Shawnee High School Principal Matthew Campbell (left to right), Teacher of the Year Daniel O’Keefe and Assistant Principal Ryann DiNatale.
School nurse Rachel Gotshall was named Educational Services Professional of the Year for 2026-’27.
A math teacher and a school nurse are Shawnee High School’s top instructors and professionals for the 2026-’27 school year.
Teacher of the Year
Dan O’Keefe has been with Shawnee since the 2018-’19 school year. He embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator, his nomination said, demonstrating care and compassion for his students, and actively participates in numerous clubs and activities. He also volunteers for almost every school event. In the classroom, O’Keefe demonstrates a passion for teaching, creating lessons and activities that ask students to apply mathematical and RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) principles to the real world. His true focus is on teaching students to take responsibility for their learning.
Outside of the classroom, O’Keefe is deeply involved in extracurricular activities. He serves as the voice of the Shawnee football team, helps organize and serves as “master of ceremony” for pep rallies, nominates students for People’s Choice awards, and participates in school fundraisers like the Kids for Wish Talent Show. O’Keefe is also head coach of girls tennis and assistant coach of boys’ swimming and lacrosse, and previously coached Esports.
“Dan embraces the deep-rooted culture and traditions of Shawnee and is always successful in connecting with students in ways which resonate with them in today’s world,” said Principal Matthew Campbell. “From his first day as a Renegade, Dan not only serves as a great role model for students, but is a consummate professional to work with, ensuring he always treats everyone with the utmost respect.”
Educational Services Professional of the Year
In her essential role as school nurse, Rachel Gotshall faces the complexities of health care in the post-COVID era with grace and remarkable efficiency, her nomination notes. She has been a nurse at Shawnee since November 2019.
Her top priority is, without question, the health and safety of students. She greets each one with a friendly smile, demonstrating patience and understanding for their diverse needs. Importantly, she connects with students outside of her office, building crucial trust and rapport. During emergency situations, Gotshall remains calm and acts swiftly, a testament to her professionalism and dedication.
Beyond her commitment to student care, Gotshall is a fierce advocate for staff and an actively engaged member of the larger school community. Her willingness to assist is evident; anyone can reach out to her with questions, and she responds promptly and helpfully. She fosters an environment where no question is too small, always taking the time to educate others as she provides support.
“Mrs. Gotshall manages the nurse’s office, in a school of over 1,300 students, in a way where every student in need receives thorough and immediate medical attention,” Campbell said, “and feels safe and cared for, regardless of unique health needs that they’re facing at any time during the school day.”
