Dedicated educators do more than cover a curriculum—they inspire students to see learning as an adventure and empower them to lead. For the Cadet Senior Master Sergeants and AFJROTC cadets at Farmington High School, Sgt. Carrie Hinson has long been that guiding force. Now, her impact is being recognized across the state.

Sgt. Hinson was recently honored with the prestigious Missouri DeMolay Teacher of the Year Award after being nominated by Farmington High School junior Cayden Elkins.

The Teacher of the Year honor is awarded to an educator who consistently goes above and beyond the standard call of duty. Beyond teaching coursework, recipients are recognized for inspiring young people, fostering a genuine enthusiasm for education, and making the classroom an engaging, adventurous place to grow.

"Knowing this recognition came completely out of the blue means more to me because it reminds me that people are always watching, not for perfection, but for how you treat others", said Hinson. "Teaching wasn't my original career, the Air Force was, so I simply try to be genuine, honest, and use those experiences to show people they matter and are valued."

A Century-Old Legacy of Leadership

Receiving an award backed by Missouri DeMolay carries special significance. Founded in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1919, DeMolay is an international youth leadership organization for young men aged 12 to 21. For over a century, the organization has focused on building strong character, leadership skills, civic responsibility, and mutual respect.

Because DeMolay places leadership and mentorship at the core of its mission, its Teacher of the Year award highlights educators who actively build those same character traits in the next generation.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As an Air Force JROTC instructor at FHS, Sgt. Hinson works daily with students to develop discipline, citizenship, and self-confidence. Colleagues and students alike highlight her ability to make lessons memorable, instilling a sense of purpose and curiosity in her cadets.

For Farmington High School Principal Jamie LaMonds, those qualities describe Carrie Hinson perfectly:

"Sgt. Hinson is deserving of this recognition because her commitment to students extends far beyond the expectations of her role. She does not view her position in our AFJROTC program or at Farmington High School as simply a job—she sees it as a calling. She sets high expectations, holds students accountable with compassion and consistency, and inspires them to strive for excellence. Through her military background and life experiences, she broadens our students' perspectives and helps them see the many opportunities available to them beyond high school. We are incredibly fortunate to have Sgt. Hinson as part of our FHS family. Her contagious smile, unwavering positivity, and genuine care for others make our school a better place every single day."

This is not the first time FHS and Sgt. Carrie Hinson have been honored. Under Hinson's direction, Farmington High School JROTC Cadets were previously recognized and awarded the Outstanding Organization Award for the Academic Year in 2023-2024.

Thanks to the nomination by Cayden Elkins, Sgt. Hinson’s dedication to Farmington's youth now stands as a model for educators statewide.

Congratulations to Sgt. Carrie Hinson on this well-deserved state recognition!