Paola USD 368, 2027

Elementary Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Megan Olson

Megan Olson is a kindergarten teacher at Cottonwood Elementary with 10 years of experience in elementary education.

She is driven by a passion for watching children grow academically and socially.  From early literacy and math to social skills, she understands that kindergarten is where children first learn to be students.  She also knows that trust and relationships must come first.

Her classroom is built around hands-on and active learning helping to keep students engaged.  All students entering her classroom know they are cared for, respected and important.

Mrs. Olson credits her family, and amazing colleagues at Cottonwood Elementary for their support in helping make her be the best teacher she can be.

Paola USD 368, 2027

Secondary Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Ali McCullough

Ali McCullough is a technology education teacher at Paola High School with 16 years of experience teaching creative and technical subjects, including graphic design, animation, and digital media.

She believes that creativity is not simply a talent someone is born with, but a skill that can be developed through exploration, practice, and a willingness to take risks. Her classroom encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and discover abilities they may not have recognized in themselves.

Through hands-on projects and real-world experiences, Mrs. McCullough strives to create an environment where students feel valued, take ownership of their learning, and understand that their ideas matter. She finds the greatest reward in watching students who once doubted their creative abilities gain confidence and take pride in what they can accomplish.

Above all, she hopes students leave her classroom with more than technical skills, carrying a sense of confidence, curiosity, and the belief that they are capable of creating something meaningful.