On March 7, Spanish teacher Nancy Perry was presented USD 232’s Secondary Teacher of the Year award by District Superintendent Dr. Doug Sumner and De Soto High School Principal David Morford.

“I was working with Seminar students and I looked up and in walked Dr. Sumner, Mr. Cater and Mr. Morford…I thought…”uh-oh”. Mr. Morford announced it and I was really stunned … I think I was shaking,” Perry said.

Even though she was shocked to hear the news, there is no doubt that Perry deserves the award.

“Mrs. Perry is a tireless worker who always goes above and beyond to allow her students to excel, and for DHS to be a better place. She has been an integral part of the success that DHS has earned over the years and it is nice to see her honored for her service. We wish her the best of luck in the KTOY [Kansas Teacher of the Year] regional competition,” Morford said.

Her students also believe that she is very deserving of the award.

“She is really good about making sure that students do their work and pay attention in class. She also works hard at what she does. I’ve had her all four years and she’s been really great,” said senior Spanish student Kasey Dunlap.

Just like her students, Perry is very glad that she works at DHS.

“I am so fortunate to work at a great school with fabulous staff and students and in a super district,” Perry said.

Perry will go on to represent the district in the 2013 Kansas Teacher of the Year competition. Finalists for this competition will be announced in September of 2012.