Liz Miller, a middle school English/ Language Arts teacher at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Natchitoches, was named the recipient of the Em W. Knipmeyer Excellence in Teaching Award for the 2020-21 school year.
This award has been given for 16 years and is usually presented by Mrs. Jo B. Stamey to an outstanding teacher in honor of her sister, Em Knipmeyer, who was a graduate, former teacher and principal at St. Mary’s. This year the award was presented by Principal Andrea Harrell as Mrs. Stamey was unable to attend. The award honors a current teacher who holds the same teaching ideals of Knipmeyer.
Miller joined St. Mary’s as a receptionist in 2011.
After receiving her teaching degree from Louisiana College, she began her middle school teaching in English/Language Arts in December of 2012. She also serves as the faculty sponsor for the high school Student Council. “Mrs. Miller displays a strong commitment to excellence and to the St. Mary’s school mission.
She has the respect and admiration of students, parents and colleagues,” said Harrell. “She displays creativity, a willingness to try new ideas in the classroom, poise, eloquence and above all a Christ-like character in all areas of life. She embodies this description and daily models it throughout her life and role as a teacher on our staff.”
The award was presented April 22 after an All School Mass at the school during Student Council Week.