McNally Named Teacher of the Year

(posted 05/19/06)

McKinley Elementary second grade teacher Christy McNally has been named Joplin Schools' Teacher of the Year for 2005-2006. McNally has taught at McKinley for three years and has been teaching for over 27 years. Recently, she was one of three teachers in the Joplin School District to be selected by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce for the Golden Apple Award.

"Christy is a fabulous teacher who devotes an excessive amount of time, energy and love for and to her students," says McKinley Elementary Principal Jennifer Doshier. "She is a valued member of the McKinley staff. Her dedication to her profession is something we should all strive for daily."

On Thursday, Joplin School administrators awarded McNally with a certificate and $100 for classroom supplies. She also received the first annual Fred Laas Memorial Award in the amount of $500. The Fred Laas Memorial Fund was established in 2004 by Mr. Lass's family in recognition of his lifelong work and dedication to public education in Joplin.

As Joplin's Teacher of the Year, McNally is now eligible for Missouri Teacher of the Year.

"Christy will represent Joplin well at the state level competition for Missouri Teacher of the Year," says Assistant Superintendent Charlotte Miller. "She demonstrates a deep care and passion for her students, and she is always striving to improve her instructional techniques to help the children succeed."

McNally says that winning an honor such as Teacher of the Year simply identifies her as a representative of her colleagues. "I do not believe that I stand above the crowd as I know many hard working, talented and dedicated teachers across this district in each and every building," she says. "Having said that, I do view these awards as opportunities – opportunities to give a teacher a voice – a voice for the children that have no one else to represent them. I pray that I can serve our children well."

Above (left to right): Virginia Laas, McKinley teacher Christy McNally, Superintendent Dr. Jim Simpson, and McKinley Principal Jennifer Doshier pose for a photo. McNally was named Joplin Schools' Teacher of the Year for 2005-2006 and received the first annual Fred Laas Memorial Award.

Above: Christy McNally (back left) and Principal Jennifer Doshier (back right) with McNally's second grade class at McKinley Elementary.