WAL-MART HONORS KOENIG AS 'TEACHER OF THE YEAR'

More than half a century after she rang her first school bell at Hildebrand School, near Friedheim, Helenmarie Koenig has received a totally unexpected honor.

The St. Paul Lutheran teacher has been named Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year by the associates from the Jackson Wal-Mart.

"I was shocked," Koenig said after receiving a plaque and a check for $500 for St. Paul school. "I had known nothing about this; it wasn't something I applied for. It was a complete shock, but I'm thankful that I can be teacher of the year."

Koenig, who taught three years at Hildebrand School and six at Arnsberg School (also near Friedham), has been at St. Paul Lutheran since 1959. During her 51-year career, she has missed a total of nine days due to family funerals and her husband's eye surgery. She has not missed a single day due to her own ill health.

"She's been fairly dependable," joked St. Paul Principal Al Lipke.

Koenig was one of more than 2,500 teachers from around the country who were selected to receive the 1999 award. The winners received a total of more than $1.25 million in grants for their schools or school districts.

"Teachers have one of the most challenging and critical jobs in our country," said David Glass, president and chief executive officer of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. "The Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year Award program is our associates' way of letting teachers know how much we appreciate their contributions to the education of our youth, which in turn contribute to the vitality of our communities."