Area educators given statewide recognition

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L to R: M. Beranek, President, ISEA, C. Lakose, Princess Moss, NEA Secretary Treasuer

DES MOINES, IA (08/01/2018) (readMedia)-- Cody Lakose, a high school Anatomy and Science educator and Dr. Valarie Betz, a Family and Consumer Science educator both from Central DeWitt High School in DeWitt, were among four educators named the ISEA 2018 Excellence in Education Award runners-up. The award is sponsored by the Iowa State Education Association (ISEA). Lakose and Betz were 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."

Lakose's dual credit Anatomy class is a college level course. He teaches the same curriculum to college students in the summers at Eastern Iowa Community College. Lakose holds morning labs and weekly study sessions to keep students enthused and prepared. He is the weight room supervisor, assistant football, basketball and baseball coach understanding that athletic discipline is important in school as well. Both his students and athletes respect his commitment to them, so give it back in spades as they work hard to earn good grades and do well on the team.

Betz makes sure her students are well prepared and are offered the best curriculum possible, often spending hours before and after school prepping. She excels at inspiring her students to become their best both inside and outside the classroom. Instilling confidence with her own leadership and by challenging her students with tough assignments she expects them to work hard and go the extra mile. Betz takes her time with her students and offers a steady hand and cool guidance when needed the most. She is a trusted leader with students, colleagues and in her community.

"It is clear that both Cody and Valarie have a tremendous impact in their classrooms and beyond, and we applaud their achievements," 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.

Lakose received his award at ISEA's Celebration of Excellence banquet on Monday, July 30, at the West Des Moines Sheraton in West Des Moines. Dr. Betz was out of town and unable to attend the ceremony but will receive her award upon her return.

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 Lisa Hagemeier, a 6th grade Communications and high school Spanish teacher at Harlan Community High School in Harlan; and Terri Makinster, a kindergarten teacher at Viola Gibson Elementary School in Cedar Rapids. All runners-up received $100 courtesy of the ISEA.

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

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