Johnston Science Teacher Receives My Favorite Teacher Award From Barnes & Noble

A Johnston High School teacher continues to rake in the accolades.

Chris Beguhn, a JHS science teacher and student council sponsor, was honored with the My Favorite Teacher Award Saturday.

The award, presented by Barnes & Noble, honors local teachers for their commitment to students and learning.

In December, Beguhn received a Golden Apple award from WHO-TV and Allied Insurance. In October 2009, Beguhn received a district R.O.S.E. Award.

Senior Scott Syroka nominated Beguhn for the Barnes & Noble honor.

"I nominated her because I worked with her every year since I started high school," Syroka, student body president said. "I've been able to see from a different perspective interacting on the student council side. I see all the dedication and hard work she shows on the student council side in addition to the academic side."

Syroka, who hasn't has any classes with Beguhn said the award is a great way to recognize all that she's done for students.

"The balance she's able to strike, while she keeps her day job in the academics and science as first position, she's still able to devote so much time to student council and all the work we do," Syroka said.

This year, Beguhn didn't hesitate to take on an additional role as the coordinator for the Silver Cords Program. Silver Cords is a distinguished volunteer award available to students who earn a minimum 50 hours of community service or volunteering during their sophomore, junior and seniors years of school.

"She agreed to do that pro-bono, while other district have a paid position for that job," he said. "She said volunteering has always been close to her heart and she didn't want to stop that from us."

Syroka submitted an essay highlighting Beguhn's commitment to student success. His entry won the first round of high school entries and will not be passed on to the regional level and possibly the national level for a top prize of $5,000 for both Beguhn and Syroka.