Beatrice Middle School instructor honored as a top educator

BEATRICE – Nothing like having a bunch of adults briefly take over your middle school reading class, but that’s what happened Tuesday morning.

Beatrice Middle School teacher Erin Trusty was honored with this year’s Clabaugh Family Educator Award. Trusty’s husband, Eric, their daughters, Clabaugh family members, administrators, teachers, Beatrice Education Foundation members and students were on hand as the award was presented. Foundation Executive Director Doris Martin talked about the nomination of Trusty as this year’s honoree.

"Learning is a priority for this outstanding educator as is feeling good about her students' accomplishments. Being present in students' lives, is a priority. I think most important is this seven-word sentence. She wants her students to dream big. This year's Clabaugh Outstanding Educator does this, and more, for her students."

The award includes a star statue and a check for $1,000. The Clabaugh family has been honoring teachers in the Beatrice school system for five years. Rick Clabaugh says the family leaves it up to the Beatrice Educational Foundation and nominators to pick the award winner.

"Thank you to the Beatrice Educational Foundation...and also I want to thank Doris Martin...who is the one that had a conversation with us five years ago. We're really pleased to be a part of it, still. I just want to say that Erin....we're so proud of you with everything you've accomplished."

Trusty had a look of surprise by the honor presented at the beginning of a class.

A nominator described Trusty as a person of impressive intelligence, with perceptiveness, wit and creativity…..helping students make connections and problem-solve. She is credited with emphasizing relationship building and making students excited about their reading.

Erin Trusty holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.