Christman, Clausen recognized as Teachers of the Year

First grade teacher, Cindy Christman, of Malta Elementary School and Shyla Clausen, English teacher at Malta Middle School were recently honored as local recipients of the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizen Education Teacher of the Year. Both were nominated by the local VFW Auxiliary. They were notified of their having been selected on February 16 and have since been the District 5 VFW choice to compete at State level as well.

The Smart/Maher recognizes teachers who care about America. Teachers are nominated that stimulate interest in America's history, traditions, Americanism, civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism. The program was founded in 1899. Both of the local selections have been active in their educating and promoting awareness and recognition of the value of our veterans. Mrs. Christman and Mrs. Clausen are both active in fostering patriotism in students and both enjoy the interest the student take in the various projects.

A documentation of 350 words was submitted, along with a resume, letters of recommendation from someone who is aware of their activities and involvement in patriotic projects. The teachers could also provide up to 5 pages of documentation of their projects, honors, and activities that supported their nomination based on the criteria set forth.

Mrs. Christman has been teaching for 36 years, having taught in Eureka, Helena Valley, Belfry and Loring Colony before joining the Malta staff in 1991. She has taught grades K-8.

Mrs. Clausen has been teaching since 1998 and been involved in some aspect of education in Whitewater and Malta Middle School.

In his letter of support for Mrs. Clausen, Middle School Principal Shawn Bleth stated "Shyla has worked tirelessly both in our school and community to promote education, citizenship and healthy activities for our youth. In our school she continually stresses the importance of service to a cause greater than oneself". In his letter of support, Superintendent Kris Kuehn expressed "Mrs. Clausen is as selfless, determined and organized as any professional educator I have ever been around. Shyla is an educator every moment of her life".

Tad Schye, Elementary Principal stated of Mrs. Christman, "Students are taught about our Veterans and their sacrifices to our country by Mrs. Christman. She has impacted numerous children, Veterans, servicemen and our learning community with her Patriotism". Co-worker Heidi Lulloff shared that "her students make cards for Veteran's every year at Christmastime to be sure that the students never forget to appreciate the freedom that our country has given to each of them."

In addition to the support of those staff members, it was also said of Mrs. Clausen "she works very hard and always keeps her students' wellbeing as one of her top priorities...her teaching is innovative and progressive".

Mrs. Christman was also supported with affirmation of the belief that she has guided students with a helping hand, a firm foundation and the knowledge that this great country of ours is in their hands, as is their future.

Members of the local Buster Deo Post 4067, Commander Mickey Mecklenberg and members Ret. Col. Donald Klinko and Ernie Becker and Auxiliary president Cheryl Wallace and Kari Hould presented the awards last Monday. They were each presented with a certificate and a check for their efforts. District 5 also provides a cash recognition and certificate which will be coming soon.

The state level competition will be complete in March and notice will be provided if either are selected as a State winner. Several years ago history teacher, Delmar Henry was selected locally and was also the winner at District level.