Teresa Schrant, Malinda Evans, Judy Strasser, John Steere, Diane Echholz, Lisa Maliszewski (L-R)
Diocese of Dodge City
Judy Strasser is a beloved second grade teacher who has taught at St. Dominic Catholic School (Garden City) for the past 25 years. While she might creatively feature an “Enchanted Forest” for Reading Week, it’s her loving demeanor, thorough preparation and patience that sets her apart. In addition, second graders prepare to take the sacrament of First Holy Communion under her careful guidance, which for her is a privilege.
“Mrs. Strasser is one of those employees who are in a profession because it is a true extension of ‘who they are,’” Trina Delgado, Principal, St. Dominic Catholic School said. “Her life is that of a Catholic teacher,within the walls of our school and parish and the community she lives in.”
Mrs. Strasser earned a BS in elementary education from St. Mary of the Plains (1993).
Great Plains Alliance of Christian Schools
Malinda Evans has been an outstanding Intervention Specialist since 2014 for the students and teachers at Maranatha Christian Academy (Shawnee). In her position, she teaches students with diverse learning needs including those who are academically talented – and builds a love of learning. Recently, she created the TalentED program at Maranatha for K-12 grades, where she advises teachers on effective accommodations in the classroom for her individual students.
“Mrs. Evans works tirelessly to provide valuable assistance and resources to the students and their parents,” said Janet Fogh, Head of School, Maranatha Christian Academy. “She does so with tremendous kindness and professionalism.”
Mrs. Evans received a BA in English literature (1998) and an MA in elementary education (2005) from the University of New Mexico.
Independent Schools
John Steere left his law practice to become a teacher in 2000 and for the past 19 years, he has been a student-favorite faculty member teaching history, government and business law at The Independent School of Wichita. He is also the coach of state-winning debate and Mock Trial teams. As sponsor of the National Honor Society, he elevated community service, which resulted in the annual NHS-sponsored blood drive.
“John Steere became a teacher because that was his passion. He is what all teachers aspire to be: experts in their field and models for their students,” said Karen Norton, Interim Head of School, The Independent School.
Mr. Steere earned both a BA in psychology (1984) and Juris Doctorate degree (1987) from the University of Kansas. He attained his teaching license (2000) from Newman University.
Lutheran Schools
Diane Eichholz began teaching at Hope Lutheran School (Shawnee) in 1980 when there was only a preschool. For the past 17 years, she has joyfully taught first grade. In addition, she has served as director of the preschool and interim principal. Searching to enhance students’ learning, Mrs. Eichholz utilizes unique programs and recently obtained a grant for Lexia literacy software at her school.
“Mrs. Eichholz is a dynamic and greatly admired teacher who has a heart for teaching and shares the love of God in the classroom every day,” said Nancy Jankowski, Principal, Hope Lutheran.
Mrs. Eichholz holds a BS in elementary education from St. Mary University, Leavenworth (1993), a BA in Christian education from Concordia University, Seward, NE (2003) and an MA from MidAmerica Nazarene University (2001).
Diocese of Salina
Teresa Schrant is a creative and devoted fourth grade teacher at Holy Family Catholic Elementary School (Hays). She began her career there in 1981 and has also taught second grade. While she maintains high expectations of her students, she inspires them to go beyond their expectations. Her commitment to faith and a love of culture has resulted in her initiating now traditional events at the school, including Mary’s Baby Shower and Pancake Races. She also organizes the annual spelling bee.
“Mrs. Schrant is a teacher leader in our school building that supports the needs of students and staff while helping create a culture of excellence with fun and celebration sprinkled inappropriately,” said Rachel Wentling, Principal, Holy Family Catholic School.
Mrs. Schrant earned a BS in elementary education from Fort Hays State University (1981).
Lisa Maliszewski teaches middle school English Language Arts at St. Catherine of Siena CatholicSchool (Wichita) with great creative intentionality – while interweaving important Catholic faith lessons. Now in her third year at St. Catherine’s, her teaching career began in Florida in 2003. Using project-based learning and enrichment options with one-on-one writing conferences and total participation techniques, Mrs. Maliszewski challenges her students and mixes in fun rewards.
“Mrs. Maliszewski is a wonderful teacher and a faithful Catholic who lets her faith drive her mission as a Catholic educator every day,” said Jeremy Barr, Principal, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School.
Mrs. Maliszewski attained her BA from St. Thomas University, St. Paul, MN (1984) and an MA from Loyola University -New Orleans (2007).
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