Blue Valley teacher is master of her craft

Nancy Pence, who teaches social studies at Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, is one of seven Kansas teachers to be honored by Emporia State University as a 2011 Master Teacher.

Established by Emporia State University in 1953, the annual Master Teacher award is presented to teachers who have served the profession long and well and who typify the qualities of earnest and conscientious teachers. Of the 85 teachers honored since 1999, 19 have been from Johnson County public schools. Pence is the 17th Blue Valley teacher to earn the recognition since the award was established in 1953.

Pence has been an educator for 23 years and has been teaching at Blue Valley North since 2001. She received her bachelor’s degree in history from Illinois State University and her master’s in education from Baker University.

“Nancy Pence is a master teacher and leader at Blue Valley North,” said Tonya Merrigan, principal. “She puts the needs of all students first and is constantly working at cultivating student learning whether in the classroom, sponsoring an activity or presenting on behalf of the District Diversity Committee.”

Pence will be honored on March 30 as part of Master Teacher Day in Emporia.

After a luncheon with university officials, she will take part in a panel discussion for education students and community members. Her Master Teacher plaque will be presented at an awards ceremony that night.

“There are so many really great teachers in Blue Valley and to be recognized for this honor is truly special,” Pence said. “I am so fortunate to work with and be mentored by so many excellent teachers here in Blue Valley and at North in particular. Teaching is a lifelong learning experience and I have gained so much in my career from being able to share and work with outstanding educators.”