2022 SV Impact Teacher of the Year

Gretchen Elliott  is a twenty-six year veteran of Kansas public schools and has served as a high school art teacher and middle school counselor at Smoky Valley USD 400 for the past sixteen years.  Gretchen provides leadership and instructional excellence for Smoky Valley High School and brings a strong passion for sharing her love of the fine arts to this work.  She has been critical to the outstanding quality of the Smoky Valley fine arts program due to her ability to inspire students and enhance their appreciation for all things creative and beautiful. 

Gretchen gives her time, energy and expertise to a number of Smoky Valley community efforts.  Her work with the Lindsborg Arts Council is well known as she has led youth art classes and projects and she supports the Lindsborg Dala Horse project as a contributing artist.  Gretchen has served for many years as a club and organization sponsor for various SVHS activity groups such as SADD, KAY, STUCO, and Art Club.  Additionally, Gretchen has mentored and coached many early career art teachers. 

USD 400 Smoky Valley is honored to recognize Gretchen Elliott as an IMPACT Teacher.  Her character and professionalism are key attributes of the type of educator that makes a difference for children every day in the