The Cass County Community Foundation today announced Jordan Helton as the 2024 recipient of the “Elizabeth A. Billman Excellence in Teaching Award” during the end of school year awards at Fairview Elementary School.
Deanna Crispen, CCCF President & CEO and Molly Long Sterrett, CCCF Chairman made the announcement and commended Helton for her perseverance, devotion to her students, colleagues, professional development, and community. Crispen said, “Elizabeth Billman was an educator, administrator, mentor and role model for young women and teachers. When we thought about ways to honor her legacy, this award, to encourage teachers early in their careers, was the result and we know Liz would be proud we are continuing her legacy through the award.”
Helton, who teaches second grade at Fairview was nominated by her principal, Chris Hess who said of her, “The first time I saw her presence in the classroom as a substitute teacher, I knew that she and I needed to have a serious conversation about her future. Simply put, this girl was born to be a teacher.”
Helton took the plunge into the transition to teaching program, all while being a wife and mother, raising her family, and battling a serious illness. None of these swayed her determination and desire for excellence as she received five excellence awards and the WGU Award for Professional Leadership,
Jordan has just completed her third year at Fairview and serves on the Fairview and LCSC academic committees. She is highly respected by her colleagues, parents, and students for excellence in the classroom and servant’s heart.
The excellence in teaching award was established in 2021to honor the long legacy of Billman. Elizabeth had served faithfully on the Board of Directors of the Cass County Community Foundation for a period of 16 years, serving two terms as Chairman of the Board of Directors and was on the Board of Directors at the time of her passing.
Mrs. Billman retired as principal at Thompson Elementary School, now known as Lewis Cass Elementary. She also taught in the Southeastern School Corporation, beginning her teaching career at Washington Township School. She was a member of the Lewis Cass Alumni Association where she received the Distinguished Service Award. Liz served in the Southeastern School Corporation for 38 years.
Helton was selected for the award from a pool of nominees submitted by elementary building principals of grades K-6 from all county schools, who most exemplify Elizabeth’s commitment to the students under her care, as well as embodies her thirst for knowledge, learning, and commitment to community service.
The award consists of a $500 stipend for the teacher and a commemorative plaque. A permanent plaque is on display at the CCCF Office to honor each year’s recipient.
For more information or if you have questions, please contact Deanna Crispen, President & CEO, Cass County Community Foundation Inc. 574-722-2200.
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