Salina Diocese Catholic Schools announces TMP-Marian teacher as educator of the year

Submitted

The Office of Education for the Catholic Schools of the Salina Diocese is honored to announce that Ms. Jennie Helget has been selected as the Salina Diocese Distinguished Educator of the Year for the Kansas Association of Independent and Religious Schools (KAIRS). Ms. Helget currently serves as the Junior High Math teacher at Thomas More Prep-Marian (TMP-M).

This prestigious selection underscores the exceptional caliber and commitment of teaching professionals within our Diocesan schools. Ms. Helget embodies the ideal Catholic educator—one whose work transcends instruction and becomes a true ministry.

A Legacy of Vocation and Trust.

Ms. Helget's extensive career includes two decades of dedicated service at Holy Family Elementary. Now teaching Junior High Math at TMP-M, she continues to demonstrate the highest level of professionalism and care. The nomination highlights that her lessons are creative and organized, her classroom environment is uplifting, and her positivity is truly contagious.

Her impact extends beyond the classroom walls:

1. Proactive Student Support: Ms. Helget possesses a unique ability to tune into students' needs, often solving academic, social, or emotional issues before they can escalate, serving as an invaluable mentor.
2. Leadership Among Peers: She is a trusted resource for colleagues and administration, frequently sought out to provide counsel and gauge morale across the faculty.
3. Impeccable Communication: She maintains an exceptional standard of communication with students, parents, and colleagues, always displaying the necessary balance of directness and diplomacy.

Principal Chad Meitner affirmed the selection, stating, "Jennie is one of those special educators that students admire and appreciate... She couples this skillset and attitude with a work ethic that is second to none. Jennie's ministry is varied and powerful, confirming that teaching is a vocation for her."

Ms. Helget will be recognized and honored alongside other statewide recipients at the annual KAIRS Banquet in February 2026. We are immensely proud of her contributions to the Catholic community and the future of our students.