FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 24, 2025

Spring Hill Schools Educator Brock LaPlante Receives 2025 Kansas Horizon Award

Spring Hill High School teacher Brock LaPlante has been named a recipient of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award, recognizing exceptional new educators across the state. This prestigious honor highlights Brock’s dedication to his students and the collaborative efforts of the entire Spring Hill community.

Spring Hill, KS – Spring Hill High School teacher Brock LaPlante has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Kansas Horizon Award, recognizing exceptional new educators across the state of Kansas.

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) announced the honor, which is awarded to only 32 teachers statewide, distinguishing outstanding educators for their teaching skills and commitment to student success.

Brock was personally notified by Kansas Commissioner of Education, Dr. Randy Watson, who praised his contributions, saying, “Everyone at Spring Hill High School and across USD 230 think the world of you. We have 50,000 teachers in Kansas, and today, only a select few receive this distinction. Congratulations on being one of them.”

Reflecting on the award, Brock emphasized the collaborative environment at Spring Hill High School, stating, “This building really does make it special and easy with all the parts everyone plays. The success here is a team effort. It’s nice to get the award, but it’s truly a tribute to all the incredible work happening across our district.”

Dr. Link Luttrell, Superintendent of Spring Hill Schools, echoed these sentiments, saying, “We are incredibly proud of Brock for his dedication and the positive impact he’s made on our students. This recognition speaks to his exceptional talent and to the supportive community that empowers our educators to succeed.”

As a Horizon Award recipient, Brock will join the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN), a group of outstanding Kansas educators who collaborate and lead professional development. He will be formally recognized during the KEEN State Education Conference on February 21, 2025, in Topeka, where his family and colleagues will have the opportunity to celebrate this milestone with him.

The Kansas Horizon Award program allows districts to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher annually. To be eligible, educators must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and demonstrated exceptional skills in the classroom.

For more information about the Kansas Horizon Award program, visit the Kansas State Department of Education website at www.ksde.org.

About Spring Hill Schools
Spring Hill Schools is dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence in education. Serving more than 4,000 students across ten schools, the district prioritizes preparing learners for a bright and prosperous future.

Media Contact:

Stephanie Neiger

Director of Communications and Engagement

Spring Hill Schools, USD 230

neigerste@usd230.org

www.usd230.org