Kennedy teacher honored for positive influence on students

By Patrick Lynn

A teacher in the Stevens Point Area Public School District has been honored this month with the Mandana Bliss Award.

Kari Worzella, a first-grade teacher at Kennedy Elementary School in Junction City, was nominated by student Sophia Rosas, a fourth-grader at the school.

“Mrs. Worzella is a great teacher who is always very happy and who is kind all of the time,” said Rosas. “She cares so much about us and our learning — she makes sure we can reach our dreams.”

Each month students have the opportunity to recognize a staff member who has “profoundly impacted their educational experience,” according to the district. Worzella was honored at the School Board’s April 8 meeting.

Each month, students and staff can recognize a staff member. The award is given in the name of Mandana Bliss, the first teacher in the district.