Guidance

• Using Professional Artifacts in Evaluations
• Sample Rubric for Artifacts Missouri Growth Guides and Possible Sources of Evidence

Guidance

• Guidance For Using Surveys In Evaluation
• Student Survey Sample

Student Assessments

Guidance

• Using State Assessments
• Module 3 - Student Growth Materials

Guidance

• Guidelines for Evaluator Training
• Guidelines for Meaningful Feedback

Periodically, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is asked to recommend educators, who meet specific qualifications, for various award programs. In order to respond to requests in a timely manner, the department has established a Talent Pool of distinguished elementary and secondary teachers and principals who serve as potential candidates for recognition programs. These educational leaders are identified through your recommendations.

2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year Finalists

School districts throughout the state submitted nominations for the award, and the finalists were chosen by a selection committee appointed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The finalists were selected from among 34 regional teachers of the year.

The Regional Teacher of the Year program is designed to focus public attention on excellence in teaching and to honor classroom teachers in all regions of Missouri. 

Elevating Missouri teachers is not just about investing in educators; it’s about investing in the future
of Missouri itself. Their dedication shapes our students, strengthens our communities, and drives us
state forward.

Understanding Young Children:  Teachers use their knowledge of child development and their relationships with children and families to understand children as individuals and to plan in response to their unique needs and potentials.

Promoting Child Development and Learning:  Teachers promote children's physical, emotional, linguistic, creative, intellectual, social and cognitive development by organizing the environment in ways that best facilitate the development and learning of young children.