An educator within the Excelsior Springs School District (ESSD) has been nominated for recognition as a top teacher, highlighting a career shaped by early inspiration and dedication to students.Paige Colgan teaches second grade at Cornerstone Elementary and is among the top three nominees for Best Teacher in the Town and Country Leader’s Annual Local Legends Contest.The contest is hosted each year by the newspaper to recognize individuals and businesses making an impact in the community. During the first round, community members submit write-in nominations across multiple categories. The top three individuals or businesses in each category advance to a second round of voting, where community members select from the finalists. Each category winner is presented with a certificate recognizing their contributions to the community.Colgan said her desire to become a teacher began at a young age and was shaped by family influence long before she ente...