SEMO grads named regional Teachers of the Year

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Two Southeast Missouri State University graduates have been named 2025 Regional Teachers of the Year by the Missouri Department of Elementary Education.

Julie Hecht, a reading interventionist at Altenburg Public Schools, and Ashley Gettinger, a kindergarten teacher at Bloomsdale Elementary in Ste. Genevieve R-II School District, were recognized for their exceptional teaching and dedication to their students.

Hecht, who has taught for 28 years, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from SEMO. Gettinger, who has taught for eight years, received her bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees from SEMO.

Their principals praised their commitment to education and their ability to inspire students.

“These award-winning educators exemplify the difference SEMO graduates make in classrooms and communities across Missouri,” said Dr. Melissa Odegard, interim dean of the College of Education, Health, and Human Studies.