Ross Rea, a dedicated fifth-grade teacher at Lewis Elementary School, has been honored as the Best Teacher in the Town and Country Leader’s 2024 Community Excellence Awards.In just his second year of teaching within the Excelsior Springs School District (ESSD), Rea has already made a significant impact on his students and the community. He expressed both excitement and deep gratitude for receiving this prestigious recognition, emphasizing the encouragement it provides in his educational journey.“We are excited to see Mr. Rea recognized as Best Teacher by the Town and Country Leader,” said Lewis Elementary Principal Dr. Jill Comstock. “He is an amazing teacher who does so much for the students in his class and our school. Mr. Rea is very collaborative and regularly demonstrates our motto of cultivat- ing kindness and academic success.”Upon learning of his award, Rea was both surprised and honored.“I was very ex...