Danekas named Arkansas Tech-Ozark Teacher of the Year
OZARK — Corey Danekas of Booneville was named the Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus Teacher of the Year during the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce Teacher Appreciation Breakfast on Aug. 14.
The event, which was held at the Gardner Memorial Life Center in Ozark, is hosted by the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce.
Speakers included Ozark Chamber President Royce Gattis, Ozark School District Superintendent Jim Ford, Toby Hogan of Shelter Insurance and Mike Todd of XTO Energy.
Robin E. Bowen, president of Arkansas Tech University, gave the keynote address. Bowen expressed her excitement for the upcoming school year and praised the teachers for their dedication and the difference they make in the lives of their students.
“You all are role models day in and day out for your students,” she said.
Arkansas Tech-Ozark Chancellor Bruce Sikes presented Danekas with the Arkansas Tech-Ozark Teacher of the Year award. Danekas is the program chair for the school’s welding technology program.
“Corey Danekas brings a strong work ethic, expertise and communication to his students on a daily basis,” Sikes said. “He is recognized by the industry and deserving of this honor.”
The following educators, selected by their fellow instructors as Teachers of the Year, also received awards at the event: Don Harter, Cass Job Corps; Donna Hillard, Ozark High School; John Suit, Ozark High School; Jessica Culver, Ozark Junior High School; Shannon Chrisman, Ozark Middle School; Regina Pryor, Ozark Upper Elementary School; JoAnn Vest, Ozark Primary Elementary School; and Linda Smith, Ozark Kindergarten Center.
Cass Job Corps Director Cindy Kopack presented the Cass Job Corps Teacher of the Year award, and Ozark School District awards were presented by Superintendent Jim Ford.