“I became a teacher because I wanted to have an impact on people and specifically students,” Kushmaul said. “I wanted to help them realize their potential for their future.”
RELATED: Students, Springfield police develop relationships with baseball
Kushmaul was named one of four recipients of the Excellence In Teaching Award for the 2016-2017 school year, which is sponsored by the Springfield News-Sun, Springfield Rotary Club, Ohio Edison, Springfield Foundation and Chamber of Greater Springfield.
The teachers will receive their recognition on March 20. The award is presented to Clark County teachers nominated by their colleagues and students.
While teaching students is her passion, Kushmaul said she has also learned a lot while doing so.
DETAILS: Springfield City Schools won’t address overcrowding for 2017
“I feel like learning from the students helps me be a better teacher,” she said. “The staff that work here we work so well as a team, we have so much support from our team.”
Kushmaul was nominated by fellow Hayward teacher Mindy Rigel, who said Kushmaul is deserving of the award.
“She inspires me to be a better teacher,” Rigel said. “She comes in with a positive attitude and she is just terrific with the kiddos.”
MORE: Springfield High Marching Band performs at Peach Bowl parade
Kushmaul also received praise by current and former students who wrote letters in support of her winning the award. She said knowing that she made an impact on students and that they would write letters and come visit her after they leave the school is touching.
“I am starting to have my high schoolers come back to me and talk to me about what scholarships they have applied for or how they are passing a class that they were having trouble with,” she said. “They are finding success. Seeing that they are moving on and growing into adults is amazing.”
About this series
The Springfield News-Sun will profile four Clark County teachers who have been recognized with the Excellence in Teaching Awards for the 2016-2017 school year, continuing through Wednesday.
About the Author