Grateful students honor teachers
Pictured left to right: Andy Abner – Rock Canyon High School principal, Chris Anderson – Castle Rock Stake President for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Erin Kane – Douglas County School District superintendent, Anthony Kappas – Douglas County High School principal, Jeena Templeton – Castle View High School principal, and Dr. Christopher Page – Highlands Ranch High School principal all joined with students to honor the impact of teachers at a teacher appreciation event last month.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently held its annual teacher appreciation night. High school seniors and early graduating juniors from Castle Rock, Larkspur, Castle Pines, Lone Tree and Highlands Ranch honored a teacher, coach or mentor who made a positive impact in their lives.
The evening included a formal program with a vocal musical number, a keynote speaker and a variety of desserts, as well as a video of students talking about the positive impact of their revered teachers.
On stage, students honored their chosen teacher as they read a personalized tribute and presented a plaque that included the student’s photo and a copy of the tribute.
This long-held tradition is a favorite of students and administrators alike. School principals, along with district and church leaders, are always in attendance. The keynote speaker this year was SuzAnne Brothers-Varley, a resident in The Village at Castle Pines. SuzAnne spoke of the bright future of the graduating students and honored her own teachers who never gave up on her as a struggling student and high school dropout.
Closing remarks were given by Chris Anderson, Castle Rock Stake President, the highest church leadership position in the Castle Rock area. Chris echoed students’ words as he emphasized the immense influence these teachers had on the younger generation.
“There are about 80 young men and women from our local congregations who were taught by you who are now missionaries,” said Chris. “Your influence is so much bigger than your classrooms; it extends across the globe as these young people follow your example of selfless service, acts of kindness and devotion.”
About one quarter of the 49 participating students attend Rock Canyon High School (RCHS). Senior Kyia Sparks honored former RCHS English teacher Sheela Maupin. Sheela currently teaches at Cherry Creek High School, but is not forgotten by her RCHS students.
“She helped me become a better writer and has always been someone I could talk to when I needed it. She is not only a teacher but a friend,” said Kyia.
Kyia and many other students said they felt seen both as a student and as an individual. It is no secret that teachers invest much of themselves into their students, often with only fleeting recognition. This annual appreciation program aims to rectify that. Kyia summed it up: “She [Sheila Maupin] has changed my life, and I am forever grateful for that.”
RCHS student Bentley Glauser honored Hannah Klein, RCHS Spanish teacher. He presented her with a plaque that included his photograph and the tribute he shared with the audience at the annual Teacher Appreciation.
By Celeste McNeil; photos courtesy of Cherise Glauser
