Dodge City, KS – The halls of Ross Elementary are celebrating “Rhino Pride” following the announcement that second-year teacher Audrey Phelps has been named a recipient of the 2026 Kansas Horizon Award.

The prestigious honor was delivered via a surprise phone call on January 7, when Kansas State Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson reached out to USD 443 Superintendent Dr. Jason Scheck to share the news.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), recognizes first year educators who perform in an exemplary manner during their first year in the classroom. Out of hundreds of eligible teachers across the state, only 32 are selected—four elementary and four secondary teachers from each of the state’s four congressional districts.

As a representative of Region 1, Ms. Phelps distinguishes herself as one of the top emerging educators in Western Kansas.

Ross Elementary Principal Jayne Diaz noted that the award confirms what students and staff at Ross already knew: Ms. Phelps is a transformative force in the classroom.

"Ross Elementary is incredibly proud of Audrey Phelps for being named a Kansas Horizon Award recipient," said Principal Diaz. "Audrey is so deserving of this recognition because of the thoughtful and strategic way she meets both the academic and emotional needs of her students. She creates a classroom where learning is engaging, joyful, and grounded in genuine care for each child. We are fortunate to have her shaping the hearts and minds of our Ross Rhinos every day."

The 32 recipients will be formally honored during a special luncheon on February 20, 2026, in Topeka. The ceremony takes place during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference.

By receiving this award, Ms. Phelps also gains membership into KEEN, an elite network of over 600 award-winning educators. This organization allows members to collaborate on best practices and serve as leaders in shaping the future of education throughout Kansas.

About USD 443 and the Horizon Award: The Horizon Award allows every school district in Kansas to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher. To be eligible, a teacher must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and demonstrated a level of skill and dedication that distinguishes them as outstanding among their peers.

Congratulations, Ms. Phelps, on this well-deserved achievement!