HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ad Astra Radio is proud to announce the most recent recipient of the Classroom Hero Award presented by Heartland Credit Union.
Michelle Lowden has been teaching for a total of 26 years. For the past 22 years, Lowden has taught at Morgan Elementary School.
Her first year, Lowden started out teaching fifth grade math for half of the day and sixth grade science the other half, but when she was offered the opportunity to teach third graders, she jumped at the chance and has never looked back.
“This is the perfect age,” Lowden said, looking around her room of third graders.
At third grade, Lowden explained the kids are independent, but still treat her like they love her.
“I still get plenty of hugs,” Lowden said.
This year is special for Lowden, because she currently has her granddaughter in her class.
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.
In a nomination for Lowden, a community member said when kids leave Lowden’s classroom at the end of the year, they can guarantee the kids have been set up for success from having Lowden as a teacher. They also commented that she is an amazing teacher, dedicated to her students and to the school, serving as teacher liaison for the PTO of the school.
What Lowden likes most about teaching is making connections with the kids and building relationships with them.
Lowden shared some advice for teachers who are just starting out or might need encouragement.
“Enjoy the little moments and appreciate when the lightbulb comes on for them [the students],” Lowden said. “And look for the positive every day.”
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.
Photo Caption: Ad Astra Radio representatives Aaron Napier, Brenna Eller and Jessica Shank present Michelle Lowden of Morgan Elementary School with gifts and a certificate for being this month's Classroom Hero recipient on Nov. 20. (Photo by the Foto Cowboy)