Garden City High School teacher Mark Shera Cruz has been named a Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) Semifinalist, a prestigious recognition that celebrates outstanding educators who go above and beyond in their service to students, colleagues, and the profession.
Mr. Cruz, a veteran science teacher, came to Garden City from the Philippines in 2008 to teach physics. Since then, he’s become known for his hands-on approach to science instruction, his genuine care for students, and his quiet leadership within the school. He currently teaches Physics and Human Anatomy & Physiology at Garden City High School, where he has made a lasting impact in the Trade and Health Academy.
“I was surprised when they called my name,” Cruz said, reflecting on his reaction to being selected. “To be honest, I wasn’t expecting to be chosen from among the ranks of the top-notch teachers in the state. Reading through the biographies of the other nominees made me feel small in comparison.”
Despite his humility, Cruz knows the recognition speaks to something larger. “This is a testimony to the work we do as teachers every single day to support our students,” he said. “It’s also a celebration of the profession. It feels good to know that people are noticing and valuing the work you do.”
Cruz’s classroom is filled with curiosity and connection. His lessons often begin with the phrase, “Tell me what you notice,” encouraging students to observe, reflect, and relate the material to their everyday lives. Whether students are building models, running experiments, or participating in a lab, they’re learning by doing, something Cruz believes makes the learning stick.
“What drives my passion for teaching is the future my students hold,” he said. “These students will soon be the leaders of our community. I want to inspire them to keep learning and chase their passions—whatever direction that takes them.”
Even when school is not in session, Mr. Cruz continues serving his students. He regularly partners with community leaders and educational institutions to expose students to opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. A lifelong learner himself, Cruz holds degrees from Roosevelt College in the Philippines and is currently enrolled in a post-baccalaureate program at the University of California, Berkeley.
His principal, Associate Principal Ryan Meng, described Cruz as a quiet leader who makes a deep impact. “Mark believes that all students can learn and works tirelessly to this end,” Meng said. “He meets students where they are and finds ways to bridge gaps. Whether it’s helping a struggling learner or challenging a high-achiever, he finds a way to connect.”
Mr. Meng recalled a recent example of Cruz going above and beyond: “He contacted me last summer asking for DMV information so he could help our new international teachers get their driver’s licenses. That speaks volumes. He’s not just an excellent educator, he’s a dependable colleague and a servant leader.”
In the classroom and beyond, Cruz models a commitment to professional growth that inspires others. “He spends his time outside of class continuing to learn and grow,” Meng said. “When he speaks up in staff meetings, people listen. His voice carries weight.”
The Kansas Teacher of the Year program is a statewide initiative sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education. Its mission is to recognize excellence in teaching while building a network of educators who can lead improvement efforts in schools and across the profession. Each year, regional committees review nominations and select six semifinalists—three elementary and three secondary teachers—from each of the state’s four congressional districts.
Human Resource Director Drew Thon sees Mr. Cruz’s recognition as a proud moment for the entire district. “It’s a tremendous honor, not just for Mr. Cruz, but for our entire community,” Thon said. “Mark is a phenomenal teacher, but he’s not alone. This recognition shines a light on the quality of instruction, leadership, and heart we see across our classrooms in Garden City.”
Thon added that celebrating outstanding teachers helps strengthen the profession. “We talk a lot about student success, and we should, but great teaching is the foundation of it all,” he said. “When we lift up teachers like Mr. Cruz, it inspires others and reminds the community just how meaningful and life-changing the work inside our classrooms really is.”
At the heart of it, Cruz hopes his students walk away with more than just knowledge of science. “I want them to look back and remember the hands-on experiences—doing labs, building projects—but more than anything, I want them to know I genuinely cared about their future.”