Every year, the Karen McClain Kindness Award is presented to a student who exhibits kindness, positivity and inclusiveness to both fellow students and staff during their time at Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS). Owen Sanders, a 2023-24 eighth grader, was recently honored with this heartfelt award.  

The award was created in memory of the late Karen McClain, an RGMS learning support teacher of 18 years, who passed away during the 2018-19 school year. Like Mr. Owen Sanders, Ms. McClain personified sunshine and kindness. Her qualities mirrored every expectation of a middle level educator. She consistently went out of her way to support her students; teaching, loving and caring for each one. She worked tirelessly to perfect her craft as a learning support teacher and never complained. The same kindness and positivity that share with her students was constantly displayed with her colleagues as well. Karen devoted her life to others, making them smile, supporting them and being the change she wanted to see in the world. 

Posted: June 13, 2024