Students and teacher recognized by Kansas Next Step in March

The Board of Directors of Kansas Next Step Inc. recognized three individuals in March as the organization’s Star Students and Teacher of the Month.

The Star K-8 Student of the Month was Reagan Bates, a second grade student at Lincoln Elementary School.

Reagan’s teacher, Marla Wasinger, said Reagan exemplifies “kindness, generosity, and thirst for knowledge.”

Reagan also was praised for always striving to do her best and for exhibiting great responsibility.

The Star High School Student of the Month was Jordyn Manhart, a junior at TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School.

Among the qualities TMP-Marian faculty highlighted in nominating Jordyn were her ambition, leadership, positive attitude and willingness to volunteer. Jordyn has been a participant in band, Key Club, campus ministry and athletics. She has also been recognized on the Bishop’s Honor Roll each semester since starting high school.

The Star Teacher of the Month was Sarah Mackey, a first grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School. In his nomination, Roosevelt Principal Lee Keffer praised Mackey’s love of education and her students.

“Her enthusiasm, her innovativeness, as well as her genuine concern for providing the best education possible for each and every one of her students is exemplary,” Keffer said.

The three honorees each received a monetary prize along with a certificate of recognition.

Kansas Next Step is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting and facilitating the exploration of unique and exciting educational opportunities for motivated learners.