Every month, the Reeds Spring School District recognizes one exceptional teacher with an Excellence Award. September’s deserving winner is Mr. John Kessinger. He teaches social studies and runs the RSHS leadership program, known as Cornerstone. Kessinger is also an assistant football coach and the Student Council sponsor.
“He’s made the biggest impact on me that any teacher ever has,” said student Kamryn Duclos. “My freshman year, he said something like, ‘In order to succeed you have to believe you are going to succeed,’ and that hasn’t left my mind since.”
Kessinger has spent 15 years at Reeds Spring Schools. He organizes many events behind the scenes, like school assemblies, movie nights, dances, and the district food pantry.
According to RSHS Principal Dr. Isaac Sooter, “John has always been a teacher I could count on to build upon the positive, enthusiastic and upbeat culture at RSHS. He is always looking for ways to help students and goes above and beyond to meet them where they are. We are lucky to have John work for RSHS.”
Kessinger’s colleagues say students regularly seek him out for advice.
“I constantly hear stories from students about how they were struggling, whether with school work or personal issues and how Mr. Kessinger was always there providing support and guidance,” said teacher Phillip Dougherty.
“Some of those situations could have ended up with the kid in office for a referral, but he handled them professionally and calmly,” said teacher Tim Scego.
The district accepts Excellence Award nominations from students, staff, parents, and community members. You can find the nomination form on the district website.