Katie Sandoval, guidance counselor at Washington High School, has been named the School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2025 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.

Sandoval was informed of her award by Washington High School Principal Dr. Eric Turner and School District of Washington Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart on Wednesday, November 5, during a high school staff meeting.

Sandoval, who will retire following the 2025-26 school year, has been in education for 25 years, 24 years at Washington High School. She taught Spanish at WHS for three years before taking her current role as counselor. She also served as the Key Club sponsor for six years. She began her teaching career in 2001 at John F. Kennedy High School in Manchester.

“Knowing that my peers, administrators and district leaders believe that I am deserving of such a prestigious award makes me feel surprised, thankful, amazed, and jubilant,” Sandoval said. “This is the culmination of my hard work and dedication to educating young people.”  

Sandoval enjoys being around and working with her peers and students, which is why she chose to pursue the education profession.

“I believe that education is a right and a privilege. I am so grateful for all of the opportunities and influential people that I have had throughout my life that have supported me in developing the skills, grit and determination to become the educator that I am today,” Sandoval said. “I have learned a tremendous amount of how to be of service to others through education from my parents, both retired educators.

“In high school, I was very involved with the student council. My student council sponsors taught me how to lead with dignity and grace. In elementary school, I received special education services. My special education teacher taught me how to stay determined and work hard to achieve what I wanted. All of the stages of my educational development and the people that have influenced me have led me to this profession. In high school, I knew that the place I wanted to be of service was in the secondary educational environment. It’s my passion and my calling.

“I must also acknowledge the team of past and present school counselors, social workers, college and career advisors, business connection coordinators, and administrators that have come together to support our students. The coordination of this team has led to many outstanding programs that have supported thousands of students.”  

Sandoval’s work at Washington High School does not go unnoticed. 

“Katie is a remarkable educator who makes every student and staff member feel seen, supported, and valued. Her impact reaches far beyond her office - she makes Washington High School a better place every single day,” Turner said. “Katie is the kind of educator who shows up early, stays late, and gives her heart to this school. Whether she’s counseling a student, supporting a teacher, or cheering at a game, she’s all in for WHS. The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award is meant to honor educators who go above and beyond in their service to students - and that perfectly describes Katie Sandoval. Her compassion, dedication, and quiet leadership represent the very best of Washington High School.”

“We are incredibly proud of Katie Sandoval for being recognized with the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award,” Kephart said. “Mrs. Sandoval exemplifies what it means to be a student-centered educator. She leads with compassion, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to helping every student succeed. This honor is a reflection of her dedication and the positive impact she has on the students and staff at Washington High School.”

 

 

Katie Sandoval, guidance counselor at Washington High School, has been named the School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2025 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award.

 

 

Katie Sandoval, guidance counselor at Washington High School, has been named the School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2025 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award.

 

 

Katie Sandoval, guidance counselor at Washington High School, has been named the School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2025 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award. From left are Washington High School Principal Dr. Eric Turner, Katie Sandoval and School District of Washington Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart.

 

 

Katie Sandoval, guidance counselor at Washington High School, has been named the School District of Washington’s recipient of the 2025 Emerson Electric Excellence in Teaching Award. From left are fellow WHS counselors Manuela Schmitt, Makenzie Ellis, Katie Sandoval, Bradley Kuntzman and Lindsey Jasper (social worker).