Debra Snow, Kathy Wagner, Robert Leikam, Brad Hollinger, Patty Wolf, Trudy Hofman (L-R)
Christian Schools
Trudy Hoffman is a dedicated, student-focused third and fourth grade teacher at Midland Adventist Academy, Shawnee. Grounded in her commitment to train her students to think, she focuses on providing her students with a Christ-centered education that prepares them for service on earth and a heart for heaven. Mrs. Hoffman’s more than 20-year tenure at Midland Academy has included two separate periods that have involved teaching grades four through seven, serving as elementary vice principal and principal.
“Her passion, empathy, purpose and uncommon common sense have warmed the hearts of students and parents throughout her career,” Daniel Kittle, Principal, Midland Adventist Academy, said.
Mrs. Hoffman earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Union College, Lincoln, NE (1974) and master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Loma Linda University, CA.
Diocese of Dodge City
Patty Wolf strives to make a difference in each one of the lives of her sixth-grade students at Holy Family School in Great Bend. A much-valued member of the faculty since 2001, Ms. Wolf always has a plan for reaching the needs of every student and is determined to see that every student graduates from her classroom respectful, responsible and prepared. She expects the best from every student and while students may “dread” her as their upcoming teacher, by the end of the year, she has become their favorite.
“Patty is not a teacher who makes the teaching profession look easy… she makes it look honorable and inspires others in the profession to strive for greatness,” said Karen Moeder, Principal, Holy Family School.
Ms. Wolf earned a B.S. in Elementary Education from Marymount College of Kansas (1984).
Independent Schools
Kathy Wagner has taught physical education for all grades during her 44-year tenure at Wichita Collegiate School. Additionally she was the former PE department chair, and has coached cheerleading, girls’ basketball, gymnastics, volleyball and track. Ms. Wagner is renown for her outstanding and imaginative curriculum. In 2017-2018 students are studying the seven natural wonders of North America and the world all through physical activity.
“Through her devotion to our school and her high expectations for student learning, Kathy sets the standard for quality teaching,” Becky O’Hearn, Head of Early Childhood, Wichita Collegiate School, said. “She has made an indelible mark on the life of every student she teaches.”
Ms. Wagner earned a B.A. in Education from Wichita State University (1974) and a master’s of Education from Emporia State University (2004).
Lutheran Schools
Debra Snow has been a much-beloved kindergarten teacher at Holy Cross Lutheran School, Wichita, since 2012, but her teaching career spans 33 years and has included teaching first and second grades and ESOL. She is well known for her rigorous curriculum development, technology integration and creative teaching. Ms. Snow works diligently to develop each student’s academic potential and takes advantage of all resources available including a phonics curriculum, a Smart Board and iPads, and collaborations with the 8th grade class for unique activities.
“Deb continually tries to improve her instruction and wants to learn new ways of teaching. She recently presented a session on classroom management for the purpose of helping other teachers,” said Karen Boettcher, Principal, Holy Cross Lutheran School.
Ms. Snow attained her B.S. in Education from Concordia University – Seward, NE (1984).
Diocese of Salina
Robert (Bob) Leikam has brought a team spirit and no-nonsense work ethic to Thomas More Prep-Marian Jr/Sr. High School since 2012 where he serves as American History teacher and Junior High Principal. He was previously a teacher and administrator for 32 years in Victoria, KS at the public high school. A 1975 graduate of TMP-Marian, Mr. Leikam is passionate about improving the lives of his students. His lifelong loyalty is exemplified by his optimism, positivity and constant smile.
“Bob speaks eloquently about how TMP-Marian helped him become a good student, but more so how it helped him become a strong man of faith,” Chad Meitner, Principal, TMP-Marian, said.
Mr. Leikam attained both his bachelor’s degree in Political Science (1979) and his master’s degree in History and Educational Leadership (1989) from Fort Hays State University.
Brad Hollinger has been an exemplary physical education teacher at Holy Cross Catholic School, Hutchinson, for the past eight years where he teaches pre-Kindergarten through sixth grade. However, his teaching career began in Mound Ridge public schools in 1992. In addition to keeping his students continually active, he serves as lead teacher, is the first to arrive each morning and volunteers to meet any need at the school.
“Brad is a phenomenal physical education teacher because he relates to all age groups, models and leads a prayerful environment and connects daily lessons to religious values naturally,” said Amy Wagoner, Principal, Holy Cross School.
Mr. Hollinger earned his B.S. in Art Education from the University of Nebraska (1992) and an M.S. in Sports Administration from Wichita State University (1999)
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