Kathleen Henckel

Her nurturing way with people and positive enthusiasm got her all the way to earning the coveted pink car as a Mary Kay consultant. But the call “to make a real difference in other people’s lives” led Kathleen Henckel, Clark’s Teacher of the Year, back to Texas State University in 2002 “to do more than sell pink,” proofread as an editorial assistant, adjust insurance claims or any other job she’d previously held.

“I set my goal to be an English teacher,” said Henckel, “so I took my father’s advice and began subbing while working on my teacher certification.”

In her first assignment as a long-term Latin sub at Clark, Henckel was already making a difference. “I was staying up until 3 a.m. just to learn it myself so I could teach the kids,” she said. Her determination paid off as student interest in the elective was renewed. An increase in Latin enrollment the following school year set the groundwork to build a strong program now recognized state-wide. Henckel was honored with The Principal’s Award for her dedication as a substitute teacher. The following year she joined Clark’s English department.

“Along with being an excellent English teacher, Mrs. Henckel spends many extra hours working with student council and the many community service projects they have on our campus as well as throughout the Clark community,” said principal Stanley Laing.

In her two years as sponsor, Mrs. Henckel has worked with student council members to extend a helping hand through donations as far away as Iraq and as near as within the Clark family. Students have also given food to the SAMM shelter, raised donations for Katrina victims, sponsored blood drives, and volunteered time for the Leukemia Foundation and the Roy Maas Youth Alternative Center, to name only a few of their altruistic activities.

“She sees the good in everybody,” said student Caitlin Lester of her teacher whose classroom is as inviting as the warmth of Henckel’s laughter.

“If your students know you honestly and genuinely care for them, they will make their best effort for your approval in the classroom,” said Henckel, noting that there’s no magic to successful teaching. The key is simple, she explained, “The whole climate you create is what makes a difference.”