September 9, 2014 – Mrs. Denise Ward, a physical education teacher at Kilpatrick Elementary, was recently named as an Arkansas Teacher of the Year Regional Finalists. On Tuesday, September 16, Governor Beebe will recognize the sixteen state finalists during an awards ceremony at the Arkansas State Capitol. As a regional finalist, Mrs. Ward will receive a cash award in the amount of $1000.
In 1986, Mrs. Ward graduated from Southern Arkansas University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. Later, she began teaching P.E. at Kilpatrick and Union Elementary. Mrs. Ward has been teaching for over 18 years.
Mrs. Ward believes that a good teacher not only loves to teach children, but loves every child they teach. “I don’t consider myself as one of the smartest teachers, but feel that what I lack in brains, I make up for in heart,” Mrs. Ward commented. “I love what I do and truly love my students.” Mrs. Ward says her rewards in teaching are not monetary or things that can hang on a wall. Her rewards are found in her students’ smiles, hugs, laughter and that look in their eyes when they have learned something new.
Mrs. Ward’s knowledge of content and her preparation in all sports is excellent. She strives to teach the basic rules and terminology of each P. E. activity along with good sportsmanship and fair play. She is hands-on and involved every minute with all of her students.
