Meramec Valley R-III School District is pleased to congratulate Jerri Anding for being chosen as a 2024 Regional Teacher of the Year. As District Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Anding had been advanced as a candidate for Missouri’s South Central Regional Teacher of the Year award.
“I am very honored to represent Meramec Valley as Regional Teacher of the Year. This recognition is very much appreciated. I love that I can give back to the school district that has made an impact on my life,” said Anding.
The award was presented to Mrs. Anding on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, during the South Central Regional Professional Development Center ceremony held at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla.
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MVR-III Superintendent Dr. Carrie Schwierjohn said of Anding, “I am so proud of Mrs. Anding for representing Meramec Valley as Regional Teacher of the Year. All of us in MVNation have seen Mrs. Anding’s dedication to her profession and devotion to both her students and the wider school community. She truly serves as an inspiration for all educators in our region and across the state.”
The South Central region covers thirteen counties and 63 school districts. Anding was one of ten finalists who had been advanced to this level. When choosing recipients of this award, the selection committee looks for the following attributes:
Candidates must be highly respected by students, parents, colleagues and the community
Candidates must play an active role in the school community providing service and leadership
Candidates must be able to demonstrate a strong ability to foster excellence in education through improved student learning
Mrs. Anding becomes the third MVR-III teacher to earn this award since its inception in 2016, joining Mr. Ed Kappeler and Mrs. Sarah Grodie. Thirty-four Regional Teachers of the Year are chosen and may choose to submit an application to the Missouri State Teacher of the Year program. The Missouri State Board of Education will honor the Teacher of the Year, state finalists, and Regional Teachers of the Year at a banquet in Jefferson City on October 21, 2024.
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Mrs. Anding has taught at Zitzman Elementary for 26 years, spending the past 14 in kindergarten. Aside from being a standout teacher, this award also recognizes her active involvement within the community. She serves on the Meramec Valley Bridge Foundation, as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in the Franklin County foster care system, and as a volunteer in local athletic programs.
Zitzman Elementary principal Keith Orris said, “Mrs. Anding is a remarkable teacher who makes a positive impact that lasts a lifetime with each one of her students. She excels in education, instilling foundational skills and essential values such as kindness, empathy, and communication. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Anding volunteers to support all children in our community. She is truly deserving of the Regional Teacher of the Year award!”