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Rockwood Educators Earn 2025 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards

Rockwood Educators Earn 2025 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards

Lafayette High band director Brad Balog, Stanton Elementary librarian Jordan Espinosa and LaSalle Springs Middle material processes teacher Bryan Tenny have been named 2025 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award recipients.

The three Rockwood educators are among 108 teachers from across the St. Louis metropolitan area who are being recognized this year through the Emerson program as examples of truly outstanding educational excellence. 

Balog, Espinosa and Tenny were each named their Rockwood school and grade-level Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026, and Balog earned the title of district Teacher of the Year in May.

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards, now in its 36th year, is one of the St. Louis region’s most established teacher recognition programs, helping the St. Louis region show gratitude to educators who go above and beyond for their students and school communities.

Congratulations to these outstanding Rockwood educators!

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