McDonald County Schools is recognizing White Rock Elementary Early Childhood teacher Cassie Ball as the district’s September Teacher of the Month for her exceptional dedication to students, families and her school community.
Ball’s commitment to her students began well before the start of the school year. She was working in the building before her teacher contract officially began, recruiting and screening students for the school’s Pre-K program. She contacted parents, scheduled appointments, administered the DIAL assessment and worked with families to help ensure students were enrolled and ready to begin their school experience.
“Keeping in mind staff that teachers should be nominated for going above and beyond, I immediately thought of Cassie Ball this month,” said White Rock Elementary Principal Beth Holland.
Holland said Ball’s dedication extends far beyond her classroom. She serves on the school’s PTO and several school committees, regularly stays late for meetings and events, and is always willing to offer ideas and solutions to help improve the school.
“She is one of those teachers you wish you could carbon copy a 100 times,” Holland said. “She teaches well, always does the right thing, and always offers to serve our school and students in any way she can.”
Ball’s Teacher of the Month recognition also provided an opportunity to celebrate an honor she received several years ago. She was named Teacher of the Year in 2020, but the recognition ceremony was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
District leaders recently surprised Ball in her classroom with flowers, a framed Teacher of the Month award, and a gift card to celebrate her dedication and hard work.
McDonald County Schools congratulates Cassie Ball on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for the countless ways she continues to make a difference for students, families, and the White Rock Elementary community.