Kansas Next Step recognizes ‘Stars’ from Hays schools

Kansas Next Step

The Board of Directors of Kansas Next Step Inc. recognized four individuals in May as their Star Students, Teacher and Support Team Member of the Month.

Jim Balthazor, Colby Dreiling and Gracyn Miller of TMP-Marian Jr.-Sr. High School

The Star K-8 Student of the Month was Colby Dreiling, a seventh grade student at Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior-Senior High School. Colby was recognized for his volunteerism, his excellent work in and out of the classroom, and his leadership.

The Star High School Student of the Month was Gracyn Miller, a junior at Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior-Senior High School. Gracyn has been involved in numerous activities including Key Club, Future Business Leaders of America, Student Council, FFA, Spanish Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and athletics. Gracyn was also recognized for being compassionate and principled, and for her positive outlook on life.

The Star Teacher of the Month was Jim Balthazor, a science teacher at Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior-Senior High School. In their nomination of Mr. Balthazor, the TMP-Marian Leadership Team stated, “His talents and creativity are evident in the ways he can draw from students their gifts and stand back to celebrate youth achievements. His work with hands-on science activities, art classes and music performance are attributes at TMP.”

Outside the classroom, Mr. Balthazor is involved in several ministries at his parish, St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell. He also volunteers his time with the American Red Cross and with several support initiatives to aid grieving parents and children in western Kansas.
The Support Team Member of the Month award was presented to Terri Tramel, Administrative Assistant at O’Laughlin Elementary School. Among the qualities for which Ms. Tramel was recognized were her patience, kindness, love for students, and school spirit.

The four honorees each received a monetary prize along with a certificate of recognition.
Kansas Next Step is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting and facilitating the exploration of unique and exciting educational opportunities for motivated learners.