Jerry McClenahan, Fred Huser, representing Paula Huser, Tashia Dieckhoff, Lisa Payne, Marcia Smola, Keith Cole and Emily Walker, representing Rhonda Cole. (L-R) Not pictured: Lois Hammer
Christian Schools
Jerald (Jerry) McClenahan has taught science at the high school level at Berean Academy since 1979, and has dedicated his career to providing a solid scientifi c foundation for his students. Additionally, he serves as the sponsor for Student Council and National Honor Society at Berean.
Mr. McClenahan is a life-long learner who has been involved in education at the secondary, post-secondary and research level during his career, and is also a science instructor at Butler Community College. “Mr. McClenahan is viewed by his students and colleagues as a great encourager and always willing to go the second mile with a student who may be struggling. Most importantly, he serves as a model of a man of faith and integrity for all who know him,” said Terry Tilson, Berean Academy Superintendent.
Mr. McClenahan received a Bachelor of Science degree from Kearney State College in 1977 and a Master of Science degree from Wichita State University in 1990.
Diocese of Dodge City
Lois Hammer is in her 23rd year of teaching second and third grade at St. Joseph Catholic School in Ellinwood. She is a faithful teacher whose classroom environment is one that encourages independent learning and individual responsibility. She has also lovingly prepared 22 second grade classes to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Additionally, Mrs. Hammer has served on numerous community projects and helped establish the Special Olympics in Barton County.
“Mrs. Hammer is truly a devoted teacher. Her students work diligently to complete assignments so as to participate in the unending supply of hands-on learning games or activities available in the classroom,” said Marlene Clayton, Lead Teacher, St. Joseph School. “The children clamor to play these ‘games’ with fellow classmates, all-the-while developing valuable interpersonal and academic skills.”
Mrs. Hammer earned her Bachelor of Science degree in education at Emporia State University in 1971 and her master’s degree from Fort Hays State University in 1976.
Independent Schools
Marcia Smola has taught second grade at The Independent School for 25 years and is recognized for her innovative curriculum, which has even included a pet tarantula in her classroom. She places high expectations on her young students and guides them as their confi dence grows. She has been active in the committee leadership, capital campaigns and planning sessions of the Lower School and served as Co-Interim Head of the Lower School in 2009.
Karen Norton, Head of The Independent School, 1981-2006, said, “Marcia Smola is a dedicated teacher, who has inspired nearly 30 years worth of students to bigger and higher aspirations. She is well known for her compassion and love for her students. She has also contributed to the success of The Independent School, and steppedup to lead and encourage students, family members and teachers when needed.”
Mrs. Smola obtained her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Kansas in 1974.
Lutheran Schools
Tashia Dieckhoff joined Holy Cross in 2007 as a first grade teacher. Prior to becoming a member of the faculty at Holy Cross, Mrs. Dieckhoff gained valuable experience working at several Lutheran schools across Kansas, including Redeemer, Immanuel and Bethany Lutheran. She is a creative and stimulating teacher for young minds and has the natural ability to blend spontaneity while expecting her students to meet the highest of standards. Tashia lives for Christ each day and her classroom reflects this. She also uses technology to uniquely enhance the learning environment for her students.
“Mrs. Dieckhoff is an excellent model of life-long learning for other teachers and our students,” said Amber Fiala, Principal, Holy Cross Lutheran in Wichita. “She has a Christ-centered classroom, is willing to go the extra mile with interactive lessons, and her lessons give the students a small taste of the powerful connection with technology and working with others.”
Mrs. Dieckhoff earned her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education in 1989 from Concordia College in Seward, Nebraska.
Diocese of Salina
Rhonda Cole began teaching at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Salina in 1988 as a 3rd grade teacher. In 1997, she moved to Kindergarten. Recognizing how vulnerable her students were at that young age she wrote, “It is important to me that at the end of the day I end with a positive comment. That way, every child leaves with a good feeling.” She continued to tutor students as long as she was able.
“Rhonda had a way to reach children and their families that left an impression on all who knew her,” said Cindy Compagnone, Assistant Principal, St. Mary’s. “She had a strong faith and portrayed that to her students daily. After she was sick, I watched her teach without complaint, even though she was in pain.”
Mrs. Cole graduated from Marymount College in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology of exceptional children, with a minor in elementary education.
In Memoriam - Rhonda Cole: April 19, 1954 - December 1, 2010.
Paula Huser was a beloved music teacher at Holy Family Grade School in Hays. She came to Holy Family in 1994, and also started the school’s fi rst art program. In 2005, she was named Outstanding Elementary Music Educator for the Northwest KMEA District.
“Paula’s love for her students and Holy Family was profoundly shown when after being away from school for a semester, she wanted to return to work to be with the people she loved, doing what she loved,” explained Jana Simon, Holy Family Principal. “When she realized that her body would not allow her to fulfill her vocation, I had the hardest task of my career, accepting her resignation.”
She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from Fort Hays State University in 1973 and her Master of Music degree in 1980. In 1987, she completed a bachelor’s degree in art – also from Fort Hays State. Mrs. Huser lost her battle with cancer in October 2010.
In Memoriam - Paula Huser: July 13, 1951 - October 4, 2010.
Diocese of Wichita
Lisa Payne serves as both the principal and a sixth grade teacher of Holy Name Catholic School in Coffeyville, which is her alma mater. While she is an exemplary administrator, teaching is her vocation and her true love. Since joining the faculty in 2003, her strong math teaching skills have resulted in Holy Name reaching the state standard of excellence every year.
“Lisa is a wonderful teacher and principal. She is an industrious person, working and teaching over and beyond her duties,” said Father Ben Nguyen, Pastor of Holy Name Church. “Her professionalism in the classroom greatly encourages the children to desire to learn more and be well-educated in all their subjects.”
Mrs. Payne began her teaching career in 1986. She received her BS in education from Pittsburg State University in 1984. She also earned two master’s degrees from Pittsburg, one in special education in 1994 and a second in school leadership in 2007.
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