Last week schools around the district hosted a Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) Nominee group led by Circle High School teacher, Matt Ingrim. The visit showcased district programs, facilities, and ended with a student panel at CHS with student representatives from the College & Career Ready Program, Student Council, and National Honor Society.
Ingrim, who was named the Circle Publics School Secondary Teacher of the Year for 2020-2021 recently gave us insight into his KTOY experience.
How were you nominated for Kansas Teacher of the Year?
“I was named USD 375’s Secondary Teacher of the year for the 2020-2021 school year. This allowed me to be nominated for the 2023 Kansas Teacher of the Year.”
What experiences have been made possible because of KTOY?
“Through the KTOY program, I was able to attend the Teacher of the Year Leadership Conference and Awards Banquet, held in Wichita, in September of 2022. During the Leadership conference, we were able to engage with many of the current topics surrounding education in the state of Kansas. I was also assigned to a group of other nominees from area school districts. This group of nominees has been traveling around the area, visiting and touring each other’s districts. We are also planning a trip as a group to visit our state legislature in Topeka. Throughout this process, I have been able to meet, and make long-lasting friendships with absolutely terrific educators from this area.”
After spending time at other schools, what stands out to you about USD 375 and CHS?
“Each school district that we visit has some very impressive strengths; made up of great people, great ideas, and great programs–all of which are geared toward doing the very best to provide various opportunities for student success. At each visit, I am reminded of and able to reflect on the great things we are doing here at Circle, and the hard-working, caring faculty and staff that are so committed to helping our students THRIVE.”
What are you excited to share with your fellow KTOY nominees about Circle Public Schools?
“In addition to visiting our great facilities and meeting a cross-section of our faculty and staff, we are going to share our vision and focus in the areas of Work-Based Learning, College & Career Readiness, and Career & Technical Education.”
What would you like to do with your KTOY experience?
“I would like to continue to find ways to be an advocate for students and public education at the state level. I would also like to maintain these connections and friendships I have made throughout this process and even bring some other ideas and perspectives I have observed in their districts here to USD375.”
Thank you, Mr. Ingrim, for all you do for Circle Public Schools and the students of Circle High School!
2020-2021 Circle Public Schools Primary Teacher of the Year, Allison Norris, will host a second group of primary KTOY Nominees in late April. We can’t wait to hear more from Mrs. Norris about her KTOY experience!