Exceptional Educator recognized for her dedication to colleagues and students
Posted on 01/29/2024
Kaitlin Haarmann, a reading interventionist at Bierbaum Elementary School, received the Exceptional Educator Award from the Affton-Lemay Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes teachers from schools in the 63125 ZIP code for professional excellence in the classroom and their dedication to students.
Image: Haarmann works with a small group of students on pronunciation of words ending in -ed like looked, jumped or shouted.
“Kaitlin always brings colleagues together to share knowledge, innovate and create a supportive environment that benefits everyone,” said Dr. Paul Morris, Bierbaum Elementary principal. “She has enriched the lives of her students through her empathy, kindness and patience.”
Haarmann was among ten teachers from the area to receive the award on January 27 at the chamber’s 2023 Annual Awards and Dinner Auction Gala.
Image: Haarmann with Dr. Jeff Haug, Mehlville School District superintendent, and Dr. Paul Morris, Bierbaum Elementary principal
“This achievement is not mine alone but a reflection of the colleagues, administrators, and school community that surround me,” said Haarmann. “I am inspired every day by my students' endless enthusiasm and curiosity.”
Haarmann is a second-generation recipient of the Exceptional Educator Award. Her mom received the award while working as a teacher.
Image: Haarmann poses with her mom who is a past recipient of the Exceptional Educator Award.
"Teaching is a profession that requires constant collaboration, unwavering support, and continuous learning,” said Haarmann. “I am blessed that my mom is all of these things. Her wisdom and guidance have shaped my approach as a teacher. This award is made more special knowing that my mom and I have both been recognized for our shared dedication to our students.”
Bierbaum Elementary receives beautification award
At the same ceremony, Bierbaum Elementary School was presented with the Beautification Award for the new front entrance created using funds from Prop S.
Image: The completed front entrance at Bierbaum Elementary School funded by our community through Prop S.
In the previous configuration, visitors immediately had access to the entire building after they were buzzed in through the exterior doors. Crews demolished the old entrance, created a new entrance and added additional layers of protection for students and staff. Once buzzed into the building, visitors now enter a security vestibule that funnels them into the office to have their identification checked by office staff before they gain access to the rest of the building.
In addition to renovating the main office, the work also included an updated nurse’s office and teacher workroom.
All schools in Mehlville School District are receiving new security entrances through Prop S. Thank you to our community for helping to make our schools safer for students and staff. Visit the Prop S section of our website to view completed Prop S projects and estimated completion dates for ongoing and upcoming work!