Welcome to the Bag 'N Save Teacher of the Week contest. Each week we are giving away a $100 Bag 'N Save gift card to the teacher who has the highest vote count for that week. Those who have been a weekly winner have the chance at winning the Grand Prize. The Grand Prize is a $500 Bag 'N Save gift card for themselves, 25,000 Labels for Learning and an Apple® computer ($2,500 value) for their school.

Click HERE to read the official contest rules.

Congratulations to those who have been nominated by their peers and students. They have already won a $25 Bag 'N Save gift card.

Voting for the Teacher of the Week contest has concluded. Thanks to all of those who participated. You have all made this contest a great success.

WINNER'S GALLERY

	Mrs. Sandi Miller 1st Grade Seymor
	My name is Sandi Miller and I am a 1st grade teacher at Seymour Elementary in Ralston. I have spent the last 11 years teaching Pre-School, Kindergarten, 1st grade and 2nd grade. My husband Randy also teaches Art at Ralston High School. We have two kids, Ella and Jack. I want to thank my loving and caring students for nominating me!

	Mrs. Maureen Kuch 3rd Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	Teaching goes beyond just teaching the material – it’s about making a personal connection with my students. Learning is about having fun and investigating new topics. Looking at information in a variety of new ways. Thinking of and finding results independently – a new skill in third grade. But mostly, I want to believe that I can make a difference

	Mrs. Kathleen Cullinan 6th Grade St Robert Bellarmine
	Teaching is very rewarding! I love to make learning fun for the kids! As the 5th/6th grade language teacher at St. Robert Bellarmine, I make language fun. I'm a neologist, someone who makes up words. So in my class we do "readinking=reading & thinking" and we "kiderize=restating in kid language." We have Cullinanisms and babyisms, FAT-P, CUPPS...

	Mrs. Cat Keller 1st Grade St Stephen the Martyr
	I have the pleasure of sharing my time with 32 fantastic First Graders every day at St. Stephen the Martyr School in Omaha, NE! I feel that having the opportunity to teach is a true gift from God.

	Mrs. Rosemary Gazda 5th/6th Teacher St Robert Bellarmine
	I have been teaching at St. Robert's a long time. This is my 23rd year! I am a graduate of St. Robert's School too. As a student here, I never thought that I'd be back, but it has been a blessing for me. I am fortunate to teach Social Studies, a subject that I both enjoy and find exciting. I also work with the most amazing team of teachers!

	Ms. MaryJo Brinkman 1st Grade St Wenceslaus
	I have been teaching first grade in the Catholic Schools for nearly 20 years. I love my job and look forward to seeing the children each and every day. First graders amaze me and I learn just as much from them as they learn from me!!!!

	Mrs. Jackie Burklund 3rd Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	One of my favorite quotes is "Shoot for the moon! Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." I encourage students to believe in themselves and to take chances in their learning. You never know what you may discover! Thank you to my husband, daughter, son (Eric, Meredith and Noah) and all of my students for making each day a wonderful day!

	Ms. Amy Bacome 3rd Grade Bancroft Elementary
	My name is Amy Bacome. I have taught 3rd grade at Bancroft Elementary for 6 years, and have been the PTO treasurer for 5 years. My students and coworkers are amazing. They make teaching a new experience every single day. Thank you for nominating me! I am honored.

Here are all of the great men and women who were nominated by their peers and students. Thank you for all that you do.

	Mrs. Rita Adams 2nd Grade Holy Cross
	My two favorite things are watching flowers and children grow! I have been a teacher for 21 years. Holy Cross is a wonderful school, and I feel very fortunate being there with the students and families. I love being with my 2nd graders, sharing my faith with them, and watching them bloom and grow. They are special. I truly appreciate this honor.

	Ms. Amy Bacome 3rd Grade Bancroft Elementary
	My name is Amy Bacome. I have taught 3rd grade at Bancroft Elementary for 6 years, and have been the PTO treasurer for 5 years. My students and coworkers are amazing. They make teaching a new experience every single day. Thank you for nominating me! I am honored.

