Teaching's Great Rewards

By Jordan Lockwood, 2024-2025 BSSD Teacher of the Year and 2024-2025 Kansas City Regional Teacher of the Year
The end of the school year has a rhythm all its own. There is excitement, reflection, and an unmistakable sense of pride that fills the air. In these final days, whether at graduations, award ceremonies, or class parties, you can feel the impact of a year’s worth of work. It is in the students who grew more confident, in the quiet moments of goodbye, and in the joy of watching them take their next steps.
This is what makes teaching so deeply rewarding.
Yes, the job has become more complex and demanding. But the rewards have grown even greater. I still believe teaching is one of the best jobs in America. Few careers offer the same blend of purpose, connection, and joy. Few let you witness so much growth - both in your students and yourself.
As I wrap up my time as the 2024-2025 BSSD Teacher of the Year, I feel nothing but gratitude. This year has been a chance to reflect on what makes our district special and to celebrate the many educators who give their all for students each and every day.
I am proud to pass this honor to Jillian Littlejohn, a teacher who embodies what is best about our profession. She is the kind of educator who makes a lasting difference, one relationship at a time.
To our graduates, thank you for letting us be a part of your journey. And to every educator reading this, know that what you do matters deeply. The world needs more teachers, and I am so grateful to be one of them.