For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters and Skyward recently announced the 2021 Skyward Central Wisconsin Teacher of the Year. Washington Elementary Fifth Grade Teacher Scott Johnson was named during a school-wide Zoom announcement held Jan. 22.

Johnson has been teaching in the Wisconsin Rapids School District for 21 years, at Woodside, Howe, and now Washington Elementary, teaching second, third, fifth, and sixth grade.

“Mr. Johnson is a teacher remembered by his students when they look back at their elementary school years,” said Washington Elementary Principal Kelly Schaeffer. “His ability to form relationships is top-notch and allows students to thrive academically and as individuals.  Mr. Johnson is an asset to our staff, always able to help or lighten the mood on a cloudy day.”

The Rafters and Skyward will hold the Eighth Annual Educator Appreciation Night at Witter Field on June 30. The first fans through the gate will receive a Mad Scientist Rosco bobblehead presented by Skyward. As part of the evening, the Rafters and Skyward will present Mr. Johnson with a bobblehead created in his likeness to commemorate the Teacher of the Year honor. The team will also display a Mr. Johnson bobblehead in Skyward’s Educator Wall of Fame at the ballpark. He will be recognized prior to the game by throwing out a first pitch. In addition, Johnson and the essay winners who nominated him will receive tickets to attend the game.

To facilitate the selection of the teacher, the Rafters held an essay contest for students K-12 across central Wisconsin during the months of October and November. All students were encouraged to nominate a teacher who they felt has made a positive impact on their life and write an essay on the reason this teacher deserved to be recognized.

The Rafters home opener is slated for May 31 at 6:35 p.m. against the Wisconsin Woodchucks.