It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! This amazing week is the perfect time to show love for Aurora Public Schools’ unstoppable and incomparable teachers. Their enthusiasm and imagination bring learning to life. Their passion and care make our classrooms a safe place where students feel like they belong. Their hard work and dedication ensure our future is filled with the next generation of barrier breakers. In honor of this week, we’re thrilled to highlight two of APS’ standout educators!
Gracie Binder
5th Grade Teacher, Kenton Elementary School
When did you know you wanted to be a teacher? Most people have that one teacher who stood out because they deeply cared. I always wanted to be that for students.
What’s your favorite part of teaching? I love teaching because I love helping students gain confidence in themselves and their academic skills. 5th grade is so fun to teach because with scaffolds (a teaching concept aimed to strengthen independent learning and subject mastery), every student can access rigorous, grade-level content. They feel so proud when they can accomplish the learning.
Why is it important for our students to have a caring and supportive teacher? Every person deserves to be cared for and supported. When kids come to Kenton, they get that experience. The full staff works together to make sure that every student has multiple safe relationships with adults. The individual relationships that I have with my students are why I love my job!
“She never thinks twice about helping us.” - Noah
“She’s very funny. She makes us laugh the whole day.” - Diego
“If we get stuck on a problem, she explains to us how it works.” - Iauna
Kory Jensen
4th Grade Teacher, Dalton Elementary School
Why is it important for students to have a caring teacher? Students thrive when they feel supported. I see myself as a pillar of encouragement from within their community—someone who believes in them, reminds them of their potential and helps them realize they’re capable of achieving far more than they ever imagined.
What’s your favorite part of teaching? Watching students fall in love with learning. Many come into my class saying they’re “not a math person.” But by the end of the year, they’ve gained confidence, developed a genuine interest and discovered how math connects to their everyday lives.
Why is teaching at APS important to you? I’ve taught in APS for 14 years. Not only am I an alum, but my dad, Ken, and grandpa, Dick, taught here too. I’m truly honored to carry on my family’s tradition. This community holds a special place in my heart. The dedication of the staff and the spirit of the students are what make APS such an incredible place to grow, learn and serve.
“He never gets mad at us when we make mistakes.” - Harrison
“He’s kind, helpful, nice and he helps us a lot.” - Alexis
“He’s very hardworking and he helps me all the time.” - Deronne