England named Missouri Journalism Teacher of the Year

Overland Park, Kan. (April 28, 2014) – Kim England, the yearbook adviser at Walsworth customer school Lee’s Summit North High School in Lee’s Summit, Mo., was recently named the Missouri Journalism Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA).

England was nominated for the award by Aurora yearbook editor-in-chief Alyson Klint and managing editor Bailey Hamilton. The process also included a recommendation letter from the principal, a written interview and a submission of the school’s publication.

England is in her third year as the adviser at Lee’s Summit North, where she also teaches English. Prior to that, England taught for five years at Archbishop O’Hara High School in Kansas City, Mo., where she was also the yearbook adviser for two years.

England holds bachelor’s degrees in journalism and English from the University of Missouri, and she began her career working at an advertising and public relations firm, then ran her own PR and media relations business.

“When I was 40, I decided I was going to realize my dream and become a teacher,” said England. “I got my teaching certificate and masters degree and have been teaching since.”

As proof of the strength of the yearbook program at Lee’s Summit North, 22 students captured awards at the MIPA state contest and the Aurora won a superior award.

“I am so proud of my yearbook staff winning 22 awards of the 23 entries we submitted,” said England. “I encourage them to set their standards high, and they work so hard.”