Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt, Missouri Officials Recognize Missouri's Teacher of the Year
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt, Sen. Luann Ridgeway and Rep. Doug Ervin today recognized Smithville High School teacher Darryl Johnson as Missouri's 2006-2007 Teacher of the Year.
"It is a privilege for me to recognize Darryl Johnson for setting a high standard of excellence for education in Missouri," Gov. Blunt said. "Education is my highest priority, and we cannot provide the children of Missouri with the world class education they deserve without the dedication of good teachers like Mr. Johnson."
"Darryl is a real inspiration to his students and a testament to the high caliber of teachers we have in Clay County and in all Missouri. We are very proud of him and the example he sets," Sen. Ridgeway said.
"I want to thank Darryl Johnson for his commitment to education and congratulate him on receiving this great honor," Rep. Ervin said. "He is a superb example of the outstanding teachers in the 35th District and throughout Missouri."
Mr. Johnson teaches communication arts at Smithville High School, where he has been named the Smithville Teacher of the Year eight years in a row. He has been a teacher for more than 15 years and has been at Smithville High School since 1995. Mr. Johnson's writings have been published in regional and national publications, including the "English Journal," and his lessons have been designated as best practices.
Blunt is committed to providing Missouri teachers and students the tools they need to succeed. Since taking office the governor has secured nearly a third of a billion dollars in new funding for education. His leadership has allowed for the expansion of Missouri's nationally recognized Parents as Teachers program and increased funding for A+ Schools.
Blunt has also pledged that he will never withhold money approved for Missouri classrooms. He continues to identify ways to enhance Math, Engineering, Technology and Science (METS) learning in our state and hosted the first comprehensive summit to bring stakeholders together to identify solutions to current challenges in METS. In addition, his early childhood initiatives are working to ensure Missouri's youngest students get a head start on lifelong learning.
The Missouri Senate and House today issued resolutions honoring Mr. Johnson's commitment to education.
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