By Brenna Eller
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ad Astra Radio is proud to announce Kerry Foster, Union Valley Elementary School Adaptive Learning teacher as the most recent recipient of the Classroom Hero Award presented by Heartland Credit Union.
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, The Foto Cowboy and Pizza Ranch.
Mrs. Foster has taught for a total of eight years. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology and a master’s in special education. She learned a lot through experience as well.
Her teaching career began as a Paraprofessional at Morgan Elementary School and then she transferred to Faris Elementary School.
“Faris was my very first Special Education teaching job,” Mrs. Foster said.
This school year will be the second year with Union Valley for Mrs. Foster in the Adaptive Classroom.
When asked what her favorite part about teaching is, Mrs. Foster said, “Being with the kids; watching them grow and seeing the success and the progress that they make.”
Mrs. Foster shared that there have been many people in her life who have been inspirations to her, and she has been given encouragement from many coworkers since she started teaching.
“One of my very first principals that I worked with as a new teacher,” she added. “Just a lot of people that helped guide me and teach me things and give me the tools of trade, allowing me to learn and grow on my own.”
Mrs. Foster is originally from Hutchinson and went to school at Graber Elementary.
In an anonymous nomination submitted to Ad Astra, Mrs. Foster was described as being a teacher who demonstrates exceptional dedication, compassion, and expertise that profoundly affects both students and colleagues.
“Kerry goes above and beyond to tailor instruction to meet the diverse needs of her students, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment,” the nominator added.
An example shared by the nominator about Mrs. Foster giving students real life experiences and being supportive was that she had an All School recognition of her students going to the Special Olympics last year. According to the nominator, Mrs. Foster had the entire school line the hallways and loading area outside of the school to cheer and celebrate the students’ accomplishments.
Another example that was given was that she is teaming up with Ad Astra Virtual Academy, taking students to Reins of Hope.
“This not only benefits the needs of the younger students but the needs of the Ad Astra students that often have social and emotional needs,” the nominator said. “Kerry is a mentor to peers, sharing valuable insights and fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Her commitment extends to mentoring fellow special education teachers, training dedicated support para staff and advocating for resources that benefit the entire special education program. Kerry embodies the spirit of excellence in education and is a true asset to Union Valley and the Buhler School District.”
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.
