By Scout Nelson
Two experienced Nebraska educators have been recognized for their outstanding dedication to students and education. Shaun Hoover and Stacy Moore have been selected as recipients of the 2026 Freda Battey Distinguished Educator Award, presented by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's College of Education and Human Sciences.
The Freda Battey Distinguished Educator Award celebrates the life and career of Freda Drath Battey, a graduate of Nebraska’s Teachers College in 1923 and a longtime public-school teacher in Ashland, Nebraska. Battey’s family established the award in 1986 to recognize educators who make a lasting impact on students through teaching, leadership, and service. The award recognizes "excellence in teaching, coupled with recognition in other complementary education activities, such as counseling of students or initiation of student-oriented programs."
One of the 2026 recipients is Shaun Hoover, a Spanish teacher at Millard North High School. Hoover has devoted more than 20 years to education and student mentorship. After earning a bachelor’s degree in education and human sciences with a Spanish endorsement from the University of Nebraska in 2005, he began his teaching career and quickly became a valued member of the school community.
Over the years, Hoover has taken on several leadership responsibilities while continuing to teach students. Since 2017, he has served as the head of the World Language Department. In this role, he oversees faculty members and course development while teaching Spanish and Advanced Placement Spanish classes. His commitment to classroom learning and academic excellence continues to benefit students and fellow educators.
Beyond academics, Hoover actively supports students through extracurricular activities. He has coached football, wrestling, and soccer at both middle and high school levels. Through coaching and mentorship, he helps students develop confidence, discipline, and personal growth. His involvement outside the classroom strengthens relationships with students and creates additional opportunities for learning and guidance.
His impact on students is reflected in the praise he receives from school leaders. "His classroom is a place where students feel seen, supported and challenged to grow, not just as learners of Spanish, but as people," said Aaron Bearinger, Millard North principal. "His ability to build meaningful relationships with students is remarkable. He has a unique talent for encouraging young people to be the best version of themselves, often serving as a mentor, motivator, and role model."
The second recipient, Stacy Moore, has spent more than 30 years supporting students with disabilities and promoting inclusive education. Moore graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in special education. She began her career as a special education teacher and later accepted several teaching and leadership positions throughout her professional journey.
Since 2013, Moore has served as a special education coordinator for Scottsbluff Public Schools. In this position, she works closely with students, families, teachers, and community organizations to help students succeed both in school and after graduation. Her work focuses on creating positive learning experiences and ensuring students receive the support they need to reach their goals.
One of Moore’s most notable accomplishments is the development of the Peer Para Program. This initiative allows students interested in education careers to serve as peer paraeducators for students with disabilities. The program creates benefits for everyone involved. Student paraeducators gain experience working with individuals who have diverse abilities, while students with disabilities receive additional academic support, companionship, and encouragement.
The success of the Peer Para Program has extended beyond the local community. Moore has shared the program with educators across Nebraska and other locations through educational conferences. Her efforts continue to inspire schools looking for new ways to build inclusive learning environments and strengthen student support systems.
Her dedication to education has earned recognition from colleagues and community members. "Stacy Moore exemplifies a true heart for service," said Andreana Fertig-Marlow, Scottsbluff High School counselor. "Her dedication to educating students and their families about the disabilities they are working with is remarkable. She empowers them by providing the knowledge and resources necessary to advocate for themselves within the school and their communities."
Hoover and Moore were honored during a special award reception and luncheon held at the College of Education and Human Sciences on September 11, 2026. As part of the recognition, each recipient received an inscribed school bell and a cash award.
Photo Credit: University of Nebraska
Categories: Nebraska, Education