Mrs. Bates-Curriculum Director

Education:

• B.S. in Education from Southeast Missouri State University

  • • Major: Secondary Social Studies Education

    • Minor: Music

• Master's Degree in Secondary Administration from William Woods University

• 31 graduate hours in Curriculum and Instruction from Mizzou & SEMO

• Teaching History Graduate Certificate from Northwestern College- 18 Hours

• Instructional Leadership Certificate: Harvard Graduate School of Education

• Certifications: 5-9 Social Studies; 9-12 Social Studies; 9-12 Speech Communications; 9-12 Secondary Administration

Honors:

• 2018-2019: Regional Teacher of the Year Nominee

• 2022-2023: Regional Teacher of the Year Nominee

• 2023-2024: National Beta Distinguished Alumni Award

• 2024: McDonald's Outstanding Educator Award

• 2025: Missouri Scholars Academy- Teacher Appreciation Award 

Teaching Experience: 

Mrs. Bates began teaching social studies and speech/drama at Bernie High School in August 2004. Throughout her teaching career, Mrs. Bates has sponsored History Day, Model UN, Varsity & JV Quiz Bowl, the school play, History Club, the Speech & Debate team, Student Council, and Senior Beta. Most recently, she has taken on the role of Senior Advisor. Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, Mrs. Bates will be serving as the Bernie District Curriculum Director and Cadet Teaching Instructor.