Two local educators have been honored by Citizens Bank and their respective school districts for their outstanding dedication to students and their school communities.
Lindsey York, an elementary physical education teacher with Midland School District, and Jessica Beshears, a third-grade teacher at Batesville’s Eagle Mountain Elementary, were recently recognized by colleagues as exemplars of service in their fields. Both received Certificates of Excellence, $25 gift cards, and insulated tumblers during their districts’ respective school board meetings.
York was selected as October’s recipient of the “Citizens Bank Shine Like a Mustang Award,” which is given monthly to Midland staff members embodying the district’s values of perseverance and high-level learning. In addition to her physical education and coaching responsibilities, York has taken on significant academic support duties this year, providing targeted assistance to students needing extra help.
“Coach York has taken on additional responsibilities beyond P.E. and athletics,” a colleague wrote in a nomination letter. They praised her for leveraging relationships with students to help them succeed both in class and in extracurricular activities. Others noted her exceptional teamwork, highlighting her willingness to assist colleagues by filling in for duties or temporarily stepping into their classrooms when necessary.
In Batesville, Beshears was presented with the “Citizens Bank Above and Beyond Award,” a recognition that has been honoring district staff since 2012. This award highlights employees who contribute to the district’s mission of preparing students to meet future challenges. Colleagues applauded Beshears for fostering students’ academic and emotional growth with patience and persistence, particularly in difficult situations where behavioral issues arose.
Her peers also cited her resilience following a devastating classroom fire two years ago. Despite the setback, Beshears remained a constant source of stability and encouragement for her students. “She didn’t let that hardship get her down,” one colleague wrote in her nomination. “She pushed through this challenge and still showed up every day for her students with strength, passion, and love.”
The honors from Citizens Bank highlight a continued focus on celebrating educators who exceed expectations and make lasting impacts within their schools and communities.