Henryetta teacher Nicki Story got the surprise of her life Tuesday morning.
The day started off as just another time to get settled into her fourth grade classroom then she was notified of a social media post announcing her as the KOTV Innovative Teacher for the week.
Story, who is in her fifth year as a teacher here, was cited as making a difference in the lives of her students.
Each week the Tulsa-based television station teams up with Every Kid Counts Oklahoma to select a special teacher. Once chosen, their names go into a drawing that will give one instructor $1,000.
“I don’t know who submitted me for consideration,” she said while trying to corral a classroom of 20 students Wednesday.
The recognition means a lot for the daughter of Steve and Tammy Story. “I got into teaching because I have always loved kids and want to make a difference. I see a need that kids need to feel important, as though they have a place in this world and I want to help.
Henryetta schools is near and dear to Story. Her fourth grade classroom sits across the hall from the room where she studied as a fourth grader. “I love it here in elementary grades. I actually thought I wanted to teach younger students but this is a good age. These kids have a good sense of humor.”
Working with youngsters comes naturally for Story. In her off hours, she handles some 50 head of paint and quarter horses, most of them young ones, and gets them ready to compete in halter contests all across the state.
That patience and determination comes through as she works with the students in social studies and English classes.
“This is quite an honor for Nicki,” said Henryetta elementary principal Roger Williams. “She always goes above and beyond what she is asked to do and tries to give the students a unique educational experience.”
He said she often brings in items from her farm to let students get some hands-on experience with activities they normally would not be able to have.
Every Kid Counts Oklahoma is a statewide organization that works with schools, the media and government to create new opportunities in education.