We first met Mrs. Close during our kinder year at Bozarth while we roamed the halls helping wherever we were needed and even subbing in different classrooms. From the very beginning, she was incredibly personable and always led with empathy. We were so excited to hear she would be teaching the following year — and my son Phoenix was lucky enough to be placed in her 1st grade class. She has been nothing short of amazing with her students: caring, patient, determined, and truly attentive to each child’s needs. Phoenix has always said she is his favorite teacher — and for my strong-willed son, that says everything. We were incredibly fortunate that he ended up in her class again this year! Mrs. Close genuinely cares. She cares about her students’ futures, their well-being, their progress, and creating an inclusive environment where every child feels seen and valued. She leads with heart and love for her kids every single day. On top of her daily teaching responsibilities, she builds the culture for her peers and staff, by leading activities and events! That’s a lot to manage, but she does it with her heart and soul. I truly wish all educators were like her, and this is exactly why she deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.