Three Cape Public Schools teachers honored

The Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee honored three Cape Girardeau Public School District teachers-- Lee Ann Norris, Stacy Stapleton and Marty Vines-- at the Educator Appreciation Reception last week at The Venue in Cape Girardeau. Each received the prestigious Crystal Apple Award, a $500 check and a commemorative video. Pictured at the reception, from the left, are Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jim Welker; Jefferson Elementary Third Grade Teacher Stacy Stapleton; Jefferson Elementary Principal Christa Turner; Cape Central High School Special Services Teacher Lee Ann Norris; Cape Central High School Principal Dr. Mike Cowan; Cape Central High School Social Studies Teacher Marty Vines and Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Dr. Sherry Copeland.

Stacy Stapleton holds a Master of Arts Degree from Nova Southeastern University, a Bachelor of Science Degree from Sterling College, and an Associate Degree from Hutchinson Community College. Ms. Stapleton began her teaching career in 1992 at Lincoln Elementary School in Hays, Kansas. She is a Big (mentor) with Big Brothers Big Sisters and enjoys many hobbies including reading, traveling, movies, gardening, running, volunteering for Greater Dimensions Ministries and enjoys spending time with her husband and her dogs.

Lee Ann Norris received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Southeast Missouri State University. She holds a certification in Exceptional Child Education with K-12 certification for the Trainable and Severely Handicapped. Ms. Norris began her career in teaching at the State Schools for the Severely Handicapped in Missouri and taught for St. Louis Special School District for twelve years prior to coming to Central High School. Ms. Norris enjoys traveling with her husband to visit their six grown children and their families, volunteering at church and choir activities.

Marty Vines holds a Masters of Education Degree from William Woods University, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education, as well as Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Southeast Missouri State University. Mr. Vines began his teaching career in 2001 at Scott County Central High School. He enjoys being a dad of two sons and spending time with family, participating in baseball, fishing, reading, watching movies, coaching little league baseball and taking family trips.