A teacher at Gladstone High School exemplifies a willingness to go the extra mile for his students and the school community. Dusty Long’s dedication to student success is evident in his wide offerings of course offerings, certifications and clubs. He spends hours after school supporting students, coaching extracurricular clubs like robotics and e-sports, where he intentionally creates space for and mentors students, ensuring every student has an opportunity to engage and thrive.
Congratulations to him and all three Gladstone School District staff members who won Thank a Teacher awards this year. The Thank A Teacher award was conceived about 25 years ago by Dick Baker (an original GHS staff member) when he was serving as a founding member of the Gladstone Education Foundation. The foundation manages the income and assets associated with funding these annual awards.
The concept of the award is that alumni can make a contribution to the fund in the name of Gladstone teachers who had a significant influence on their educational experience. The foundation and Gladstone School District do their best to convey those thanks to the former teacher.
Funding for these awards is also sustained in part by Peggy Baker. A former teacher herself, every September on the occasion of their anniversary, she delivers a check to the foundation in memory of her husband and best friend.
In turn, the district is able to thank a current teacher with a cash award. In keeping with Mr. Baker's philosophy of "just getting things done," there are no rules and no reporting associated with how the award money is spent. Teachers are encouraged to do whatever they find fulfilling. Or, as Mr. Baker would say, "Live a little."
In similar fashion, the Making a Difference Award was created to recognize the outstanding work of three classified employees each year with $250 checks. This endowment is funded by a private donor. Checks for both awards are from the Gladstone Education Foundation.