Area educator wins statewide honor

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L to R: M. Beranek, ISEA President, T Makinster, Princess Moss, NEA Secretary Treasurer

DES MOINES, IA (08/02/2018) (readMedia)-- Terri Makinster, a kindergarten teacher at Viola Gibson Elementary School in Cedar Rapids, is a 2018 Excellence in Education Award runner-up. The award is sponsored by the Iowa State Education Association (ISEA). Makinster was chosen among a top field of educators-all nominated by colleagues, students, parents and community members-because of the difference they make every day in the lives of Iowa's students.

"This award is truly about recognizing the educators who work hard on a daily basis and rarely get the recognition they so richly deserve," said Mike Beranek, President of the ISEA. The nominations we receive are a testament to the dedication and compassion Iowa educators have for their students and the communities in which they live. Clearly, our educators go above and beyond to help shape the lives of the students they teach."

Ms. Mak, as she is known among her students, leaves everyone with a sense of being loved. She sets up the classroom so her students are comfortable and involved using a blanket for a learning area and stuffed toys for both the students and visitors like grandma and grandpa. Wanting to help all of her students feel included, safe and loved, Makinster encourages them to strive for their best, while building strong self-esteem.

"It is clear that Terri has a tremendous impact in her classroom and beyond, and we applaud her achievement," said Beranek. The Excellence in Education Award celebrates educators who are invested in the lives of their students and make an exceptional experience for them."

Now in its 18th year, the Excellence in Education Award honors educators around the state who make a difference in their classroom. Nominations are solicited beginning in January through March.

Makinster received her award at ISEA's Celebration of Excellence banquet on Monday, July 30, at the West Des Moines Sheraton in West Des Moines.

The winner of the 2018 Excellence in Education Award is Kathy Kleen, high school Biology, Anatomy and AP Biology teacher at Spirit Lake High School in Spirit Lake. Kleen received $1,000 courtesy of the ISEA. Other runners-up honored included Dr. Valerie Betz, a Family and Consumer Science teacher at Central DeWitt Community High School in DeWitt; Lisa Hagemeier, a 6th grade Communications and high school Spanish teacher at Harlan Community High School in Harlan; and Cody Lakose a Science teacher at DeWitt High School in DeWitt. All runners-up received $100 courtesy of the ISEA.

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The ISEA is a private organization of professional educators who are dedicated to supporting and protecting a quality education for all Iowa students.