Each year, Great Bend USD 428 proudly recognizes an elementary and secondary teacher as the district’s Teachers of the Year. These outstanding educators are then nominated to represent the district in the Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).

Nominated by their colleagues and reviewed by a panel of past USD 428 KTOY honorees and district administrators, these teachers are selected for their exceptional instructional skills, commitment to student success, and dedication to the teaching profession.

The 2026 USD 428 Teachers of the Year exemplify the district’s mission to inspire excellence in the classroom and beyond. Their leadership, compassion, and creativity make a lasting impact on students, families, and the Great Bend community.

Lori McLeland and Mandy Stansfield were surprised at school this week with the honor and will move forward to represent USD 428 at the regional level of the Kansas Teacher of the Year program.

“Recognizing our Teachers of the Year is one of the highlights of the school year,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 Superintendent. “They reflect the heart of what makes our schools special—educators who go above and beyond to make learning meaningful and to help every student succeed.” 

Lori McLeland, 2026 USD 428 Secondary Teacher of the Year

Lori McLeland is a 7th-grade English teacher at Great Bend Middle School, where she has dedicated 12 years to inspiring students through creativity, compassion, and a love of learning. Her engaging classroom activities—like exploring figurative language through idioms and art—blend imagination with literacy skills, helping students connect meaning and expression.

Beyond the classroom, McLeland has been deeply involved in professional development and mentorship across USD 428. She has served as a Building Leadership Team (BLT) member for nine years, mentored new teachers, and presented literacy protocols and English Language endorsement materials at district events. Her professional growth includes attending the Capturing Kids’ Hearts Conference and MTSS Symposium, and she contributed to teacher education as a long-time member of the Sterling College Teacher Education Advisory Committee (2010–2022).

Active in her community, McLeland serves as a worship leader and Vacation Bible School coordinator at Ellinwood Community Church, where she also supports outreach efforts to seniors and those in need.

McLeland’s teaching philosophy centers on fostering a love for children, lifelong learning, compassion, and confidence. She strives to prepare her students to become responsible, contributing citizens—believing that education is the key to helping them achieve success in life.

Mandy Stansfield, 2026 USD 428 Elementary Teacher of the Year

Mandy Stansfield is a 5th-grade teacher at Riley Elementary School, where she has taught for 12 years. Known for her energetic and engaging classroom presence, Mandy brings subjects to life through enthusiastic instruction that keeps students captivated and excited about learning. Whether teaching math, social studies, or science, her lively approach inspires students to find joy and confidence in their education.

Beyond the classroom, Stansfield has made significant contributions to her school and district through leadership and mentorship. She has served as a mentor teacher for new staff, a member of the Curriculum Steering Committee, and a Process Champion for Capturing Kids’ Hearts.

Her commitment to fostering positive school culture extends to organizing Student Council, supporting family engagement events, and building community partnerships with local organizations and businesses. She also volunteers for causes such as The Ronald McDonald House and the Great Bend Fire Department’s Spaghetti Feed Fundraiser.

At the heart of Stansfield’s teaching philosophy is the belief that strong relationships form the foundation of effective teaching. She strives to ensure every student feels valued and understood, tailoring instruction to meet individual needs. Her greatest reward comes from seeing former students thrive and knowing she played a role in their success.