The St. Joseph School District celebrated its teachers and staff Thursday evening during its annual awards banquet at Missouri Western.

Former St. Joseph School District Superintendent Gerald Troester gave the tribute for the evening. Dr. Troester was superintendent from 1969 to 1987.

Teacher of the Year went to Lafayette Guided Program Studies teacher Tina Shaginaw.  Other nominees from that category included  Carden Park 5th grade teacher, Letitia “Tish” Thomas and Benton Music teacher Amber Welter.

Support Person of the Year went to Bode Middle School Administrative Assistance Linda Peters.  Other nominees included: Barbara Brock, Lindbergh, Engineer; Beronica Carrigan, Carden Park, Administrative Assistant.

Maria Ramirez Braiz with Parents as Teachers at the Kealtey Center won the award for Innovator of the Year. The St. Joseph School District said her innovation was to create a Latin Night, which focused on creating an environment where Spanish-speaking families and English-speaking families could learn from each other. The district said she understands that many immigrant families face challenges in being their children’s first teachers. She received an Apple Seed Grant this year for this project.  Other nominees in the category included: Jean West, McKinney-Vento Homeless Social Worker and Trauma Consultant; Todd Shalz, Oak Grove and Hosea Instruction Coach.

Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Crystel Wilkinson with Mark Twain elementary.

In addition, the District honored 42 retirees and six employees who have 30 and 35 years of service.

30 years:
Diana Kretzinger, Carden Park
John Taylor, Maintenance
Carol Conard, Central
Donna Griggs, Hillyard
Renee Burress, Parkway

35 years:
Chester Banks, Maintenance
Betty Graham, Webster

There were also several scholarships presented by Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica.

(All photos by Stephanie Lux/SJSD)