Jefferson’s of North Kansas City is pleased to announce that Lindsey Russell has been named the first-ever Jefferson’s North Kansas City Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Russell teaches Special Education at Bell Prairie Elementary School. Mrs. Russell loves game nights, the color pink, the Chiefs and Royals, and has been an educator for 19 years.
Mrs. Russell was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by students and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Teachers’ Day–today, May 6–aims to recognize one of North Kansas City’s many deserving educators. Jefferson’s selected Mrs. Russell as the NKC Teacher of the Year for her huge heart and ability to meet every student where they are.
“Mrs. Russell’s nominators spoke of her unwavering compassion,” said co-owner/franchisee Nick Price. “She advocates for her students, and makes sure they feel accepted. Her heart is all in on what she does, and she’s ready to learn and adapt at every turn to make sure her students thrive. We’re honored to recognize Mrs. Russell for her dedication and her contribution to the North Kansas City community.”
Mrs. Russell will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and her achievement will be commemorated with a “Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year” plaque for all restaurant patrons to see.
“One of my most cherished teaching memories is having my students be a part of my wedding day—not just as guests, but with special jobs to do!” Mrs. Russell said in a statement. “Each of them had a role, from handing out programs to walking down the aisle, and they took their responsibilities so seriously (and joyfully!). It was incredibly heartwarming to see the pride on their faces and the love they brought to the day. Sharing that moment with them reminded me that teaching is so much more than academics—it’s about building a community, celebrating milestones together, and creating memories that last a lifetime. My students made my wedding day absolutely magical.”
This year is the pilot run for the Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year award, launched as a sister program to Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award, which runs in the fall. The teachers’ initiative was open to teachers working with students of any age, and candidates could be nominated by students, parents and guardians of students, school officials, or other community members.