- West High
- Teacher of the Year
-
Mrs. Lauren Reusch2022-2023 Teacher of the Year
Lauren Reusch, Library Media Specialist, has been selected as the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year by her West High colleagues. Mrs. Reusch’s core beliefs go beyond teaching the curriculum, but helping students reach their potential and learn how to function as successful members of society. While this looks different for all students, helping students with their ability to effectively communicate with others, work collaboratively in groups, and realize their potential to have an impact and make a difference are a few of things she hopes to impart on her students.As a library community, she and fellow librarian, Brian Welch, strive to create a space that is not just about books, but about giving kids a safe space where everyone feels that they belong. Together, they have curated a collection of books that honors all and encourages students to build empathy for those who may be different from them. Through scavenger hunts, social media contests, game playing, and crafting opportunities, she strives to make the library a place that is more than books, but about giving kids a safe space to create, to explore, to learn, and to belong. By opening the door to the library for more than reading and curriculum, she is then able to share with students her passion for books and reading and help build a culture of empathy and critical thinking. She is always looking for ways to engage students (and staff) in learning, community, and fun!
Outside of school, Mrs. Reusch, is the mother of 2 daughters (Harper, 8, and Everly, 5) and spends most of her spare time at basketball practice, gymnastics, and dance watching her kids do what they love! She also enjoys reading, sewing, exercising, watching her nephews play sports, and spending time with her family playing games, doing puzzles, and just hanging out.
Mrs. Reusch has 15 years of teaching experience and has been teaching in public schools in Missouri since 2007. She holds a MA in Library Science and Information Services from the University of Central Missouri, and a B.A. in Education from Drury University.
Previous Years2021-2022 Chris Donaldson 2003-2004 Patti Campbell 2020-2021 Amie Gossett 2002-2003 Donna Ellis 2019-2020 Amy Van Matre-Woodward 2001-2002 Eileen Rodríguez-Kiser 2018-2019 Emanuel Young 2000-2001 Mike Pratte 2017-2018 Kristen Collins 1999-2000 Chinkie Taussig 2016-2017 Debra Klevens 1998-1999 Dale Shepherd 2015-2016 Darla Maynard 1997-1998 Peggy Dersch 2014-2015 Clifford Amen 1996-1997 Tom Conley 2013-2014 Amie Gossett 1995-1996 Erik Hagen 2012-2013 Patrick Mooney 1994-1995 Karla Reichelt 2011-2012 Mary Ann McFarland 1993-1994 Don Ribbing 2010-2011 Colleen O'Toole 1992-1993 Larry Stogesdill 2009-2010 Ruth Knop 1991-1992 Dixie Hoyt 2008-2009 Aaron Hickman 1990-1991 Larry Matthews 2007-2008 Tim Corteville 1989-1990 Lane Page 2006-2007 Susan Dean 1988-1989 Jan Barkley 2005-2006 Steve Baxter 1987-1988 Helen Hume 2004-2005 Linda Jolly 1986-1987 Nancy English