For over a decade, a dedicated teacher at Cornerstone Elementary has passionately supported students in special education. In recognition of this unwavering commitment, Leslie Maddox been selected as Teacher of the Year for the 2023-2024 school year. “Each building in the district chooses a teacher of the year for a total of seven exemplary teachers,” explained Excelsior Springs School District (ESSD) Assistant Superintendent Dr. Melissa Miller. “Of those seven, district principals get together to tell the other buildings about their teacher of the year. Principals then select who they believe should be the overall district teacher of the year based on these positive comments and recommendations, but principals are not allowed to vote for the teacher from their own building.” After committing 11 years to nurturing the students at Cornerstone Elementary, Maddox was given the prestigious award. This recognition was bestowed...