Thornton High Coordinator supports student

Outstanding educators go above and beyond everyday and this leaves an impression that is carried over a lifetime. This is why we are so proud of Kelsey Barnes, Advanced Placement Coordinator at Thornton High, for receiving the University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award.

Here is the Press Release for Kelsey Barnes:

Kelsey Barnes Receives University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award

Kelsey Barnes, an educator at Adams 12 Five Star Schools in Thornton, Colorado received the University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award.

An Outstanding Educator shapes young minds in meaningful ways—thoughtfully approaching instruction, sharing an infectious love for learning, and caring for students both inside and outside of the classroom. Each year, newly admitted UChicago students have the opportunity to reflect on their time in school and nominate an educator who played a significant role in their education, made a positive impact in their lives, and whose influence has brought them to where they are today.

The University of Chicago is honored to recognize excellence in teaching and sincerely congratulates this year’s Outstanding Educator Award winners, who are exceptional in their field and role models for all students. The University deeply appreciates the lively minds who thirst for knowledge that these educators have nurtured and inspired. We thank them for going above and beyond the call of duty every day and leaving an impression that will be carried over a lifetime.

All award winners receive a commemorative award, certificate, and letter that includes details from the student they were nominated by. Principals and superintendents of award winners will also receive communications notifying them that their employees have received the award.

Barnes was chosen by her former student Luz Montiel, who shared her appreciation for Barnes' actions:

"I really appreciate how much you helped me all throughout high school and I am so glad I was able to meet you. I don't think I would have been able to get through my high school experience without you guiding me through it all. I will never be able to thank you enough for what you did for my family when my dad was sick. Everything you have taught me will stay with me for the rest of my life because your advice is what allowed me to not break every second from the pressure. I just want to say, Thank You, for being someone I could turn to when I felt that I had no one and made me feel appreciated and good when I felt like I was not getting anywhere."

This story exemplifies our ELEVATE Focus Area: World-Class Staff. Sharing stories about how staff is compensated, supported and trained to foster student success and family partnerships.