professionals—from teachers and coaches to librarians and counselors—who inspire and motivate youth to succeed. Award recipients are selected throughout the school year by a committee of top educators and business leaders.
The Leaders program was developed in Missouri in 2009, and reflects Peabody’s commitment to make a positive impact in the communities where the company’s employees live and work by honoring those who inspire students. The 2014-2015 award program is continuing to accept nominations and is open to educational professionals of public, private and independent schools in designated communities where Peabody Energy employees live and work. Nominations may be made at www.PeabodyEnergyLeadersInEducation.org.
Honorees are selected from a diverse group of educators. They can range from veteran teachers to individuals in support staff roles such as administrators, coaches or counselors. Each 2014-2015 Leader in Education will be honored at an awards gala after this school year, where one will be named Educator of the Year and awarded $5,000.
Nominations may be made at: www.PeabodyEnergyLeadersInEducation.org.
More information can also be found at: www.facebook.com/PeabodyEnergyLeaders
