Kristen Price, a teacher at the Northwest R-1 School District’s Early Childhood Center, was one of 34 educators recently named Missouri Regional Teacher of the Year. Price also was the Northwest Teacher of the Year this past school year.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) recently announced the winners of the regional contest following a selection process that began with the nomination of nearly 500 teachers representing 284 school districts statewide.
Grace Green, the Northwest R-1’s assistant superintendent of elementary schools, said Price has unwavering dedication to the success of the district’s youngest learners and deserves the honor.
“Ms. Price brings both a smile and high expectations to her classroom every day,” Green said. “Her positive impact extends far beyond her classroom walls; she actively serves on both building and district committees, ensuring the voices of her colleagues, students and families are represented in a positive and meaningful way. She can also regularly be seen at schoolwide events.”
After graduating from college, Price, who lives in Fenton, began working for the Northwest School District and has been there for 16 years, first as a Title I preschool teacher for 13 years and then as an ADA preschool teacher for the past three years at the Early Childhood Center. She is a graduate of Lindbergh High School, the University of Missouri-St. Louis and the University of Missouri in Columbia.
Price says she is honored to be named a Missouri Regional Teacher of the Year, as the entire experience has been a humbling and special one.
“Teaching is something I’ve poured my heart into for years, and to be recognized for doing something I love, especially in early childhood, is truly rewarding,” she said. “I’m proud to represent Northwest and the incredible educators across the St. Louis and Jefferson County area who are making a difference every day.”
Price said the process for becoming a Missouri Regional Teacher of the Year started with her district-level recognition. After that, she was invited to move forward in the Missouri Teacher of the Year program, which involved submitting an updated resume and writing several reflective essays about her teaching philosophy, leadership, community involvement and impact in the classroom.
“I see this as a chance to represent my district and help others see how powerful early childhood education can be,” she said. “I’ll continue to advocate for our youngest learners and shine a light on the incredible things happening in preschool classrooms every day.
“As a Regional Teacher of the Year, I’m honored to be part of a group of passionate educators who represent the heart of Missouri classrooms.”
After DESE received the district nominations, 34 educators across the state were named Regional Teachers of the Year, and they are invited to apply for the Missouri State Teacher of the Year award by submitting additional materials and undergoing a selection process. DESE will announce the semi-finalists for the Missouri Teacher of the Year award in August.
Green said she is excited to celebrate Price’s well-deserved recognition.
“We are incredibly proud to have Ms. Price as part of Lion Nation. She has recently showcased the exceptional work of the Northwest Early Childhood Program on a global stage,” Green said. “Through this work, she has inspired both administrators and educators around the world. Her contributions have centered on writing, evaluating and implementing The Leader in Me within the Early Childhood Program. What truly sets her apart, however, is the love for students and learning that is immediately felt when you walk into her classroom. It is this passion that makes us so proud of who she is, both as a person and as an educator.”
Price said the recognition means a lot to her because it reflects the significance of early childhood education.
“The earliest years are where so much growth happens, and being honored for this work feels like a celebration of everything we do to support and empower our youngest learners. The response from the community, friends, family, colleagues and even former students has been full of warmth and encouragement,” Price said. “Early childhood education is where we build the foundation for lifelong learning, confidence and leadership. I’m passionate about helping even our youngest learners feel seen, heard and capable. If my story helps shine a spotlight on that, then I know I’m doing something right.”
Price said she is grateful for the Northwest community and the experiences she has shared in her years working for the district.
“I’ve grown so much as an educator because of the people I’ve worked with and the families I’ve served,” she said. “Whether or not I move on in the process, I’m proud to represent our district and all the good happening here. Thank you for believing in me and in the power of early learning.”