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Little Miami's Project Excellence teachers strive to challenge their students while creating a fun environment that stimulates learning.

"As a facilitator in the educational process, I hope to be a positive influence in developing well-rounded, productive citizens for the future," said the districts's "Innovative" teacher of the year, Kevin Rose, a junior high math teacher. "Students seek out educators that are honest, firm but fair and are dedicated to ensuring success by looking out for their interests."

Karen Osborne, a fourth-grade teacher at Harlan-Butlerville Elementary, takes a similar approach to teaching.

"I get to know my students personally and take an interest in each and every one of them," said Osborne, named the district's "Excellent" teacher. "I go in to every new year letting students know they will all achieve and laugh a lot in my class — I want students to remember their fourth grade year with fond memories of me and what they learned.

Both teachers know that they are entrusted with some of the country's greatest resources.

"Not only should educators hold themselves and their students to a high degree of academics, but also they should consider the individual needs of students through care, concern and connection — this is what captures a student's interest and results in a deeper desire to learn," Rose said. "Student learning then travels two basic avenues: students will learn by doing, and students will learn through social interactions with others."

Their attitudes are seen by their colleagues on a daily basis.

"These exceptional teachers are honored for demonstrating consistency and high commitment, raising the bar for all students, continuing to improve personally and professionally and influencing other teachers by modeling the way," said Superintendent Dan Bennett. "These teachers are genuine, authentic and sincere. They are caring and thoughtful teachers, who extend themselves to make a positive difference in the lives of Little Miami children."

Osborne has spent six of her seven years teaching in Little Miami after graduating from Miami University. She has also earned a master's degree in administration from the University of Cincinnati. Rose has bachelor's (elementary education) and master's degrees (educational leadership) from Wright State University. He has been teaching in the district for his entire 18-year career.

Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4507 or rycook@coxohio.com.

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