Cape Chamber Educators of the Year

Last Thursday five Cape Girardeau educators were recognized by the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee as the organization's 2011 Educators of the Year.

This year's honorees include:

* Julia Unnerstall, an elementary counselor at Alma Schrader Elementary.

* Janet Brase, a fourth-grade teacher at Blanchard Elementary.

* Kristin Gill, a second-grade teacher at Blanchard Elementary.

* Dennis Wilson, the visual arts teacher at Central Junior High School.

* Dr. Steven Hoffman, a professor in the Department of History and coordinator of the Historic Preservation Program in the College of Liberal Arts at Southeast Missouri State University.

The educators honored received the Crystal Apple Award, a $500 check and a commemorative video. The Missouri House of Representatives and Senate also recognized the honorees with resolutions.

We sometimes hear of those who see teaching or education in general as merely "a job." But for these educators, there's a sense of fulfillment when they see their students succeed.

These Cape Girardeau educators, as recognized by the public's nominations and the chamber's extensive selection process, are some of Cape Girardeau's best, and we're grateful they have chosen a career in education. Congratulations to all the award recipients, and thank you to all the dedicated teachers in Southeast Missouri.