Olathe ? A science teacher at Olathe East High School has been named the 2012 Kansas Teacher of the Year.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that Tiffany Richard was named Teacher of Year at ceremonies Saturday night in Wichita.

Richard, who was selected from eight finalists, has been a biology and chemistry teacher at Olathe East High School for eight years.

As Teacher of the Year, she receives a $4,000 cash award and other gifts.