Horace Mann proud to honor West Virginia Teacher of the Year and School Service Personnel of the Year

Horace Mann agent Ethan Poole recognizes two excellent educators.

CHARLESTON, W. Va., September 15, 2021 - Horace Mann agent Ethan Poole recognized Brian Casto of Milton Middle School in Cabell County as West Virginia's 2022 Teacher of the Year and Katherine Miller of Wayne High School in Wayne County as West Virginia’s School Service Personnel of the Year at a ceremony on Tuesday. Horace Mann, a financial services company focused on providing educators with insurance and retirement solutions, has long been a sponsor of West Virginia's Teacher of the Year program.

"Brian Casto is a dedicated educator who knows how to engage his students,” said Poole about the 13-year education veteran. “He makes learning about West Virginia’s history fun by producing animated videos that preserve the history and culture of the state.”

Casto also serves on Milton Middle School’s leadership team and is the West Virginia Quiz Bowl Coach. He received a $5,000 award from Horace Mann.

Miller is cafeteria manager for Wayne High School in Wayne County, a role she’s enjoyed for 19 years.

“We know making sure students have the opportunity to eat nutritious meals makes a difference in how they learn. Katherine has been a pillar of support for her students by implementing a meal pickup program and making meals for sports teams,” said Poole. “It’s clear that Katherine makes a difference for the students of Wayne High School.”

Miller received an award of $2,500 from Horace Mann.

Both Casto and Miller were recognized at the Celebration of Excellence ceremony in Charleston.

About Horace Mann

Horace Mann Educators Corporation is the largest financial services company focused on helping America's educators and others who serve the community achieve lifelong financial success. The company offers individual and group insurance and financial solutions tailored to the needs of the educator community. Founded by Educators for Educators® in 1945, the company is headquartered in Springfield, Illinois.