Beatrice Middle School teacher receives top scout honor

BEATRICE – A surprised middle school teacher at Beatrice received an honor Friday, before classes of students at the school’s gym.

Seventh Grade Science Teacher Ron Kassmeier was honored with the Scouting of America’s Elbert Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award….one of four such honors given in Nebraska by the Boy Scouts of America. The award signifies improving students’ lives by proactively modeling and teaching Scouting values.

Angie Rushman is with the Cornhusker Council of the Boy Scouts and says Kassmeier was nominated by students, colleagues and families.

"Ron has the ability to be direct with expectations, but build genuine relationships with students. Students work well, because he sets clear boundaries, high expectations, but will celebrate their successes when they make achievements in the classroom. You are someone who has spent a lifetime in a difficult curricular area to fill...and has taught it at a high level. Our proficiency scores wouldn't be nearing 80 percent, without his leadership in the science department."

The Fretwell award is named for an early leader in the scouting organization, a scholar focusing on extracurricular opportunities to improve educational outcomes.

Kassmeier received a medal and plaque during student activities at the gym Friday toward the end of the school day.  He'll also be honored later this spring at a scouting event. Kassmeier has been an educator for 27 years, starting his career at Stapleton before moving to Beatrice.