Sharing Jesus with joy through the hearts of the youngest learners.
This week, Concordia University celebrates four alumni who have been recognized with 2026 South Wisconsin District Teacher of the Year Awards.
Their work reflects a deep commitment to excellence, compassion and purpose. Grounded in faith and called to serve, each educator lives out their vocation in the classroom, making a lasting difference in the lives entrusted to their care. This recognition is not only a professional honor, but also a testament to the way a Concordia education prepares graduates to lead and serve with integrity in the world.
Amber (Schauland) Curtis
3K teacher at Divine Redeemer in Hartland, Wis.
1998 alumna with a degree in Early Childhood Education
How has your understanding of teaching as a Christian vocation shaped the way you serve your students and school community each day?
Teaching in a Lutheran school allows me the unique opportunity to speak about Jesus each and every day. Every part of our school day revolves around Jesus. He is present in the relationships I have with the children, parents and coworkers. What a blessing it is to be surrounded by so many people who love Him.
Can you share a moment in your teaching journey when you clearly saw God at work through your classroom or relationships with students?
Each year, our 3K classes present a Christmas program to family members. The joy the little children have for Jesus radiates from them as they worship Him with their voices. Their faith shines through as they praise Him. They are always so proud to proclaim how much they love Jesus.
Looking back on your time at Concordia, what experiences or mentors most prepared you to teach with excellence, compassion and confidence in Christ?
Candy Seider and Val Keiper were amazing professors. We knew they were always cheering for us to succeed while at CUW and in our careers. Dr. J was also incredibly helpful when I was looking for my first job.
What encouragement would you offer to current Concordia students or future teachers who feel called to serve in Lutheran education today?
Listen to what God is telling you. Talk to teachers you know and ask them how they feel about serving God in Lutheran schools. I absolutely love working with Christian people who have become some of my closest friends.
What’s your favorite thing about CUW?
I met my husband at CUW and am still friends with my roommates. I have many friends who also attended CUW, and it is great to have that connection.
Additional 2026 SWD Teachers
Read about the teachers featured in this series:
- Autumn Bynum
- Kyle Jagler
- Libby MacGillis
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.