The Meramec Valley R-III School District is proud to announce its 2025-26 Teachers and Support Staff of the Year, recognizing outstanding team members across the district who make a meaningful difference in the lives of students every day.
This year’s honorees represent schools and departments throughout the district, from classrooms and counseling offices to buses, kitchens, and custodial teams. Each individual was selected for their dedication, professionalism, and positive impact on students, families, and colleagues.
Districtwide and Department Honorees
Transportation: Ed Manuel, Bus Driver
Central Office: Sarah Thompson, Curriculum & Instruction Coach
Substitute of the Year: Lauren Blevins, Substitute
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Pacific High School
Jordan Garlik, Special Education Teacher
Kim Emht, Secretary
Riverbend Middle School
Rachel Porter, English Teacher
D’wayne Burkhead, Custodian
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Pacific Intermediate
Joe Elbert, Special Education Teacher
Travis Stahlman, Paraprofessional
Coleman Elementary
Amanda Peirick, Kindergarten Teacher
Cherie Bowman, Lead Custodian
Nike Elementary
Amber Gann, Second Grade Teacher
Shanna Raeker, School Counselor
Robertsville Elementary
Amber Bartel, First Grade Teacher
Michelle Miller, Kitchen Lead
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Zitzman Elementary
Allison Franzen, Music Teacher
McKenna Ounaian, School Nurse
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Doris Hoffman Early Learning Center
Kelly Knehans, Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Anne Cribbin, Physical Therapist (not pictured)
Congratulations to each of these exceptional staff members for their continued dedication to students and the entire MVR-III community!