Teacher Cindy Kasper was recently announced as Tallmadge’s 2019-2020 teacher of the year. Kasper has taught at Tallmadge for 10 years and teaches mainly math. Kasper graduated from The University of Akron with a Bachelor and a Masters degree. 

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be teacher of the year! In most professions, you get a promotion or a raise if you work hard and do a good job. Teaching is different. The reward that teachers get is much more meaningful, but few people outside the classroom tend to know that we are doing a good job,” Kasper said. “We not only teach kids academic material, but we get to encourage them and build relationships with them and hopefully make a positive impact on their lives. I’m happy to get the award, but I was so touched by how excited my students were for me. That was the best award.”

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kasper had to finish the 2019-2020 year in remote learning. 

“I tend to like technology, so I think that in that regard I’ve adjusted reasonably well to all the online teaching stuff. But, oh my goodness, I missed seeing my kids faces! I missed seeing the kids’ smiles and smirks and goofy looks. The masks have made it a bit harder to get to know the kids,” Kasper said in regards to remote learning and new mask protocol during in-person learning.

Even with COVID-19, Kasper knows how to make a big impact on her students and keep them positive. 

Kasper said, “I try to be extremely organized, and I try to have a good sense of humor. My students seem to appreciate both of these qualities.” 

The announcement that Kasper had won teacher of the year was made Jan. 20 at a faculty staff meeting.

Principal Michael Householder said, “Mrs. Kasper is a phenomenal teacher that teaches well no matter the class. Kids are always engaged. Through her many instructional activities, kids always learn well.”