Two educators in Independence County were recently honored by Citizens Bank and their respective school districts for their exceptional dedication to students.
Sara Stumpenhaus, a school counselor at Batesville High School, and Dana Free, a high school English teacher in the Midland School District, were named recipients of September staff recognition awards during their districts’ monthly board meetings.
Stumpenhaus was awarded the September “Citizens Bank Above and Beyond Award,” a partnership project between Citizens Bank and the Batesville School District launched in 2012. According to district officials, the award recognizes staff who actively support the district's mission to empower students. Colleagues praised Stumpenhaus for her work managing student schedules, coordinating concurrent enrollment opportunities with the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, and guiding students on future career paths. Her work impacts more than 950 high school students, and peers noted she often puts in long hours beyond the school day to ensure students' needs are met.
In the Midland School District, Dana Free received the September “Shine Like a Mustang Award,” an initiative of Citizens Bank and the district that celebrates staff who fulfill the district’s vision of engagement and resilience. Peers highlighted Free’s dedication to student success and pointed to the extra time she commits to classroom preparation and individualized support for her students. Her actions, they said, make her a role model among colleagues and students alike.
Both awards rely on peer nominations from school district staff. As part of the honors, Stumpenhaus and Free received a Certificate of Excellence, a $25 gift card, and an insulated tumbler from Citizens Bank.
The recognition programs, officials noted, aim to spotlight the outstanding work done by local educators to inspire student growth and achievement.