KC Reporter

Alyse Weatherford, a teacher at Meadowbrook Elementary School in Gladstone, Missouri, has been recognized as the Blue KC Sporting Samaritan for September. Weatherford’s commitment to education began early, inspired by her mother who was also a kindergarten teacher. Her experiences helping in her mother's classroom influenced her decision to pursue teaching and help children enjoy school.

“My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child can succeed when given the right tools, encouragement, and opportunities,” said Weatherford. “My students inspire me daily with their resilience, curiosity and joy. I celebrate every small victory with them because those moments build confidence and open the door to even greater growth.”

Weatherford has worked at Meadowbrook for seven years. This fall she started a new role as a cross-categorical special education teacher supporting students with specialized needs. Previously, she served as a resource education teacher. She continues to focus on creating an environment where students feel valued and supported.

“The best part of teaching at Meadowbrook is the incredible sense of community,” said Weatherford. “They’re supportive, engaging and invested in their children’s learning. Together, teachers, staff, and families work hand-in-hand to ensure our school is a place where every child feels safe, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.”

Family advice plays an important role in Weatherford’s approach to teaching. Her father once told her that perceptions shape reality and that intentions should be demonstrated through daily actions.

“His advice has shaped how I approach both teaching and life,” said Weatherford. “Whether it’s offering a kind word, showing patience in a difficult moment, or stepping in to help someone when they’re struggling, I’ve learned that even small actions can create a powerful, positive impact. We have the ability to influence how others experience the world around them, and I see it as both a privilege and a responsibility to do so in a way that builds trust, kindness, and connection.”

Weatherford works to instill confidence in her students despite any challenges they may face.

“I believe that students learn best when they feel safe, valued and truly seen for who they are,” said Weatherford. “To create that environment, I focus on building strong relationships first. I take the time to get to know my students, their interests, their strengths, and their challenges so they know they matter as individuals. In my classroom being welcomed is more than a philosophy; it’s something students experience every day.”

She emphasizes clear standards while providing support.

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

Her dedication has been recognized by colleagues and family members.

“Alyse has consistently shown an incredible level of compassion and care towards her students going above and beyond her regular duties to ensure that they are well taken care of and continuously supported,” said Chris Weatherford Alyse's nominator and father.“Despite the rigorous demands of her profession she consistently puts in long hours before and after school devoting extra time and effort to ensure that her students receive the attention and assistance necessary for their development.”

“We’re all impressed by Alyse’s compassion patience,and determination to helping educate those in our community who need extra guidance,” said Jenny Housley Blue KC Senior Vice Presidentand Chief Revenue Officer.“The loveand appreciation she continually shows toward her students is inspiringand sets an example for future educators to learn from.”

“At the end ofthe day,I want each childto leave my classroom knowingtheyare loved capable,and partofacommunitythat believes inthem,”saidWeatherford.“That’swhatdrivesmeeverysingledayas an educator.”

The Blue KC Sporting Samaritan program recognizes teachersandstudents makinga significant impactinKansasCityand encouragesfans tonominate outstanding individuals online at https://www.BlueKC.com/NominateSportingSamaritans . The initiativeis ajoint effortbyBlue CrossandBlue ShieldofKansas City (Blue KC)andsporting Kansas Citytohonor those inspiringpositivechangeinschoolsandcommunities.