I believe the Presidential Award means you know how to reach kids. The group of people who have won this honor before me all exude what I believe is cutting-edge instruction. They know how students think and make sure every student in their classroom achieves. There is no greater mentor to me than my wife. I believe the strong relationships she forges with students in and out of the classroom are indicative of all awardees. I am proud to be a part of this special group of mentors!

Jon Konen Great Falls, MT | K-6, Science, 2010

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Jon Konen was hired as principal of Lincoln Elementary School in Great Falls, MT, in March 2011. In 2010, he was as an instructional coach. Prior to these experiences, he taught fifth grade from 2007 to 2010 at Morningside Elementary. From 2004 to 2007, he was a K - 12 principal in the Power School District in Power, MT. He has also taught second, fifth, and sixth grade in Montana and Alaska. As an elementary principal, Jon trains and supervises all teachers, kindergarten through sixth grade. He believes that forming relationships is the most important aspect in education. Creativity and innovation are two passions Jon strives for in his classrooms. He believes that both of these skills can be taught and nurtured by empowering students to reach their potential. Jon has presented sessions on teaching inquiry science, science notebooking, using science process skills in everyday instruction, and more. He published a Time for Kids magazine article on 99 tools for writing in 1999. Jon has a B.A. in elementary education from Montana State University and an M.A. in educational leadership from the University of Phoenix online. He is certified in elementary education and K - 12 educational leadership, and he is currently completing his National Board Certification in Early Adolescence in Science.

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