GLADSTONE — Long before she had her own classroom, Alyse Weatherford knew her calling.

The special education teacher at Meadowbrook Elementary School spent her childhood in a world of learning, helping her mother, a kindergarten teacher, and absorbing the joy of education, according to a district press release.

It was in those cherished moments that a lifelong passion for teaching was born. It’s a passion she now shares with students in North Kansas City Schools.

Weatherford’s dedication to education has been recognized as she was named Sporting Kansas City’s Blue KC Sporting Samaritan for September. The honor, a partnership between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City and Sporting KC, highlights individuals who make a significant impact on their community.

Weatherford smiling while being surprise by students in a classroom.

Weatherford’s approach to teaching is deeply personal. She believes her mission is to not just educate minds but to also nurture hearts.

“My students inspire me daily with their resilience, curiosity and joy,” she told Sporting KC.

To foster that growth, she celebrates every small victory, knowing those moments build confidence and open the door to even greater progress.

For seven years, Weatherford has guided each student with open arms, providing the right tools, encouragement and opportunities they need to succeed.

“At the end of the day, I want each child to leave my classroom knowing they are loved, capable and part of a community that believes in them,” she adds.

This dedication is what makes her so effective. She creates a supportive environment where students feel welcome and capable.

“In my classroom, standards are not about pressure but about guidance,” she explained. “They give students a roadmap of what success looks like, while I provide the scaffolds, encouragement and tools they need to get there.”

Her commitment is evident to those around her. Weatherford’s father, who nominated her, said she consistently puts in long hours to ensure her students receive the attention they need.

“The love and appreciation she continually shows toward her students is inspiring and sets an example for future educators to learn from,” Housley said.