Our Emerson Excellence in Teaching recipient builds exciting lessons for students

Our Emerson Excellence in Teaching recipient builds exciting lessons for students
Posted on 11/14/2022
Jenn Rich receives the Emerson Excellence in Teaching AwardJenn Rich, an English language arts teacher at Oakville Middle School, has been named Mehlville School District’s Excellence in Teaching Award recipient for the 2022-2023 school year.

“Jenn has a lot of qualities that you look for in a master teacher,” said Mike Salsman, Oakville Middle School principal. “She is able to build relationships with her students and has a way of bringing her lessons to life so students look forward to coming to her class.”
Jenn Emerson helps student
Image: Rich reviews an assignment with a student in class.

Rich spent the first year of her career as a teaching assistant in another district before she was hired in Mehlville School District. This is her 18th year in the district. That experience is reflected in the way she’s able to alter lessons to meet the needs of her students.

“She adjusts lessons and the way she teaches us to fit our personalities and our learning abilities,” said Delanie Gabel, Oakville Middle School eighth-grade student.

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award is given to educators in the St. Louis area each year who are examples of excellence in their field. Each school in Mehlville School District nominates one teacher for the award, then a district representative is selected.
Emerson winner Jenn Rich
Image: Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award recipient Jenn Rich

“I was shocked to be recognized with this award because I observe teachers all of the time and I see the amazing things that other teachers are doing,” said Rich. “It means a lot to be in the district for this long and to be recognized.” 

Receiving the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award qualifies Rich to apply for additional grants.



Learn about previous winners:

- Roger Elementary’s Julia St. Louis receives Excellence in Teaching Award
- Buerkle’s Dan Regan wins Excellence in Teaching Award
- Wohlwend teacher receives excellence award
The Mehlville School District strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment against employees, students or others on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity and other characteristics protected by law. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: contact Adam Smith at 314-467-5006 or [email protected].