August 14, 2026 – Mexico Middle School physical education teacher Becca Bates has been named a 2026 Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE). Bates’ recognition is for the East Central District region, one of five in Missouri.

MOSHAPE recognizes teachers for outstanding contributions to health and physical education, including high-quality programming, effective teaching practices, and advocacy for the profession.

Bates began her teaching career at Mexico Middle School during the 2020-21 school year after graduating from college.

“I really love the relationships I get to make with not only my students and athletes, but my coworkers as well,” Bates said. “It’s rewarding to watch them grow, gain confidence and realize they are capable of more than they thought they were.”

Bates credits fellow PE teacher and mentor Coach Breneman with helping build a strong physical education program at MMS. Together, they focus on making fitness purposeful and enjoyable while introducing students to a variety of activities. This past year, that included adding floor hockey, which quickly became a student favorite.

“I’m really proud of the PE program that Coach Breneman and I have built,” Bates said. “We have worked to create an atmosphere where the kids enjoy being while making sure the games and activities are fitness-oriented and purposeful.”

Bates said receiving the statewide recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the work being done with students each day.  “When I found out, I felt honored and grateful,” Bates said. “It meant a lot to know that the work I put into my students and athletes, as well as our school community, was noticed and appreciated.”

Our district congratulates Coach Bates on this honor!