Karen Karsten, Special School District (SSD) teacher and reading specialist at Rogers Middle School, has been named Affton School District’s 2023-24 Teacher of the Year.
“It is always rewarding to be celebrated by our colleagues, and for our contributions to the profession to be recognized,” said Dr. Travis Bracht, superintendent. “I am inspired by Karen’s ability to connect with her students while adapting to their individual needs to find success. I am confident that she will represent the best of Affton.”
Karsten has served 25 years in education, and has been teaching in Affton for four years. On her Teacher of the Year nomination, a colleague states, “Karen has great school pride and pride for teaching. She pumps the kids up when there is an athletic event and encourages them day to day. She even attends activities to support her individual students. Karen cares deeply about her students and works hard to make sure they are making progress.”
“I believe that all children can learn. Reading is the foundation of everything. However, teaching is not only about academics. Students’ socioemotional health is of equal importance to me,” explained Karsten. “The thing I am most proud of is the cohesive classroom community we have built. It is important for my classroom community to be a safe place where students can take academic risks and feel safe trying to decode words and read new material. I believe that teachers guide students along a journey of discovery where each individual is valuable and capable. I feel honored to be able to support my students in becoming productive citizens and future leaders.”
Each Affton school also named a Teacher of the Year for their building. They include Nikki Kirksey for Mesnier Primary; Elizabeth Trudell at Gotsch Intermediate; Karsten at Rogers Middle; and Caitlynn Ward at Affton High School.
Nikki Kirksey, the Mesnier Primary School Teacher of the Year, is a kindergarten teacher and has been in the Affton School District for four years.
Elizabeth Trudell, the Gotsch Intermediate School Teacher of the Year, is a fourth grade teacher and has been in the Affton School District for six years.
Caitlynn Ward, the Affton High School Teacher of the Year, is an English language arts teacher and has been in the Affton School District for five years.