Recognizing teachers who love their jobs, students

People talk often about the demands of the teaching profession, demands that grow almost daily, it seems. Educators are expected to do much, do it well and do it with few resources. They fill the role of teacher, counselor, motivational speaker, nurse, parent and more.

They often do so not only without accolades, but with criticism. So when teachers are honored, as the five who received the Educator of the Year award at the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce's Educator Appreciation Reception on Oct. 20, we pause to honor them, as well, for their commitment to what is arguably among the most challenging of professions.

Thirty-five nominees were whittled down to five winners: Pat Fanger, Prodigy Leadership Academy; Gina Herzog, Blanchard Elementary; Libby Wilson, Central Junior High School; Darren Neels, Clippard Elementary; and Brad Deken, Department of Polytechnic Studies at Southeast Missouri State University.

Judging from their comments at the reception, each was wisely chosen; they clearly love their profession and endeavor to serve children. From diving into teaching after becoming a parent to bringing one's own interest to the classroom to imparting a love for reading to sharing technology or wanting to be unlike one's own former teachers, they were all drawn to the education field for different reasons and approach it in different ways.

As the Southeast Missourian's Katie Lamb reported previously, "Honorees received the Crystal Apple Award, a $500 check, resolutions of honor from the Missouri Legislature and a copy of a commemorative video shown during the event." Add to the list the gratitude of a community that recognizes the value of education and recognizes that quality education does not transpire without quality educators. We congratulate the award winners. While we offer our praise, we take note that these teachers do not do what they do to receive applause or gifts. They do it because they care about the children entrusted to them.