When you’ve been in education for more than two decades, you learn how to adapt to various situations and can determine what works well in the classroom. For Chris Banks, a special education teacher at Plaza Middle School in Kansas City, Missouri, he’s been able to successfully master his skills, teaching methods and classroom structure to benefit countless students who have relied on him for assistance throughout their educational journey.
“I’m a dedicated educator with 20 years of experience serving students with specialized needs,” said Banks. “My students are curious, motivated and bring so much energy to the classroom. It’s what makes coming to work every day feel rewarding.”
A Kansas City native for his entire life, Banks obtained his bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University and his master’s degree from the University of Kansas. He’s a family man who is incredibly proud of his supportive wife and four children. The traits and characteristics he’s able to develop at home transition into the classroom where he passes that knowledge and understanding along to his students.
“I advise my students that everyone learns differently,” said Banks. “It’s not just okay that they learn differently, it’s valuable.”
While it’s difficult for Banks to identify a single moment that stands out throughout his career, he can reflect on the difference he’s made in his student’s lives and how he’s been a key influencer and role model in helping them grow and learn. His professionalism is continually on display, and he’s created memories that will last a lifetime.
“Professionally, my most proud accomplishments are the joyful moments of recognition created on a daily basis from all of the successes of my students, both big and small.” said Banks. “I believe my teaching style focuses on building positive relationships, promoting resiliency and fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.”
Growing up, Banks was once told “if you don’t know the answer, find someone who does”. This simple, yet powerful, advice has stayed with him throughout his two-decade stint as an educator in the Park Hill School District. His ability to strengthen relationships and provide solutions for his students has made him a staple within the local community.
“I believe that instilling standards with my students encourages them to stretch themselves beyond their own, or others, expectations,” said Banks.
“Chris has established a level of inclusion where all his students feel accepted, valued and part of the Plaza Middle School community,” said Banks’ nominator and 2024 Blue KC Sporting Samaritan, Kari Rowe. “He sets achievable expectations for his students' learning behaviors and helps their families to see their future opportunities in society. He has created learning opportunities to help them become more self-sufficient, and field trips that encourage independence. However, more importantly, he’s created a classroom where the kids love being there. His calm-natured teaching style, compassionate heart, collaboration with his co-workers and knowledge has given more to the district, the families, his teaching assistants and the students’ lives than any other professional could have brought to the program.”
“Chris’ dedication to special education shines brightly on his local community, and we’re proud to recognize him on his outstanding work over the past two decades,” said Jenny Housley, Blue KC Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer. “His patience, perseverance and determination to better the lives of his students make him an exceptional Blue KC Sporting Samaritan, and it’s an honor to highlight his career accomplishments.”
Fans are encouraged to nominate teachers and students who are making a positive impact on their schools and communities by using the form online at https://www.BlueKC.com/NominateSportingSamaritans.
Through the Blue KC Sporting Samaritan program, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) and Sporting KC are honoring students and teachers who are making a significant impact in Kansas City and inspiring others to do the same.