Emerson honors two FHSD teachers with Excellence in Teaching Award

Jennifer Daugherty and Lori Rupp join an elite group of St. Louis area educators selected to receive the 2022 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards, now in its 33rd year, is one of the St. Louis region’s most acknowledged teacher recognition programs. The awards honor teachers for their passion for teaching, their impact on student learning, and their knowledge and creativity in the classroom. The recipients are chosen for their outstanding contributions to the teaching profession and to the students they teach. 

Jennifer Daugherty has worked in FHSD since 1998 and teaches band at Hollenbeck Middle School. She has been an integral part of the Hollenbeck family for many years with her support and care for students and other staff members. As the department lead for the fine arts team, Ms. Daugherty has coordinated efforts to bring community members into the school through the Halloween Spooktacular and Veteran’s Day Celebration. She is a conduit to solve problems, build continuity among teachers and is highly respected among her peers.

“Ms. Daugherty is truly a gift to the Hollenbeck community and is well deserving of this recognition,” said Hollenbeck Principal Dr. Allison Klouse. “Her humble and steadfast approach to leadership, education, supporting individuals and care for all is an inspiration and should be commended.”

Lori Rupp has been a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Francis Howell High School  for seven years and has worked in FHSD for 25 years. She is a multi-talented professional who is a pioneer in her field, and she sets herself apart from her colleagues through her dedication to her students and department. Her passion for teaching is evident in everything she does. She was instrumental in creating and implementing the Teaching as a Career Pathways Program. The program gives FHSD high school students the opportunity to learn how to be a teacher, and then practice what they've learned under the supervision of certified District teachers.

“I cannot think of a better person to receive this award than Mrs. Rupp,” said FHHS Activities Director Sean Erwin. “You will not find a more talented, dedicated, caring and compassionate educator.”

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards program, sponsored by Emerson, annually recognizes more than 100 educators in the St. Louis metropolitan area – from kindergarten teachers to college professors – who are examples of excellence in their field.