Boardman grad earns teaching award in Kansas

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ASHLEY CLARK

Boardman graduate Ashley Clark, a fifth-grade teacher at Sunflower Elementary at Paola, Kan., was informed during a school assembly Jan. 11 that she was selected to receive the 2013 Horizon award.

Dr. Diane DeBacker, Kansas commissioner of education, made the announcement regarding the award, which is given to first-year teachers who perform in a way that distinguishes them as outstanding.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, identifies and recognizes representatives of excellent teaching in elementary and secondary classrooms of the state.

“I was very blessed to have the opportunity to have my first year of teaching in a phenomenal school district and at Sunflower Elementary,” said Clark. “Mrs. Wokutch, the fifth-grade teachers, and the rest of the Sunflower staff are an inspiring group of people to work with each day. In my first year, I had very supportive parents and a group of kids that made coming to work a joy. I credit my success in my first year of teaching not only to my dedication but also the support of my students, parents and peers.”

Clark resides in Overland Park, Kan. She is a graduate of Boardman High School and St. Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Ind. She is the daughter of Ted and Kathy Clark, of Boardman.