Blair Teachers: Making a Real Difference in Our Kids’ Lives

BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2024 November 18, Monday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
blairtoday@mail.com – Facebook

Recent community discussions have focused on concerns about bullying in Blair Community Schools, including the resignation of school board member Tim Welch over the issue. While these concerns deserve attention, a deeper look at our schools reveals a more complete picture – one where dedicated educators are making profound positive impacts on students’ lives every day.

Our local educators’ impact is clearly demonstrated in our survey asking parents and students about teachers making a difference in Blair schools. The responses paint a portrait of exceptional educators at every level.

At Blair High School, Mrs. Morgan Casper, who teaches Ag Classes and serves as FFA Advisor, exemplifies the kind of teacher that makes Blair special. “Mrs. Casper takes the time to reach out to the individual student and get to know them,” one parent wrote. “She has been such a blessing in encouraging our son to try new things and think out of the box. He has gone from a child that softly mumbled his name to a teenager that is volunteering for speeches!” The parent added that “She cares enough to pull the students aside and correct them when she sees them representing themselves or the school in a disrespectful way by explaining how it is being perceived by others. She pushes them all to be their best version of themselves and to participate in the community.”

Mr. Fonda, the BHS band director, was recognized for being “so good at pushing his students to develop new skills and get out of their comfort zones.” Mrs. Grote (former Mrs. Ray) in the math department was commended because “She explains things well and doesn’t make a student feel dumb for asking questions or needing help.”

At Otte Middle School, Mrs. Julie Miller received praise for her work in 6th-grade mathematics, with one parent expressing eternal gratitude for how she “not only helped our struggling son, she supported us as parents to help him with math at home too.” Mr. Scott Flynn, a science teacher, was commended for how he “always brings a positive energy into the classroom” and was described as the “kindest teacher I’ve ever had.”

Mrs. Nicole Cloudt, who teaches 6th grade science, earned recognition because “She really cares about her students and works hard to make sure they are successful!” Ms. Everitt, another science teacher, “goes above and beyond to make her students feel comfortable and supported. She makes learning fun.”

The elementary schools show similar dedication. At Arbor Park Elementary, Mrs. Krueger, a kindergarten teacher, was celebrated because “she is the most patient and empathetic teacher. But she can also be stern when she needs to be. She takes her time learning how each student learns to be able to teach them. She always has a smile on her face and seems to really love what she does. She’s one of a kind.” Mrs. Jessica Dunning was praised for being “caring, compassionate, making a difference in the lives of the students she is teaching” and another parent noted she “is an amazing person. Compassionate, understanding, brave, and trustworthy.” Mrs. Julia Warner “takes the time to help all her students and treats them like her own kids!”

At South Elementary, Miss Barb Vitek was recognized because she “has been nothing but patient with my observant and tentative 3-year-old. She has let our student warm up to preschool in her own way while simultaneously providing structure and love. She has made preschool a loving and welcoming place our child wants to go to everyday. Not only that, she’s learning so much!”

“Always a smile on their faces, encouraging that their best is enough, & so great with communication. We are so lucky to have had both of them!” (Mrs. Warner & Mrs. Krueger at Arbor Park Elementary)

At Deerfield Elementary, Mrs. Becky Williams earned praise because she “goes above and beyond for her students. She makes every day fun and keeps the kids engaged. She always tries to do what’s best for her students. My daughter absolutely adores her and talks about her all the time. We are so thankful for how she makes school such a fun and engaging experience!”

These recent tributes reflect what Blair students have been saying for years. In fact, Blair Community Schools maintains a strong 4.09 out of 5 rating from students and alumni, with 94% rating their experience as “Very Good” or “Excellent.” As one alum put it, Blair is “The kind of community/school district that I want my own children to be raised in.” Another noted that “The teachers there serve the students better than any other school I know of. All of which are always supportive of the students and pushing them to reach for their best.”

It’s worth noting that at the most recent school board meeting, where Dr. Gilson presented new anti-bullying programs, not a single parent came forward with bullying concerns during the public comment period. While social media discussions have highlighted some challenges – which Dr. Gilson is actively addressing – the day-to-day reality in Blair classrooms is clearly one of dedicated teachers making a positive difference in students’ lives.

As our school district continues to improve under Dr. Gilson’s leadership, these caring teachers provide the foundation that makes Blair schools special. While every concern about student safety deserves attention, the evidence suggests that the vast majority of Blair students benefit from educators who go above and beyond to create positive, nurturing learning environments.

As one student reviewer summed it up: “Everyone tries to do their best and the teachers want the best for their students.”