	Mrs. Jennifer Bahe 1st Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	Teaching first grade at Harvey Oaks is the most wonderful job in the world! I am greeted daily with smiles, hugs, excitement and enthusiasm! I am surrounded by an OUTSTANDING staff. Everyday is a joy.I love to spend time with my family & friends. My husband, Chip, is a teacher in Millard and our daughters, Rylee & Madi, go to Kiewit Middle School.

	Mrs. Kelly Bakey 3rd Grade John Neihardt Elementary
	My name is Kelly Bakey. I am a teacher at Neihardt Elementary and absolutely love it! The students are wonderful and my colleagues are the best around! This is my seventh year teaching third grade. I have a wonderful family with my husband Travis and my adorable little daughter Sophia. Everyday is an exciting opportunity for myself and the kids!

	Ms. MaryJo Brinkman 1st Grade St Wenceslaus
	I have been teaching first grade in the Catholic Schools for nearly 20 years. I love my job and look forward to seeing the children each and every day. First graders amaze me and I learn just as much from them as they learn from me!!!!

	Mrs. Kristyn Bryant 7th Grade Special Ed Teacher Central Middle School/Millard
	My name is Kristyn Bryant and I have been a Special Education Teacher for 22 years. I've taught special ed in several states before having the honor of teaching in Omaha. I am currently a 7th grade Inclusion Teacher at Central Middle School for Millard. My mission as a teacher is to ensure that each of my students reach his/her full potential.

	Mrs. Jackie Burklund 3rd Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	One of my favorite quotes is "Shoot for the moon! Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." I encourage students to believe in themselves and to take chances in their learning. You never know what you may discover! Thank you to my husband, daughter, son (Eric, Meredith and Noah) and all of my students for making each day a wonderful day!

	Mrs. Jody Carhart 5th Grade Ackerman
	"Above and Beyond" is the motto students use to describe my expectations for them and our attitude in the classroom! I try to make learning "fun" while incorporating life lessons in units we learn together. I have had the pleasure to teach in Millard for 22 years! The students genuine love for life and enthusiasm makes every day an adventure!

	Ms. Cindy Christensen 2nd Grade Dodge Elementary
	This is my 24th year of teaching at the elementary level. I have taught 11 years in Randolph, NE, 6 years at Belvedere, & this is my 7th year at Dodge. I currently have 27 students in my 2nd grade at Dodge. Every day is filled with eventful experiences with my inquisitive & eager students. I give credit to their families for all of their support.

	Mrs. Kathleen Cullinan 6th Grade St Robert Bellarmine
	Teaching is very rewarding! I love to make learning fun for the kids! As the 5th/6th grade language teacher at St. Robert Bellarmine, I make language fun. I'm a neologist, someone who makes up words. So in my class we do "readinking=reading & thinking" and we "kiderize=restating in kid language." We have Cullinanisms and babyisms, FAT-P, CUPPS...

	Ms. Sarah Davis 5th Grade St Joseph's
	It has been my distinct privilege to spend my first two years of teaching at St. Joseph's in York. Whether it's finding those rascally adverb clauses in 6th grade English or practicing the first 15 measures of "Thriller" in band, the students of St. Joseph's never cease to amaze me. I'm so thankful for the entire St. Joseph's community.

	Mr. Liam Dawson 4th Grade Pawnee Elementary
	I graduated from Creighton University in May of 2011 with a B.S. in Elementary Education. I have greatly enjoyed my first year teaching. I coach the 6th grade soccer and flag-football teams at Pawnee Elementary School. I enjoy having the opportunity to be a positive male role-model for my students and school. I am honored to have been nominated.

	Mrs. Cisily Eberhardt Kindergarten All Saints
	I have been teaching in Omaha Catholic schools for 25 years. I have spent most of my years teaching kindergarten. I am married and have two daughters. I also have three grandchildren. My husband and I love to work on our house and I especially love gardening. We have spent several years traveling with the Air Force, but are happily settled here!

