North Kansas City, October 7, 2025
News Summary
Matt Barrows, a physical education teacher at Rising Hill Elementary in North Kansas City, has been honored as the Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators. This award highlights Barrows’ commitment to instilling a love for movement in his students and promoting an active lifestyle. His program is celebrated for innovative teaching methods and achieving a 100% participation rate, reflecting his dedication to educational excellence and inclusivity in physical education.
North Kansas City has recognized one of its own educators, Matt Barrows, as the 2025 Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE). This prestigious award places Barrows at the top of his field, identifying him as the best PE teacher in Missouri and also the winner from the Kansas City district.
Matt Barrows serves as a physical education teacher at Rising Hill Elementary, where he focuses on instilling a lifelong love for movement in his students. Barrows believes his role extends beyond simply teaching games or perfecting skills; he aims to inspire his students to pursue an active lifestyle throughout their lives.
This honor highlights Barrows’ commitment to educational excellence, recognizing educators who go above and beyond the standard curricular expectations in their teaching methods. The North Kansas City School District credits Barrows’ program for its standards-based instruction, innovative teaching methods, and a strong advocacy for physical education.
Principal Rena Hawkins commended Barrows for embodying the theme “lead with heart,” emphasizing his dedication to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes all students. His effectiveness as a teacher is underscored by achieving a remarkable 100% participation rate in his classes, indicating the broad engagement he fosters among his students.
Barrows advocates for the importance of quality physical education, asserting that it plays a crucial role in developing healthy bodies and enhancing overall happiness in students’ lives. The MOSHAPE award not only honors Barrows but also serves to emphasize the significance of dedicated educators in promoting an active lifestyle across Missouri.
The announcement of this recognition comes at a time when health and physical education are increasingly seen as vital components of a holistic educational experience. As schools and communities face challenges related to youth fitness and health, the work of teachers like Barrows becomes even more critical.
Background on MOSHAPE
The Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE) is an organization focused on promoting quality health and physical education within the state. The awards it bestows recognize exceptional educators who have made significant contributions to their roles, encouraging innovative pedagogical approaches and a strong commitment to student engagement.
Importance of Physical Education
Physical education is essential in schools as it fosters not just physical fitness, but also mental well-being, social skills, and personal development. Engaging in physical activities can lead to improved academic performance and life satisfaction for students.
Summary
Barrows’ recognition represents not only his personal achievements but also the broader commitment of North Kansas City Schools to enhancing physical education, promoting student health, and ensuring inclusive practices in schools. With dedicated educators like Barrows, the path to a healthier future for students remains hopeful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Matt Barrows?
Matt Barrows is a physical education teacher at Rising Hill Elementary in North Kansas City.
What award has Matt Barrows received?
Matt Barrows has been awarded the 2025 Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE).
What does this award recognize?
This honor recognizes Barrows as the best PE teacher in Missouri and also as the Kansas City district winner.
What is the significance of Barrows’ teaching approach?
Barrows believes his greatest impact is igniting a lifelong love for movement in his students beyond just winning games or perfecting drills.
How does North Kansas City School District view Barrows’ program?
According to the North Kansas City School District, Barrows’ program is distinguished by standards-based instruction, innovative teaching methods, and strong advocacy for physical education.
What participation rate does Barrows achieve in his classes?
Barrows has achieved a remarkable 100% participation rate in his classes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Fox 4 KC: North Kansas City Schools PE Teacher Named Best in Missouri
- Kansas City Star: Local News Article
- KCTV5: Accusations Against PE Teacher
- Kansas City Star: Another Local News Article
- Wikipedia: Physical Education
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
