Ohio Teacher Wins Top Honor After 20 Years of Literacy Work

Ashley Klier has spent 20 years watching the moment when struggling readers suddenly realize they can do it. Now, her work as a first grade reading intervention teacher at Ridgewood Elementary School has earned her the CORAS Outstanding Elementary Teacher award.

CORAS represents 101 school districts across Ohio's 32-county Appalachian region. The organization recognized Klier at a ceremony on February 10 for her exceptional work in early childhood literacy and her dedication to building strong reading foundations in young learners.

Klier started as a third grade classroom teacher and now serves as a Title I reading intervention specialist. In both roles, she has become known for something that goes beyond lesson plans: she meets students where they are and helps them move forward with confidence.

"Ashley meets every child where they are and helps them believe in themselves as learners," said Nate Carpenter, principal of Ridgewood Elementary School. "She builds strong relationships, creates a joyful learning environment and makes reading something students are excited about."

Her approach combines proven methods in phonics, fluency, and comprehension with something harder to teach: the ability to understand each child's strengths, challenges, and interests. Because she takes time to know their stories, her students feel safe enough to take risks and try new strategies.

Sunny's Take

One of Klier's most beloved traditions from her third grade years perfectly captures her teaching style. Every year, her class would write a book together about Gus the hamster and his classroom "adventures." Students collaborated on stories, practiced editing, and brought their creativity and humor to the project. The finished book became a keepsake celebrating both literacy and community.

"She understands that literacy is the foundation for all learning, and she brings that belief to life every day," said Mike Masloski, superintendent of Ridgewood Local Schools. "Ridgewood is incredibly proud of her and grateful for the impact she has had on generations of students."

After two decades of helping children discover the joy of reading, Klier now has a shelf full of those student-created books and a recognition that honors what she does best: making sure every child believes they can be a reader.