	Mrs. Lisa Eichinger 6th Grade York Middle
	I began my teaching career in 1983 with York Public Schools. Since that time I have taught 3rd grade, Elementary Sped, MS Sped and am currently teaching 6th grade English. I love what I do and feel blessed to work with all of the amazing kids that I have the privilege to teach! I have 2 children of my own and a wonderful husband!

	Mrs. Chere Epke 3rd Grade York Elementary
	My name is Chere Epke. The past 21 years I have taught 3rd grade at York Elementary School. Teaching at YES is the best job possible because the students and their parents are amazing and the staff I work with is fantastic. All of us working together help each student reach their full potential. Thank you to my terrific students for nominating me.

	Ms. Rebecca Ferris 2nd Grade Blumfield Elementary
	My name is Rebecca Ferris. I graduated with my B.S. from Wayne State College and recently earned my masters degree from Peru State University. I have been an elementary school teacher for twelve years now and currently teach 2nd grade at Blumfield Elementary.

	Mrs. Sue Franco 2nd Grade St Thomas Moore
	My name is Sue Franco and I teach 2nd grade at St. Thomas More Catholic School. I feel that teaching is more than a job or a career. It is a ministry in bringing all of God's children closer to Him especially through the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. I am honored to become a nominee for Teacher of the Week. Thank you.

	Mrs. Rosemary Gazda 5th/6th Teacher St Robert Bellarmine
	I have been teaching at St. Robert's a long time. This is my 23rd year! I am a graduate of St. Robert's School too. As a student here, I never thought that I'd be back, but it has been a blessing for me. I am fortunate to teach Social Studies, a subject that I both enjoy and find exciting. I also work with the most amazing team of teachers!

	Mrs. Tina Gocke Jr High St Joseph's
	I started to teach at St. Joseph School in the fall of 1998. During that time my duties have included teaching 6th-8th grade science and computer classes for Kindergarten through 8th grade classes. I am fortunate to teach every student at St. Joseph School. My husband, Shannon teaches at York High and we have 2 children, Bailey and Harrison.

	Mr. Tim Herbert Special Education Central High
	I have been a proud member of the staff at Central high school and Omaha Public schools for 23 years. I teach Social Studies and Special Education. During my career I also coached basketball, girls softball,and boys soccer.I've been married for 15 years and have 2 boys ages 12 and 8.

	Mrs. Erin Herzog 3rd Grade Westbrook Elementary
	I have been lucky enough to teach 3rd grade for the last six years at Westbrook Elementary School in the Westside Community Schools. My husband and I have 2 sons, Camden and Cole. They keep us pretty busy! I love teaching at Westbrook. It is filled with amazing students who I am lucky enough to teach every day. It's an honor to be nominated!

	Mrs. Cat Keller 1st Grade St Stephen the Martyr
	I have the pleasure of sharing my time with 32 fantastic First Graders every day at St. Stephen the Martyr School in Omaha, NE! I feel that having the opportunity to teach is a true gift from God.

	Ms. Kaye Kiepert-Hensley Kindergarten Franklin
	My name is Kaye Kiepert-Hensley. I have been a Kindergarten teacher at Franklin Elementary in Omaha Public Schools for 28 years. I feel that giving each child a successful and nurturing start into their education is extremely important and vital for their future. Watching them grow and learn has inspired me to do my best. Thank you for this honor.

	Mr. Leo Kloewer Math & P.E. St Josephs
	I have been teaching at St. Joseph's Catholic School for the last 35 years. I teach 6th-8th grade math, K-8 physical education, and driver's education in the summer. I love teaching because I enjoy seeing my students succeed in future classes and they keep me feeling young.

