Judy Kettle, first-grade teacher at Wakarusa Valley school, works with her students Monday. Kettle, who has taught 32 years in the Lawrence school district, was selected 2007-2008 Lawrence Master Teacher.

It was a surprise that had Judy Kettle shaking for several minutes Monday morning.

The longtime Lawrence educator fought back tears and said she couldn’t “imagine a more meaningful morning” of her life.

“I teach with unbelievable people. So to be honored amidst these people means more than anything I could imagine,” said the Wakarusa Valley School first-grade teacher.

During an assembly at the school, 1104 E. 1000 Road, Kettle found out she was the 2007-2008 Lawrence Master Teacher.

Kettle, who has taught 32 years in the district, calmed down long enough to get a hug from Superintendent Randy Weseman, as her colleagues, friends, family members and the entire elementary school looked on.

The district annually selects one teacher to nominate for the Kansas Master Teacher program, sponsored by Emporia State University’s Teachers College. The university will announce seven winners in the spring.

Candidates are selected based on “outstanding professional service, teaching effectiveness, constructive service to the community and zeal in promoting the advancement of education.”

The Lawrence district will display Kettle’s photo at district headquarters, along with past winners.

Weseman lauded Kettle for her innovation in the classroom and her relationship with students, parents and colleagues.

Wakarusa Valley Principal Elias Espinoza called Kettle a “consummate teaching professional.”

“She is dedicated to her calling to teach,” Espinoza said.

Kettle also often has parents volunteer in the classroom, including Denise Snodgrass, who wrote a letter supporting her nomination.

“She gives her all to provide each child the best foundation possible. She is far more than just a teacher. She is a gift to her students … and to her community,” Snodgrass wrote.

Kettle taught kindergarten and first grade 11 years at Cordley School, 17 years at Wakarusa Valley, two years at Kennedy School and a year at Central Junior High School.