Jackson teachers

This time of the year is usually one for recognizing students: graduations have commenced, students have received their report cards, and now they're looking to find ways to have fun now that school is out.

In a general sense, not so much attention is given to teachers this time of year, though they're busier at year's end than any other time. The Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce a few weeks ago recognized five teachers during its annual educators banquet. The chamber is to be commended for taking the time and resources to recognize the outstanding teachers.

The educators of the year awards were given to Cindy Rodgers, Steve Wachter, Casey Brennan, Paul Fliege and Renee Deken.

Rodgers teaches at West Lane Elementary, having taught first grade for 20 years and being the Title 1 reading teacher the last four. Wachter is retiring this year after 31 years of teaching. He teaches American history and fitness education at the junior high school; he's perhaps best known for being the wrestling coach for Jackson's successful high school program. Brennan is a biology teacher at the high school. Fliege is the band teacher at the high school, junior high school and middle school and the track coach at the junior high. And Deken teaches sixth-grade math at Immaculate Conception School. She was the winner in the private school category.

Congratulations to each of these teachers for the recognition. And thank you.