	Mrs. Jillayne Krier 7th Grade Morton Middle School
	7th grade Human Growth and Development teacher at Morton Middle School Bachelor of arts from Augustana College, Sioux Falls, S.D. Masters of science from the University of Omaha, Omaha 45+ Graduate hours from the University of Omaha, Omaha 35.5 years with Omaha Public Schools Lifetime member of PTA/PTO

	Mrs. Maureen Kuch 3rd Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	Teaching goes beyond just teaching the material – it’s about making a personal connection with my students. Learning is about having fun and investigating new topics. Looking at information in a variety of new ways. Thinking of and finding results independently – a new skill in third grade. But mostly, I want to believe that I can make a difference

	Mrs. Mary Beth Kunze 4th Grade St Joseph's
	Hi, I have been teaching at St. Joseph School for over 27 years. It is a great place to interact with students and great families! Some things that I like to do are garden, travel and spoil my grandkids! Oh, yes... I really like to eat too:)

	Mr. Ryan Lampe 6th Grade Sts. Peter and Paul
	This is my fifth year of teaching at Sts. Peter and Paul. I have taught Jr. High Language Arts and Religion. I am also the safety patrol coordinator and enjoy helping with the school concerts (I have even performed with a group of Jr. High students). I have been blessed to work with the families at S.P.P. and thank them for this nomination.

	Ms. Jessica Leonard Kindergarten Sunny Slope
	My name is Jessica Leonard. I have been teaching kindergarten at Sunny Slope Elementary for five years and have loved every minute of it! This past summer I completed my master's degree in early childhood education. I am honored to be nominated for this award and am thankful for such a wonderful school community!

	Mrs. Teri Lisko Kindergarten Adams Elementary
	My name is Teri Lisko. I am a kindergarten teacher at Adams Elementary School. For twenty-nine years I have had the privilege to work with many wonderful students, families and staff members at Adams, I am honored to be nominated. Thank you!

	Ms. Karen Marsh 4th Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	Teaching is my rock! When the world is falling apart around us, I know that I can walk into my classroom and touch the hearts of others and open minds. I believe that I can help a child believe in all possibilities and never to give up on their dreams. Every year, my students teach me more about life than what I teach them.

	Mrs. Deborah Merrill Kindergarten Adams Elementary
	Hello, my name is Deb Merrill, I teach Kindergarten at Adams Elementary. It is truly a delight working with and watching Kindergarten students learn and grow. They amaze me daily. I am very honored to be nominated as one of Bag ‘N Save’s Teacher of the Week. Thank you parents and students of Adams Elementary!

	Mrs. Sandi Miller 1st Grade Seymor
	My name is Sandi Miller and I am a 1st grade teacher at Seymour Elementary in Ralston. I have spent the last 11 years teaching Pre-School, Kindergarten, 1st grade and 2nd grade. My husband Randy also teaches Art at Ralston High School. We have two kids, Ella and Jack. I want to thank my loving and caring students for nominating me!

	Mrs. Sheryl Mixan 5th Grade St Joan of Arc
	I have been a teacher for 32 years. I love to do a lot of hand's on projects with the students. When they leave my room each year, I hope that they feel that they have learned a lot and had a fun time doing it. My favorite subjects are Math, Science and Art.

	Ms. Courtney Moore 7th Grade Norris
	I never planned to be a teacher. I also never planned on being so driven and motivated to work for the success of someone else. I love the moment when a student has internalized a truth that will stay with them the rest of their life. I am passionate to see my students continue to improve their skills and be equipped for their future.

	Mrs. Sarah Morrison Science Beadle Middle School
	I have taught Science at Beadle Middle School for 4 years. I love teaching Science because we learn a ton while having lots of fun during labs and activities. I love my job because my students make me laugh every day and my colleagues are always willing to share their knowledge and ideas with each other. I can't imagine doing anything else!

	Mr. Corey Ostby 4th Grade Adams Elementary
	My name is Corey Ostby and this is my fourth year teaching 4th grade at Adams Elementary. I love building a team oriented environment and then learning together with my students. 4th grade students at Adams are the best, thanks for nominating me!

