Each year, Civic Nebraska’s Strengthening Democracy Awards recognize Nebraskans whose work embodies the spirit of a modern, robust democracy. Among our 2018 honorees are educators, administrators, students and everyday Nebraskans. We officially honor the winners April 12, but before then, here’s a chance to learn a bit more about what makes them special.
2018 Outstanding Educator
Civic Nebraska honors Kate Endorf of Weeping Water Public Schools as the 2018 recipient of the Outstanding Educator Award. Endorf’s dedication to the Rural Civic Action Project, as well as her ongoing efforts to create student leaders in Weeping Water, made her a clear choice.
Endorf’s classrooms have consistently yielded some of the best RCAP projects, including the renovation of Weeping Water community assets such as the town’s basketball courts and gazebo. Another was a student-led public education campaign promoting positive self-image.
“Kate has helped her students understand firsthand how to have a positive impact on their community,” said Amanda Barker, Civic Nebraska’s deputy executive director.
A family and consumer sciences teacher at Weeping Water, Endorf has been teaching since 2016. She grew up in Daykin, Nebraska, and attended high school at Meridian High School as well as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Endorf told The Warrior in 2016 that she has always wanted to teach. Beyond learning about family and consumer needs in the classroom, Endorf said she has a goal for all of her students: To be, and to become, kind people.
“I want to help kids realize their potential,” she said.
See Endorf and her fellow honorees at this year’s Strengthening Democracy Awards on April 12 at Chez Hay in Lincoln. Get your tickets here.
