FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SALINA, Kan. — The Catholic Diocese of Salina has named Dawna Chapin, a teacher at St. Mary’s Grade School in Salina, the Kansas Association of Independent and Religious Schools (KAIRS) Distinguished Educator of the Year for the Salina Diocese. The announcement was made November 6, 2026, during the annual Salina Diocese Catholic Schools Teachers’ Institute at Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School.
The award recognizes Chapin’s dedication to students, mentorship of fellow educators, and faithful service to Catholic education. She has devoted more than 36 years to education, including 27 years at St. Mary’s, where she has taught third and fifth grades. Throughout her career, she has built strong relationships with students and adapted her instruction to meet their individual learning needs.
“Dawna exemplifies the heart of Catholic education. She helps children grow academically while making sure they feel known, valued, and loved,” said Geoff Andrews, superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Salina. “Her faithful service reminds us that teaching is a vocation, and that the daily example of a caring teacher can shape lives for generations. We are grateful to celebrate her and the difference she continues to make.”
St. Mary’s Principal Tym Bonilla nominated Chapin, highlighting her commitment to students and her influence as a mentor to educators joining the school.
“When new teachers join our school, I want them learning from someone who represents the kind of educator we hope they will become,” Bonilla wrote in his nomination. “Dawna is that person.”
Bonilla’s nomination describes Chapin as a consummate professional whose joy, kindness, and daily witness reflect her Catholic faith. Her approach to teaching emphasizes academic growth alongside the relationships and faith formation that help children flourish.
Chapin’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. She participates in the school’s enrichment program and Honors Choir, serves as a cantor at Mass, and supports First Communion and First Reconciliation celebrations. She also assists with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and gives generously of her time to parish activities.
Chapin will be honored at the annual KAIRS banquet in Topeka in February 2027.
About the Diocese of Salina: The Diocese of Salina oversees 15 Catholic schools in 12 communities across north-central and northwest Kansas, united by the mission, “Together, Let Us Be Disciples of Jesus on Mission.”
Media Contact:
Geoff Andrews
Superintendent of Schools
Catholic Diocese of Salina