Photo by Samantha Davis: The Marshall Education Association selected early childhood teacher Carol Moorse (right) as the 20256-26 Teacher of the Year, and paraprofessional Rashell Thordson (left) as the Friend of Education. Both were recognized at Monday's Marshall school board meeting.

MARSHALL — Those who work closest with students often become pivotal role models and a strong resource in their lives growing up, which the Marshall Education Association (MEA) aims to honor each year.

For the 2025-26 school year, the MEA has selected early childhood teacher Carol Moorse as the Teacher of the Year, and paraprofessional Rashell Thordson has been named the Friend of Education.

Both Moorse and Thordson were recognized publicly at Monday’s school board meeting.

“On behalf of the MEA, it is my honor to recognize Carol Moorse and Rashell Thordson, whose years of dedication have made a lasting impact on Marshall students,” Rick Purrington said, the MEA president and a Marshall High School social studies teacher.

Moorse has served over two decades in early childhood education for the Marshall Public School District, and Thordson has worked as a paraprofessional for more than 30 years at the high school.

According to the MEA’s award for Moorse, “Carol creates a warm, nurturing classroom where every child feels safe, valued and excited to learn. Her patience, creativity and genuine care support students’ academic, social and emotional growth, while her strong commitment to inclusion ensures all learners feel welcomed and successful.”

In Thordson’s award, the MEA detailed that, “She is known for her professionalism, strong content knowledge, and the meaningful relationships she builds with students and staff. Rashell provides expert classroom support with patience and kindness, even in challenging situations.”

Also receiving a nomination for the Friend of Education award was Cade Baartman from the middle school, Karla Solis in early childhood education and Sue Strautz from Park Side Elementary.

Baartman works with special education students, Solis serves a supporting role for students and families, and Strautz is a guest teacher.

Other Teacher of the Year nominees included Alarie Bullerman of early childhood education, Neenah Eben from the high school, Brigitte Flinn of district-wide deaf and hard of hearing support, Nancy Thooft from the middle school, Deanna Suby from Southview Elementary, and both Katie Hjermstad and Emilly Hoppe from Park Side Elementary.

“The Marshall Education Association takes great pride in supporting and celebrating Marshall’s incredible educators,” Purrington noted. “We congratulate Carol Moorse and Rashell Thordson for their years of extraordinary service.”