Chillicothe R-II is very fortunate to have amazing teachers on our staff and we’re thrilled to announce that a few of our outstanding educators will be recognized by Learning Forward Missouri at the March 1–3, 2026 Show-Me Professional Learning Conference in Springfield, Missouri.
Learning Forward Missouri sponsors awards that honor individuals, teams, schools, and districts that exemplify the organization’s mission, vision, and values. This year, they are honoring Chillicothe Elementary School's 4th Grade Team, which has been selected for the Outstanding Professional Learning Team Award, and our very own Canaan Fairley, who will receive the Outstanding Educator Award.
CES 4th Grade Team Named Outstanding Professional Learning Team
Year after year, students of CES' 4th Grade Team earn the highest proficiency rates in the district and consistently outperform state averages on MAP assessments. Recognized for their decade-long legacy of exceptional collaboration, instructional excellence, and student-centered practice, their success has also been celebrated through Missouri Gold Star School and National Blue Ribbon School honors.
Beyond results, the team exemplifies high-quality professional learning by blending veteran expertise with fresh perspectives to lead curriculum development, pilot innovative strategies, and ensure strong vertical alignment. They also remain deeply committed to the whole child—creating supportive learning environments and intentionally integrating social studies into core instruction.
In every way, this award-winning team reflects Learning Forward’s vision of educators working together to improve outcomes for every student, every day.
Canaan Fairley Receives Outstanding Educator Award
Few educators embody the spirit of the Outstanding Educator Award as fully as Canaan Fairley, a Chillicothe High School mathematics teacher whose work reflects innovation, consistency, and deep care for both students and colleagues.
Through a thoughtfully designed flipped classroom model, Mr. Fairley ensures learning is active, flexible, and uninterrupted. Students engage in hands-on problem-solving during class while accessing clear, on-demand instruction outside of it—supporting continued progress even when he is away coaching.
His commitment to clarity and access extends beyond his own classroom. Mr. Fairley is also a trusted district leader in professional learning, frequently supporting colleagues with effective digital instruction and classroom design. Driven not by recognition but by service, he strengthens student learning, empowers fellow educators, and models the very best of high-quality teaching and professional learning.
Chillicothe R-II is proud to celebrate these two outstanding recognitions - honors that reflect our district’s commitment to high-quality teaching and meaningful professional learning. Congratulations!