The Harrisburg School District and an area business have teamed up to recognize the Harrisburg School District "Teacher of the Year." This year's selection committee is made up of Sanford Health representatives. The award recipient is selected by this committee from a pool of nominees. Harrisburg School District staff are encouraged to nominate a teacher who has taught in the district for at least three years. The nomination focuses on the nominee's overall impact on their school and students.
Harrisburg School District is proud to announce Mrs. Kristen Tupps as the 2023 Harrisburg Teacher of the Year. Kristen was nominated by a colleague who noted, "Mrs. Tupps makes learning fun. She goes out of her way to make sure her students are engaged through fun games, activities and visual aids. Her classroom always has an energetic buzz which is no easy feat in conceptual Algebra 1 and Advanced Pre-Calculus classes. Mrs. Tupps is always coming up with new ideas to make sure every learner makes necessary connections and stays engaged in her lessons. Her positive attitude and energy are infectious. A perfect example of this: she will rap the quadratic formula and will get the students to beatbox and rap it with her!"
Her career as an educator has spanned 17 years, and she has worked at HHS for eight of those years. Mrs. Tupps says, “I love that I get to wake up each day and interact with the most amazing students around. I love the content that I get to teach, and I love that I get to ignite a passion for math in the hearts of each learner that walks through my door. Each school year takes on a different tone, as the learners in the room each bring something special to what we are doing here. As I look back through my time teaching, I am overwhelmed by the many memories and can honestly say I wouldn’t trade this career for any other.”
When asked what she loves about HSD, she said, “The Harrisburg School District holds a special place in my heart, as it not only is my place of employment, but also the district that my family is growing up in. My boys have received an excellent education here. They have met amazing friends, and continue to develop through the life lessons they are learning. As a professional, I have been stretched and inspired in my teaching. There is no threat of complacency in this district as we are always changing, growing, and improving how we meet the needs of each learner. Our leadership is truly motivated to meet the needs of all learners, and they encourage us in our efforts to do the same. I have also met lifelong friends here and am grateful for the wonderful support system I have in the other educators here.”
Kristen and her husband Cody have three sons in the District: Gracen (12th), Jackson (10th), and Bryson (8th). On behalf of the District and Nominating Committee, we congratulate Mrs. Tupps for receiving this well-deserved honor!