The Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame in Dodge City announced that applications are now being accepted for the Class of 2021. The deadline for submissions is Feb. 15, 2021. The Class of 2021 will be announced in early April and inducted into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame in Dodge City on June 5, 2021.

In 1977, the first state Teachers Hall of Fame in the United States was established in Dodge City. Since its inception, approximately 428 exemplary educators and 11 friends of education have been inducted into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame. Each year nominations are accepted from each of the 12 districts of Kansas. The state selection committee meets in March to review the candidates.

The inductees must meet the highest of standards. The teacher must 1) show evidence of outstanding teaching and/or administration; 2) show evidence of positive interaction with students and parents; 3) possess qualities that set him/her apart from other educators; 4) demonstrate continued pursuit of educational opportunities throughout career; 5) share ideas by conducting workshops, classes, etc. for parents, teachers and/or administrators; 6) demonstrate involvement in community activities; 7) exhibit educational recognition and awards; 8) submit a 200 word or less describing his/her teaching philosophy and educational goals. Additionally, nominees must have been a certified K-12 teacher or administrator for at least 25 years in Kansas.

For further information contact Harvey Davidson, District 8 Director, at 2716 Thunderbird Drive, Hays, KS 67601, call 785-628-8951, or email him at mariharv@ruraltel.net. District 8 includes the counties of Barton, Edwards, Ellis, Ness, Osborn, Pawnee, Phillips, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Smith and Stafford.