ESU alum named one of four finalist for 2007 National Teacher of the Year

Josh Anderson, 2007 Kansas Teacher of the Year

Emporia State University is continuing to produce well-prepared teachers for the state of Kansas and the nation. An ESU graduate and language arts teacher at Olathe Northwest High School was named as one of four finalists for the 2007 National Teacher of the Year.

Joshua Anderson, the 2007 Kansas Teacher of the Year, earned a bachelors of science in speech communications and English from ESU in 1997. The announcement for the national honor was made by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO).  The National Teacher of the Year program, sponsored by the ING Foundation, is a project of CCSSO.

Anderson, a speech, debate, and language arts teacher at Olathe Northwest High School, Olathe, was named Kansas Teacher of the Year in mid-November.  He is the fourth Kansas Teacher of the Year in 6 years to be named a finalist for the program.

Anderson was surprised and appreciative of the recognition.  “This honor puts the spotlight on the source of my nomination—the accomplishments of my students which tell a story of dedication and a passion for learning; and the Olathe school district which has provided me with so many opportunities.”

He has been a member of the English Department at Olathe Northwest High School since the building opened in 2003.   He started the debate and forensics program at Olathe Northwest High School and today that program is one of the most successful in the country.  His teams are ranked first in the state and second in the nation.

In a letter of nomination from Anderson’s building principal, Dr. Gwen Potts, Anderson is lauded as a teacher leader.  “Mr. Anderson’s intelligence, willingness to take risks, and global view of the potential that exists within the staff and students at Olathe Northwest High School has enabled him to embrace opportunities that were offered here to nurture the potential that other members of the staff possess.  Josh’s work ethic and capacity to challenge colleagues to better themselves have been a major factor in the development of the culture of success that exists at Olathe Northwest High School.”

Anderson feels that part of his job as a teacher is to introduce the community to his students and his students to the community.  He serves on the Executive Committee of East Kansas District of the National Forensics League and is responsible for working with community leaders and citizens to organize a variety of speech and debate tournaments that bring together students and adults.  He also works with his students to develop presentations for civic groups.  For his students, it is often their first exposure to community organizations dedicated to service and leadership.  This is their opportunity to discover the value of lifelong learning and community development. 

Last Updated July 2, 2007>