Five Win Emerson Teaching Awards

Webster University alumni Yulia Kotets, Douglas Talleur, Jon Frank, Amanda Wyatt and Anna Barton were honored among 102 St. Louis-area educators to receive an Emerson Excellence in Teaching award. 

Eric Goedereis, associate professor of psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences, also was among those honored with the award.

Now in its 26th year, the awards pay tribute to area educators – from kindergarten teachers to college professors – for their achievements and dedication to the field of education. On Nov. 20, each honoree received a Tiffany & Co. crystal apple, as they are honored for their vital role in shaping students’ lives.

Award recipients will have the opportunity to apply for a Gold Star Grant from Emerson, to be presented in spring 2016. Honorees from this year and the past five years are eligible to apply for the competitive grants, which are designed to fund educational projects that reflect the pillars of the Emerson brand – technology, innovation and leadership.

  

• Kotets is a English Language teacher at Willow Brook Elementary School in Pattonville School District.
• Talleur is an art teacher at Orchard Farm High School.
• Frank is a Language Arts teacher at Rockwood Summit High School.
• Wyatt teaches fourth grade at Forder Elemntary in Mehlville School District.
• Barton teaches English and literature at Bayless High School.

The Webster University School of Education is a leader in developing and cultivating a world of learners, providing students with the knowledge, experiences and practical tools to guide themselves and others toward life-long learning.

Since 2006, Emerson has awarded $440,000 to area teachers and schools through the Gold Star Grant program. The Excellence in Teaching Awards program began in 1989.