Ferguson-Florissant Selects Teacher of the Year

The has selected its district teacher of the year, and she works in Berkeley Middle School.

, Principal Steve Lawler and other administrators gathered last week to surprise reading teacher RaShawn Johnson with the honor.

“I’m in shock,” Johnson said after receiving the award. “I can’t teach for the rest of the day.”

According to a press release, Johnson has taught in the district for the past six years but worked in education for 13. She’s well known for her classroom techniques of wearing costumes and creating murals and playing games to engage students.

She also motivates her students by challenging them in a number of ways, including entering the , and she won in the adult category this year.

She’s got a long history of being involved in education, too.

“My family has a legacy of educators on my father’s side, so it was fitting that I would follow in their footsteps,” she said.

Her principal said that she deserved the honor and accolade.

“She is obviously a wonderful teacher,” Lawler said. “The thing that is most telling is the positive attitude she shows everyone and especially the kids. She helps them develop self-esteem and confidence. She is both creative and dynamic.”