As the LEAD Center and Teacher Academy continue to expand, so does the commitment to celebrating the outstanding achievements of their students. This year marks the first time the LEAD Center has awarded Student of the Year honors for each of its career programs. In the Teacher Academy, two standout students have been named Co-Scholar Teachers of the Year—a new tradition designed to spotlight the dedication, leadership, and future promise of tomorrow’s educators.
Honoring Future Educators
The first Scholar Teacher of the Year award was presented to Keelyn McCuiston, a Cass Midway High School student who has completed a remarkable 463 hours in Mrs. Harding’s 1st-grade classroom over the past two years. Keelyn’s positivity, dedication, and commitment to her placement and cohort have made her a role model for aspiring teachers.
This award was sponsored by the Lyon and Russ families, who dedicated it in honor of Shauna Lyon, a lifelong educator retiring this May after an incredible 50-year career in education, most of it spent in the Midway School District.
“Education is the life work of our family, and we are empowered to see future educators growing in programs like the LEAD Center Teacher Academy,” said Mike Lyon. “We are proud to support students like Keelyn as they carry the torch forward.”
Co-Scholar Teacher of the Year: Addi Long
The second recipient of the Scholar Teacher of the Year award is Addi Long, a Ray-Pec High School student. Addi has completed 529 internship hours in 3rd-grade classrooms with Mrs. Weaver and Mrs. Jones and currently works for BOOST, a local educational support program. She has emerged as a natural leader and mentor among her peers, forming meaningful relationships with students and staff alike.
This award was made possible through the support of the Ray-Pec Public School Foundation and a generous group of business sponsors who have helped fund student scholarships across all LEAD Center programs.
Recognizing Our Award Sponsors
The LEAD Center and Teacher Academy would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the following community and business partners for their continued investment in student success:
United Heating and Cooling
All Hours Heating & Cooling
Eichman Sales Associates
Pro Mechanical LLC
Dobson Family
Balance Point Heating and Cooling
Bart’s Electric
PM Contracting
Murphy Tractor & Equipment Company
As the LEAD Center grows, so too does its impact—providing students with real-world skills, workplace readiness, and a pathway to fulfilling careers. The program continues to thrive thanks to the shared vision and support of families, educators, and community stakeholders.