The 2019 school year marks Chemistry Teacher Donna Malkmus’ thirty-fourth year in the Francis Howell School District, her first year as the coach for FHN’s first curling team and her induction into the Howell of Fame. At 9 a.m. on Wednesday morning, Malkmus was escorted out of her room into the hallway where dozens of students, several Administration members and two district representatives were waiting to meet her.

“Donna really consistently goes above and beyond,” Head Principal Nathan Hostetler said. “She always goes in 100 percent, she never does anything halfway.”

While at FHN, Malkmus was named the District Teacher of the Year in 2012, the coordinator for the Regional Science Fair that is held at FHN annually and the Francis Howell Education Association Treasurer. In addition, she stands out in the halls with her crocs and lab coat combinations.

“It’s a real honor to get this and I appreciate the parents who support me and the faculty and admin members that submitted letters nominating me,” Malkmus said.

Surrounded by her colleagues and students, past and present, Malkmus was shocked and humbled by the outpouring of support and love from her #FHNcommunity. Malkmus teared up while speaking about her students, according to Malkmus, it’s her love for her students that has kept her involved in their activities.

“[I hope to] still be trying to support students, not just academically, but building lifelong relationships with them,” Malkmus said.