Minerva teachers honored at appreciation banquet

The Minerva Local Education Association held its annual Teacher Appreciation Banquet May 18 at Tee House Social at Great Trail Golf Course.

The event was sponsored by Minerva Rotary Club and Clark, Clark & Chaddock.

Educators recognized included first-year teachers Kamryn Bondoni, Nadia Gray, Natalie Hinkle, Maggie Masl, Mason Middleton, Mackenzie Scott and Zachary Slates; 10-year honorees Lisa Anthony and Jacalyn Woods; 20-year honorees Robert Carle, Aimee Davis and Allison Wukotich; and 30-year honoree Debra Imler.

Retirees recognized were Michele Harris of Minerva Elementary School and Debra Imler and Valerie Slaton of Minerva High School.

MLEA Legacy Scholarships were awarded to Paisley Imler and Alora Boldon.

Karen Johnson, a first grade teacher at Minerva Elementary School, received the 2026 Golden Apple Award for teaching excellence. Johnson was selected from nominations submitted by students, colleagues and parents. More than 77 educators were nominated.

Johnson has spent more than 33 years working with Minerva’s youngest students. A Tiffin native and graduate of Tiffin Calvert High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Walsh College and later earned a master’s degree from the American College of Education in 2020.

Johnson began in Minerva as a kindergarten teacher before moving to first grade, a position she has held since.

Students, parents and colleagues praised Johnson for making learning fun, building confidence and supporting both students and teachers. Minerva Superintendent Mark Scott described teaching first grade as Johnson’s life calling and said she is a passionate and dedicated educator who impacts students every day.

MLEA officials said Johnson exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional educator through her leadership, care and commitment to student success.