Karen Cook has had nearly a 30 year career in elementary education, during which time she was nominated as Teacher of the Year. Prior to teaching, Cook worked for Western Insurance as a Computer Programmer and Program Analyst.

Mrs. Cook is an alumna of Fort Scott High School and was the co-Salutatorian her graduating year. She earned her associate of arts in general studies from Fort Scott Community College in 1973 and was the co-Valedictorian that same year. After graduating from FSCC, Cook married and started a family with her husband, Garry Cook. They have two children, Trisha Whitehead and Christopher Cook. After eleven years, Cook chose to return to school in pursuit of a teaching degree. In May 1986, Karen Cook completed her goal by graduating Summa Cum Laude from Pittsburg State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education.

Mrs. Cook is heavily involved in community service by being a Mother Advisor for the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, serving on the KNEA Scholarship Committee, membership in the Order of Eastern Star, with which she has held numerous offices including Worthy Matron, and participation in St. John’s United Methodist Church as the Sunday School Superintendent and Lay Leader