South Teacher Named Regional Teacher of the Year

On June 25, the Southwest Regional Professional Development Center Agency for Teaching, Leading and Learning recognized Ozark South Elementary First Grade Teacher Kristen McGauley as a 2026-27 Regional Teacher of the Year. 

“This recognition is a reflection of the extraordinary dedication, passion, and care Mrs. McGauley brings to her students each and every day,” Superintendent Dr. Lori Wilson said. “We are incredibly proud of her and the lasting impact she has on her students. She truly embodies our district's motto: Excellence Drives Us, Tradition Unites Us.” 

McGauley, who was also recognized as Ozark's Elementary Teacher of the Year in August 2025, has 14 years of experience supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Missouri State University and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Leadership from Evangel University.

“I am deeply grateful to my family, colleagues, and the entire Ozark community for the support, encouragement, and opportunities that have shaped me as an educator. It is a privilege to help lay the foundation for young learners as they begin their educational journey,” said McGauley, who has wanted to be a teacher since she was a first-grader. “My goal has always been to create a classroom where children feel safe to take risks, believe in themselves, and discover what they are capable of. Getting to witness Ozark students gain confidence, overcome challenges, and realize their potential is what makes teaching so rewarding to me.”

McGauley now moves on to be considered for Teacher of the Year for the entire state of Missouri through the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. 

“This honor belongs not only to me, but to the students who inspire me every day, the Ozark community that believed in me well before my career began, and the teachers who gave me the encouragement and hope to pursue that first-grade dream,” she said. “I am incredibly honored and thankful, and I hope to represent the students, educators, and community of Ozark well at the state level.”

Along with McGauley, two other teachers received the regional award and are eligible to compete for the state award: Nicole Crocker of Branson Public Schools, and Clarissa Pohlman of Springfield Public Schools. The Regional Teachers of the Year will be recognized at the Missouri State Teacher of the Year Awards Banquet in October.