DODGE CITY — Great Bend High School math teacher Tina Hiss will be inducted into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame for the class of 2014.
The Class of 2014 will be inducted into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame in Dodge City on Saturday, June 7. Other honorees include: Esther Abbey, Dodge City; Jeannette Broome, Topeka; Ann Davis Johnson City; Karen Glennon, Atchison; Shirle Ibeawuchi, Pratt; Shirley Johannsen, Topeka; Nancy E. Musselman, Silver Lake.
“My selection to the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame represents the thousands of teachers who dedicate their time and talent to educate the children in our Kansas communities,” Hiss said.  “I am honored to be recognized and proud to be a Great Bend High Panther.”
Hiss is a 37-year teaching veteran. She started her career in 1977 at Hoisington High School, coming to Great
Bend in 1979. In addition to high school math, she teaches a dual-credit algebra class with Barton Community College.
Over the years, she has served as the sponsor for numerous student clubs (such as Pep Club, Kayettes and KAYs, and the National Honor Society) and been a member of numerous professional organizations (such as Great Bend NEA, Kansas NEA, National Education Association and National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) .
She is also active in her church and community.
Hiss received her undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas and her post-graduate degree from Fort Hays State University.
In 1977, the first state Teachers’ Hall of Fame was established in Dodge City. Since its inception, more than 386 exemplary educators 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 April to review the candidates and complete the selection process.
According to Dennis Doris, who serves as president of the Hall of Fame’s board of directors, the inductees meet the highest of standards. The teacher must: 1) show evidence of outstanding teaching and/or administration; 2) show evidence of positive interactions 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; and 8) submit a 100-word description of his/her philosophy of education. Additionally, nominees must have been a K-12 or vocational school teacher or administrator for a minimum of 25 years in Kansas.