During the October Ste. Genevieve County R-II Board of Education meeting, district Gifted Teacher Ms. Crystal Koenig presented Major Philip Kwan with the Norine Kerber Parent of Gifted Award from the Gifted Association of Missouri (GAM).
Each year, GAM recognizes individuals who make exceptional contributions to gifted education, selecting one parent, one student, one veteran gifted teacher, and one new gifted teacher for statewide honors and scholarships.
Maj. Kwan was selected for his extraordinary dedication to gifted learners through mentorship, advocacy, and volunteerism. From supporting robotics and academic teams to securing classroom resources and contributing to district discussions on gifted education, he has consistently demonstrated enthusiasm, humility, and a deep commitment to student success.
“We are proud to see Major Kwan recognized at the state level for his continued support of our gifted students and programs,” Ms. Koenig said. “His leadership and service truly reflect the spirit of this award.”
The Norine Kerber Parent of Gifted Award is named in memory of Norine Kerber, a longtime volunteer who was recognized for her dedication to both the Gifted Association of Missouri and the National Association for Gifted Children.
Ms. Koenig, who has served on the GAM board for more than 12 years in a variety of leadership roles, worked with Ste. Genevieve Middle School Principal Dr. Scott Mercer to nominate Maj. Kwan for this recognition.