Two graduates of HLGU recognized as Outstanding Beginning Teachers in Missouri

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Kyra Johnson and Judy Lionberger were recognized as two of Missouri’s Outstanding Beginning Teachers at the spring conference of the Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE) on Feb. 17.

Johnson, a graduate of Hannibal-LaGrange University, is teaching special education at Holden High School. During her time at Holden High School, she transitioned from student teaching to becoming a highly involved and valuable staff member.

During her student teaching semester, Johnson took over the role of a full-time teacher who had to leave due to a family medical emergency. After completing her required student teaching, Johnson was hired mid-year and immediately assumed a role within the district. Johnson took over an existing special education workload.

According to Grant Guevel, Holden R-III High School principal, Johnson has demonstrated an exceptional understanding of and interest in implementing effective co-teaching practices, which she has modeled across the social studies, science and math content areas.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Johnson now leads the theater production, chaperones student activities and regularly helps run activity gates throughout the school.

Lionberger, a graduate of Hannibal-LaGrange University, is teaching early childhood special education/preschool at Ralls County Elementary in the Ralls County School District.

Ellen Britt, special services director at Ralls County R-II Schools, recommended Lionberger for the award.

According to Britt, Lionberger has already demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaging classroom environment for her preschool students that also integrates early childhood special education students. She adapts lessons to meet diverse learning needs and communicates effectively with her colleagues and parents. She builds strong relationships with students while teaching early childhood skills.

Britt said Lionberger has shown remarkable growth through continuous reflection and professional development. She pays attention to detail concerning special education compliance and is cognizant of meeting timelines.

MACTE is a state affiliate of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education and represents the educator preparation programs across the state.

The Outstanding Beginning Teacher Awards recognize teachers in their first two years of service who demonstrate excellence in serving children in school districts across Missouri. Award recipients were selected based on recommendations from Missouri’s teacher education programs and a recommendation from honorees’ school districts.

All of the Outstanding Beginning Teachers received an award packet to commemorate their accomplishments, including a banner for display in their classroom or school.