“There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they have gone, the light remains.”
Short Video Introduction
Memories
Teaching Award
The Lauren Kessen Champion Teacher Award was established by Principal Arwyn Wild in 2015 in recognition of Lauren’s contribution and dedication to the teaching profession. The award, designed and written by Lauren’s colleagues Michelle Cleveland and Lauryn Wild, is presented to an outstanding Serrano Middle School teacher who exemplifies Lauren’s passion for education and commitment to improving the lives of her students.
Serrano Middle School, in San Bernadino, California, was one of the most socially and academically troubled schools in the United States during Lauren’s tenure as an eighth grade reading teacher. In addition to classroom teaching, Lauren developed professional curriculum and served as a master teacher and coach.
The Lauren Kessen Champion Teacher Award has been presented annually since 2015, keeping her spirit alive while recognizing and inspiring the next generation of teachers.
Champion Teacher Award Recipients
2015: Mary Originals Chuckran
2016: Robbie Carlson
2017: Ruth Corrao-Harris
2018: Ryan Webb
2019: Christina Barthel
2020: Cesar Lopez
2021: Lisa Randall
2022: Oana Matei
2023: Giovanni Macias
2024: Mindy Jacobson
Visit Lauren
“Her absence is like the sky, spread over everything.”
~C.S. Lewis
Helping others in honor of Lauren
Lauren believed in supporting reading programs for children and adults; after-school programs for academically challenged, disadvantaged, special needs or immigrant children; shelters which provide tutoring or other educational support to resident children and adults; and educational initiatives for at-risk youth. Contributions have been made to the following organizations in Lauren’s memory:
- Serrano Middle School
- Communities in Schools
- Common Bond After School Programs
- Make-A-Wish Minnesota
- Every Meal