As part of their commitment to education and to celebrate teachers in the Renton School District, each month members of Rotary Club of Renton select a few teachers as Teacher of the Month.

April Teachers of the Month are:

Lilian Junsay

Pre-K Special Education Teacher at Meadow Crest Early Learning Center

Lilian Junsay began her college experience at California State University, East Bay, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies with a focus on childhood studies. She also attended the University of Nevada in Las Vegas to earn a Masters of Education in early childhood special education. This year is Junsay’s fourth year teaching in Renton.

Mary Teppner

Integrated Kindergarten Teacher at Talbot Hill Elementary

Mary Teppner attended the University of Puget Sound where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology with a minor in communications and a special education endorsement. She continued to earn a Masters in Teaching and earned her teaching certificate from City University. Before becoming a teacher, Teppner held a career as a dental assistant for 10 years. She has been teaching in Renton for nine years.

Kia Tonneslan

CTE Production Art Teacher at Secondary Learning Center

Kia Tonneslan earned an Associates of Applied Arts degree in graphic design from the Art Institute of Seattle, then earned a CTE teaching certificate from Central Washington University. Tonneslan spent 10 years as a graphic designer working on custom signs and vehicle graphics. She is currently in her third year teaching production art (visual communications, ceramics and yearbook) with the Renton School District.

As part of the recognition, teachers attend Rotary’s Teacher of the Month recognition luncheon held at the Maplewood Golf Course. Each teacher is introduced, makes a brief comment about the school and classroom, and receives $200 to be used for classroom supplies or instructional materials.