By Brenna Eller
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ad Astra Radio is proud to announce the most recent recipient of the Classroom Hero Award presented by Heartland Credit Union.
It was an emotional, but celebratory morning for Diane Mears, 3rd Grade Teacher at Plum Creek Elementary School on Feb. 21, as she was surprised with the Classroom Hero Award during the school assembly.
Each month, Ad Astra Radio honors a different educator, selected from community nominations, to receive the Classroom Hero Award, along with a “hero” gift basket, courtesy of community partners Heartland Credit Union, Midway Motors of Hutchinson, Stutzman’s Greenhouse, Hutch Putt and The Foto Cowboy.
“Mrs. Mears is an amazing teacher who has impacted so many kids in the Buhler district,” her nominator wrote. “She makes learning fun for all of her students and has high standards for her students. She is a true blessing to anyone who has met her!”
Mrs. Mears is in her 39th year of teaching and has taught at both Union Valley Elementary School and Plum Creek Elementary School over the years. She also makes the drive from McPherson every day to teach her students.
After the award presentation to Mrs. Mears, Plum Creek Principal Tammi Graff said, “She has touched many many lives in our school, so this is very exciting; she is very deserving of this award from Ad Astra Radio.”
Her favorite things about teaching are seeing the “lightbulb” moments for her students.
“And just building relationships with the students,” Mears added.
Mrs. Mears loves teaching 3rd graders especially because of the students’ caring nature at their age.
“They still love coming to school, still love giving hugs, cards and notes,” Mears said.
The Classroom Hero Award seeks to highlight the hard work and dedication of those on the front lines of our local schools. Nominations can be submitted at https://www.adastraradio.com/classroom-hero.
Ad Astra Radio has been locally owned and operated since 1986 and is proud to be your hometown radio station.
