School district: Cameron R-1

Grade level/subject: High School Librarian

Years teaching: Eleven years as the CHS Librarian, five years in the Fort Osage district (three years as an elementary computer lab para, two years as a special education para at the Career and Technology Center).

Years in MSTA: 10 years

Roles in MSTA: Current CTA President, previous CTA Building Representative

Why did you get involved with MSTA?

I joined MSTA to have liability insurance and legal coverage. I have stayed with MSTA because of the open communication we have with our Member Service Coordinators, the representation we have in Jefferson City and the networking opportunities at Leadership Conference and the Annual Convention. 

What was a career-related highlight in 2024?

A highlight of my year is being recognized as an MSTA Unsung Hero!

What is something your students would be surprised to learn about you?

I haven’t read every book in the library, and I don’t read all day.

Why Tonya was named an Unsung Hero:

"Tonya has been a great leader for MSTA in her district and has been very consistent in her approach to responding to district, staff, parents and student needs in a very contentious environment over the past two years," said MSTA Member Service Coordinator Kim Bielinski. "Her patience and desire for doing what’s best for students in her library and for the betterment of the environment of the staff in her district is always in the back of her mind. Big shout out to Tonya for her consistent leadership!!"