	Mrs. Korryn Phillips Kindergarten Harvey Oaks Elementary
	I LOVE teaching Kindergarten at Harvey Oaks Elementary! I have been teaching for 8 years but this is my first year at Harvey Oaks! I have an awesome husband, Jared and two beautiful children Addison (3) and Bennett (2). The best part of teaching is getting to be with the students every day! I love the excitement kindergarteners bring every morning!

	Mrs. Jennifer Pudenz 1st Grade Pawnee Elementary
	Hi! I am a first grade teacher at Pawnee Elementary. I have taught first grade for 13 years. My husband is also a teacher and we have three kids. They keep us busy with lots of activities. In my free time I enjoy traveling, reading, playing sports, and just being outside. I am honored to be selected as a nominee. I truly love watching kids learn!

	Mrs. Sally Rehmeier Technology Fullerton Magnet
	I am the Magnet Technology Specialist for grades 2, 3, and 4 at Fullerton Magnet Center. Our Magnet school specializes in communication skills and electronic media. I am a graduate of UNO with a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education and a Masters degree in Technology from Lesley University. This is my 28th year of teaching.I love what I do!

	Mrs. Brenda Ridder 5th Grade Harvey Oaks Elementary
	When I was a little girl, I dreamed of being a teacher! For the past 30 years, I've been living that dream! I am so lucky to have a career that I truly love. I treasure my time with students, parents, staff, and the Harvey Oaks community. It's a wonderful place to live, work, and grow with my husband, Don, and our children, Kris, Jake, and Bridget.

	Mrs. Debbie Ritsch 3rd & 4th Grade Mt. Cavalry
	I knew I wanted to be a teacher since third grade. I have taught 26 years in the same school. During that time, I have taught different combinations of 2nd through 6th grades. I have always taught in a multi-grade situation. Math is my favorite subject to teach!

	Mrs. Michelle Ryan 2nd Grade Highland Elementary
	I am enjoying my 12th year teaching at Highland Elementary. I am currently teaching 2nd grade, but have also taught 1st grade and a 1st/2nd combination room. I love it when I am able to see how far our students have come throughout the year! When I'm not teaching, I'm spending time with my husband and adorable 2 yr old.

	Ms. Denys Shafer Music Adams Elementary
	My name is Denys Shafer and I have been at Adams for 7 years. I teach K - 6 vocal music, chorus and started a show choir last year. I also teach technology. The last few years I have coached sports and been a sponsor for student council. I truly enjoy teaching at Adams. The students, parents, and staff at Adams are the best.

	Mrs. Jennifer Sinnott 6th Grade Joslyn Elementary
	My name is Jennifer Sinnott and I am in my fifth year of teaching 6th grade at Joslyn Elementary. I love being a teacher and enjoy each of my students. I hope to teach them as much as they teach me. I am very honored to be nominated by my Joslyn students. Thank You!

	Mr. Ken Sukraw German Beadle Middle School
	After 30 years in Millard, I will say auf wiedersehen in May as I retire. I have truly enjoyed my students and the time we spend learning German. I also teach money management and sponsor stock market club. Goal: helping students be successful and grow a passion for learning. Motto: make a positive difference wherever you are!

	Ms. Leann Thompson Kindergarten Fire Ridge
	My name is Leann Thompson(aka Mrs.T.). I currently teach kindergarten at Fire Ridge Elementary in Elkhorn. This is my 30th year of teaching. I feel blessed to have a job where I get to have a part in teaching kindergartners their foundations of learning. I love making learning fun through games and songs. Thanks for this nomination!

	Mrs. Cherilyn Wicks 3rd Grade Cather Elementary
	My name is Cherilyn Wicks and I currently teach 3rd grade at Cather Elementary in Millard. I am in my 15th year of teaching. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember! I feel privileged to teach and find joy in helping children grow both socially and academically. Thanks for nominating me!

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WINNER'S GALLERY