The Story Behind the Excellence in Education Award
Teachers work tirelessly to provide a safe, inspiring, and fun learning environment to make a difference in our children’s lives. Often, their efforts go unrecognized. This reality prompted Makovicka Sylliaasen Physical Therapy, a locally-owned clinic deeply connected to the Saunders County community, to establish an award to recognize teachers who demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence. The award reflects the company’s broader commitment to the Wahoo area.
The Excellence in Education Award is presented twice yearly, once each semester of the academic year—typically in early December and early May. What makes this award special is that it’s truly community-driven.
Who Can Nominate?
Anyone can nominate a deserving teacher:
- Parents
- Students
- Fellow teachers and colleagues
- Community members
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the award, teachers must:
- Hold a full-time teaching position
- Work at a Wahoo or Saunders Catholic school, including:
The Selection Process
A committee comprised of two community leaders, two school principals, and staff from Makovicka Sylliaasen Physical Therapy receives nominations and votes on winners. This diverse committee ensures that winners are evaluated fairly and represent the best of educational excellence in the community.
What Winners Receive
The Excellence in Education Award isn’t just a certificate—it’s a meaningful recognition that benefits both the teacher and their school:
- $550 check for the winning teacher
- $200 check for the teacher’s school, to be directed by the winning teacher toward educational needs
- Highlighting on Makovicka Physical Therapy’s social media platforms
Excellence in Education Award Winners
Mrs. Lori Nelson St. Wenceslaus Elementary Catholic School
Mr. Bill Kellett Bishop Neumann High School
Ms. Lisa Zysset Wahoo Public Elementary
Ms. Leighton Ware Wahoo Public Elementary and High School
Mr. Cody Waldman Bishop Neumann High School
.
How to Nominate
The nomination process is straightforward and accessible. During each nomination period:
Nomination Timeline:
- January–April (specific dates vary from year to year): Nominations accepted
- April -middle of month: Forms sent to committee
- May -beginning of month: Committee submits recommendations
- May second week in month: School notified and presentation planned
Nomination forms can be:
- Turned in at any participating school
- Dropped off at the Makovicka Sylliaasen Physical Therapy clinic in Wahoo (559 W. 15th Street)
- Emailed to: kathyb@makovickapt.com
The nomination form asks for specific information about why the teacher deserves recognition, allowing nominators to share stories and examples of how the educator has made a difference in students’ lives.
Why This Matters
In an era where teachers often work long hours with limited resources and recognition, the Excellence in Education Award serves as a reminder that the community sees and values their contributions. It’s more than financial support—it’s a public acknowledgment that great teaching shapes lives and builds stronger communities.
For Makovicka Sylliaasen Physical Therapy, this award represents their philosophy of care extending beyond physical rehabilitation. Just as they help patients recover and return to active lives, they recognize that teachers help students grow and reach their full potential. Both professions require dedication, patience, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.
Community members have the opportunity to recognize the exceptional educators working in Wahoo and Saunders County schools. Whether it’s a teacher who stayed after school to help a struggling student, one who made learning come alive through innovative lessons, or an educator who served as a mentor and role model, now is the time to nominate them.
The Excellence in Education Award reminds us that while teaching may often be a thankless job, there are community members and organizations who see the difference great teachers make—and want to celebrate it.
To nominate a deserving teacher for the Excellence in Education Award –forms may be found at the participating school office, the Makovicka Sylliaasen Physical Therapy clinic at 559 West 15th, or by contacting kathyb@makovickapt.com.