Jeff Frankenberg, Building Construction instructor at Four Rivers Career Center, has been named the School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2024 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award.

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards program 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. It is one of the St. Louis region’s most recognized teacher recognition programs.

Recipients are selected by the chief administrators of their school districts or educational institutions. The employing educational institution must be located in the St. Louis metropolitan area, which is defined to include: (in Missouri) Franklin County, Jefferson County, St. Charles County, St. Louis City, St. Louis County; and (in Illinois) Jersey County, Madison County, Monroe County, and St. Clair County.

Frankenberg was informed of his award by School District of Washington Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart on Friday, November 8, during his building construction class. He has been a Building Construction instructor at Four Rivers Career Center for six years. Prior to his time at FRCC, he worked in construction and as an electrician for over 20 years.

Frankenberg and Rob York are the Building Construction instructors at FRCC.

“It’s an honor to receive this Emerson Teaching Award. Thanks to everyone who made it possible,” Frankenberg said. “I like the people who I work with here at the Career Center. We have an excellent staff. I enjoy working with the students and educating them on the craft and the different aspects of building construction. No day is the same. Every day is different.”

Frankenberg, a Four Rivers Career Center graduate himself, enjoys sharing his expertise with his students. 

“I chose to go into teaching building construction because I saw a need for a new work force with the skills and values needed in the industry. I wanted to pass on the knowledge I have to the future builders and construction workers,” Frankenberg said. “I was a product of the Four Rivers Building Trades program and graduated from Four Rivers. I replaced my instructor, who was Garry Gerhart. When he was retiring, he asked me if I would consider applying for the job, and I eventually did.”

Frankenberg’s work at the Career Center does not go unnoticed. 

“Jeff is one of the best teachers I have ever been around. He cares a lot about his students, and it shows,” said Four Rivers Career Center Director Philip King. “There are many days I have noticed him working late to prepare labs, contacting parents, or contacting local businesses. He has set up fun and engaging field trips for his students. He regularly brings in guest speakers to demonstrate for the students. Jeff works hard to make every student successful. He is solution oriented.”

“We are honored to have Mr. Frankenberg honored with an Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award,” Kephart said. “Mr. Frankenberg's dedication to teaching Building Trades at Four Rivers Career Center embodies our focus on preparing students for post-graduation success. His commitment to providing students with daily, hands-on learning opportunities equips them with practical skills that prepare them for success beyond high school. We are proud to have such a devoted and impactful educator in our district, inspiring students and shaping their futures with every lesson.”

School District of Washington Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart informs
Four Rivers Career Center Building Construction instructor Jeff Frankenberg
that he is Washington’s recipient of the 2024 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award.

Jeff Frankenberg is presented the Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award from
SDOW Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart.

Jeff Frankenberg, Building Construction instructor at Four Rivers Career Center, has been named the
School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2024 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award.
From left are School District of Washington Assistant Superintendents Maranda Anderson and John McColloch,
SDOW Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart, Frankenberg, SDOW Director of Choice Programs Dr. Joe Dierks,
FRCC Director Philip King, and SDOW Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rachael Franssen.