The Heart of Center Award recognizes a staff member who goes above and beyond to make a positive difference for students, colleagues, families, and the community. The March 2026 Heart of Center recipients are Morgan Westhoff, Math Teacher at Center Middle School, and Andre Allen, Head Custodian at Red Bridge Elementary School.
Morgan Westhoff exemplifies what it means to truly make a difference in the lives of students and families. Driven by a deep commitment to the Center community, she envisioned and launched the Giving Tree initiative to address student lunch debt. What began as a thoughtful idea quickly grew into a powerful, community-wide effort. Morgan organized and led the work, dedicating 10–15 hours each week from after Thanksgiving through the start of the new year, while engaging friends, families, staff, local businesses, and community members across the Kansas City area and beyond.
Beyond this extraordinary effort, Morgan is an exceptional educator and leader. She teaches with passion, consistency, and high expectations, greeting students at her door each day and creating an engaging, supportive learning environment. She leads her department with purpose and is always seeking ways to move CMS forward while supporting both students and staff.
Morgan Westhoff is more than a strong supporter, she is a driving force for good, a connector of people, and a shining example of what it means to embody the Heart of Center.
Andre Allen carries significant responsibility for maintaining the school, and when unexpected issues arise, he steps in without hesitation. His actions reflect a genuine commitment to the school and a strong sense of ownership in keeping it well maintained.
Andre is always on the move consistently helpful, proactive, and willing to go above and beyond to do what’s right. He is kind, dependable, and someone everyone appreciates. He has built strong relationships with all students, especially kindergarten students, who are always excited to see him.
Andre shows the steadfast attitude of working hard to accomplish the goal for a better environment for our students and staff. He also shows his love for the community working with LINC and being an established coach and setting an example of hard work and dedication to continue to improve daily.
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Westhoff and Mr. Allen, our March Heart of Center Award recipients. Center School District employees or community members are invited to nominate staff for the Heart of Center award.