Clara Steffen: Literacy Leader becomes Teacher of the Year at Lewis
Excelsior Springs, Mo. – Though this is Clara Steffen’s first year at Lewis Elementary, you’d never guess it by the impact she’s made. As the school’s Title I Reading Specialist, Steffen has brought nearly two decades of teaching experience to her new classroom in Excelsior Springs. With it comes an ability to grow confidence in young readers.
After 18 years in education, Steffen still holds tight to the belief that all students can learn and she plans her instruction accordingly. “She works diligently to plan instruction that will grow all of her students and regularly collaborates with staff,” Jill Comstock, principal of Lewis Elementary shared. “She is a master at her craft and a true literacy leader at Lewis.”
That dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed by the students, either. “Mrs. Steffen makes learning to read fun,” said one. Another added, “She keeps us on track and she is a really good teacher.” Perhaps the most telling feedback came from a young reader who simply said, “She has helped me in so many ways, I can’t even explain!”
Steffen doesn’t just teach reading, but she builds a love for it from the ground up. This year, she helped plan two successful literacy nights for families and is organizing a summer reading challenge that will conclude with a celebration in the fall. With her first year here coming to a close, her big plans for the future will surely bring more students closer to reading and thriving.
When she’s not supporting young readers, Steffen enjoys time with her two grown children and exploring the outdoors. Hiking and traveling are two of her favorite pastimes.
At Lewis, Steffen isn’t just seen as a teacher—she’s seen as a confidence-builder, a leader, and a champion for student growth. As one student put it best: “She is not just good, she is GREAT!”
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