Marquette High physical education teacher Felicia Durst has been named a 2022 SHAPE (Society of Health and Physical Educators) America Central District Teacher of the Year. Durst received the award for her work as a high school physical education teacher. The SHAPE America Central District covers nine states: Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado.

“I am extremely honored to receive this award and for being recognized by my peers in my content area,” Durst said. “We have done a lot of work in Rockwood Physical Education over the last 10 years, and receiving this award shows that our work is being recognized and that we are doing the right thing for kids.”

Durst, who is in her 22nd year of teaching in the Rockwood School District, completed her National Board Certification last year. She has been at Marquette since August 2000.

“The students are the reason we come to work every day,” Durst said. “They motivate us to do our best and find ways to make physical education fun and rewarding. Our goal is to help kids learn how to live a healthy lifestyle and be able to take care of themselves physically, emotionally and socially.”

SHAPE America will honor the District Teachers of the Year at the 2022 SHAPE America National Convention and Expo in New Orleans, April 26-30.

During the convention’s closing general session on April 29, SHAPE America will announce which district winner in each of the six categories has been named the National Teacher of the Year for that category. Durst is one of five finalists for National High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year.

“Coach Durst loves and lives what she teaches,” said Marquette Principal Dr. Steve Hankins. “She is an advocate for every student at MHS. Her dedication to the well-being of staff and students goes above and beyond. Marquette is lucky to have such an outstanding person and educator.”

"Felicia is a true example of a student-centered physical educator," added Sally Schulte, Rockwood's coordinator for physical education, health and drivers education. "She strives to make strong relationships with her students and meets them where they are to allow them the opportunities to grow and find success. She creates safe and nurturing spaces for her students and is a leader and an advocate for our profession. Rockwood is so proud of her and excited to celebrate these accomplishments!"