If children are the future, then public school teachers are the key to ensuring we’re in good hands. Social studies teacher Colleen Chmelik at Altoona Middle School is doing an excellent job, placing once again in this category — this year as No. 1. Coming in second is Emily Willems, fourth grade teacher at Manz Elementary School, who gets her students involved in school activities like community kindness challenges. And in third place, P.E. teacher Brady Hetke in Cadott makes gym class fun again. To all our local educators, thank you for all you do! —Amanda Polden