Celebrating the Middle School Educator of the Year
Kalispell, MT — Kalispell Education Foundation (KEF) - in partnership with Kalispell Public Schools (KPS) - is thrilled to announce that Susie Trefney is named the 2025 Middle School Educator of the Year!
Trefney was surprised with the honor during an all-school assembly celebrating Special Olympics participants on Wednesday, March 19. She received $1,000 for her classroom and $250 for personal use, courtesy of Stockman Bank.
This award, sponsored by KEF's generous partner Stockman Bank, honors Mrs. Trefney's 34 years as an exceptional educator. A beloved 7th-grade math teacher at Kalispell Middle School, Trefney has been recognized for her unwavering dedication to her students, her ability to make math accessible and enjoyable, and the deep impact she has had on the lives of those she teaches.
Trefney’s students describe her as an inspiring, compassionate, and dedicated educator who fosters confidence and a love of learning in her classroom. Many shared how she has transformed their perspective on math and provided support beyond academics, making a lasting impact on their lives.
Kalispell Middle School Principal Dallas Stuker praised Trefney’s contributions, stating:
"We are very fortunate to have Susie Trefney as part of the KMS family. Susie is not only a great teacher, but also one of the best humans I have been fortunate enough to know. Susie teaches far more than mathematics in her classroom. She models and teaches students how to be kind, empathetic, collaborative, and helpful. Through her interactions, she has an innate ability to bring out the best in others. She is a positive influence and has so selflessly made sacrifices to support and help others. She is one of a kind, a great educator, and an awesome person! When you think of someone who 'takes care' of kids, you think of Susie Trefney."One student wrote:
"Before I met Mrs. Trefney, math made no sense to me. The moment I walked into her classroom, everything changed. She greeted me with a warm smile and a kind heart, and I finally felt like I could succeed."With Trefney retiring at the end of this school year, this award serves as a fitting tribute to her years of service. The Kalispell Education Foundation and Kalispell Public Schools congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition and thanks Stockman Bank for their support in celebrating outstanding educators in our community.
ABOUT THIS AWARD
Each year, Kalispell Education Foundation (KEF) recognizes the teachers of the year at the Elementary, Middle, and High School levels as well as a Non-Teaching Employee of the Year. KEF thanks Stockman Bank for generously sponsoring this award and helping bring valuable and deserved attention to the dedication and hard work of our public school employees.
