Bernard teacher named a High Flying Teacher

Bernard social studies teacher named a High Flying Teacher by Y98
Posted on 09/14/2018
Bernard Y98

Christopher Ahrens, eighth grade social studies teacher at Bernard Middle School, received a lunch-time surprise on Sept. 14 by the Y98 Courtney and Company Morning Show. Courtney Landrum, Tim Convy and Kevin Berghoff with Y98 presented Ahrens with a High Flying Teacher award.

Ahrens was one of about 300 teachers nominated by Y98 listeners for the award. Ahrens' nomination comes from Kim Hasty, whose son, Ryan, was in his class last year.

“When you have a child with a disability, you long for someone to see beyond the ‘label,’ to see the real person,” Hasty wrote in her nomination. “Mr. 
Ahrens did that and more, seeing not only the person, but the potential in our son, Ryan. Ryan felt successful, confident, competent and valued in Mr. Ahrens class. He pulled Ryan out from the shadow of others and let him shine. He inspired Ryan. ‘He believed in me,’ Ryan said with tears. Each of us has one teacher we will always remember for how they impacted our lives and Mr. Ahrens was that teacher for Ryan.”

Bernard Principal Lori Sullivan organized the award ceremony, which happened in front of the entire eighth grade during lunch.

“It was great to see Mr. Ahrens receive this award,” Sullivan said. “He’s wonderful at building relationships with the kids in his classroom. He supports a positive culture at Bernard because he really cares about the kids.”

Click here to watch Mr. Ahrens’ surprise. 

Photo: Chris Ahrens and Y98 Crew.jpg
Left to Right: Kim Hasty, Chris Ahrens, Courtney Landrum (front), Kevin Berghoff, Tim Convy

The Mehlville School District strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment against employees, students or others on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity and other characteristics protected by law. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: contact Adam Smith at 314-467-5006 or [email protected].