In combination with Platte County High School’s “Winter Athletic/Activities Signing Ceremony” on January 29, the Platte County School District inducted three members to its Pirate Hall of Fame: Morgan (Johnson) Ayers, Raymond Mahowski (posthumously), and Lenora Miles. Retired PCR-3 teacher and coach, and class of 2016-17 Hall of Fame member, Jan Patterson, introduced each new inductee, as the Pirate Hall of Fame coordinator.
Morgan (Johnson) Ayers: Morgan (made a lasting impact on Platte County athletics, excelling in both volleyball and basketball. She was the school’s first All-State volleyball player, earning multiple honors and setting several records. However, basketball was her true passion, and she led the Lady Pirates to a school-record 29 wins and the program’s only Class 4A State Championship. Her outstanding senior year earned her the 2009 DiRenna Award, Missouri’s Miss Show-Me Basketball title, and several other prestigious accolades. She continued her success at the University of Iowa, setting records in blocks and career starts while earning All-Big Ten honors. After playing professionally in the Czech Republic, she pursued a medical career, completing medical school and a dual residency in internal medicine and pediatrics. Dedicated to global health, she served on medical mission trips in Rwanda, Kenya, Jamaica, and Nicaragua. Now, Dr. Morgan Ayers works as an internal medicine hospitalist and newborn nursery provider at Liberty Hospital, embodying the same leadership and dedication she displayed on the court.
Raymond Mahowski: Ray Mahowski dedicated 33 years to the Platte County R-3 School District, spending 30 of those years as the beloved principal of Barry School. He was a passionate educator who never gave up on any student, always striving to "add to their bowl of chips" rather than take away. Known for his kindness, humor, and deep care for his students, Ray brightened days with jokes and songs while ensuring every child felt valued. His impact extended beyond the school, earning him the Northland Chamber of Commerce’s Excellence in Service to Education award. Colleagues admired his leadership, students cherished his warmth, and parents respected his unwavering dedication. A true legend in the district, Ray made school a place of joy and encouragement for all. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched.
Lenora Miles: Lenora Miles dedicated over three decades to education, leaving a lasting impact on Platte County students. Ms. Miles taught English, yearbook, speech, public relations, AP Language and Composition, and ACT prep—offering after-school tutoring and workshops to help students succeed. She also found her calling as a theater sponsor, directing musicals and plays for 19 years. Her productions, including The Music Man, Hello Dolly, and Guys and Dolls, packed the North Gym of Platte County High School long before the Wilson Performing Arts Center existed. Her commitment earned her the Christa McAuliffe Pioneer in Education award, essentially the Northland Teacher of the Year. Even after retirement, Lenora gave back by serving for six years on the Platte County R-3 school board, and she continued shaping students’ futures by teaching AP Language and ACT prep at West Platte until 2024. Known for her optimism and encouragement, she inspired students to believe in themselves and their potential.
The Hall of Fame program was started by the PCHS Booster Club in 1999 as a way to recognize special volunteers, former teachers/employees, or anyone who has contributed significantly to the enhancement of the Platte County R-3 School District. Hall of Fame nominations are accepted year round, and the Hall of Fame inducts new members usually in the first quarter of the year. Click here for a list of all members, as well as to access nomination forms.
Mr. Gabe Middleton, PCR-3’s Activities Director also recognized 15 seniors who will be continuing their athletic or activities careers following graduation from PCHS:
- Kennady Carrel: Softball, Kansas City Kansas Community College
- Wes Chiddix: Baseball, Missouri Western
- Dayton Doll: Baseball, Missouri Western
- Ella Green: Golf, Rockhurst
- Maggie McBratney: Tennis, Webster
- Caden McGhee: Football, William Jewell
- Ava Moffitt: Volleyball, Nebraska Wesleyan
- Madison Nickell: Softball, Metropolitan Community College
- Karlee Riggs: Volleyball, Carroll
- Bronson Ryan: Baseball, Missouri Western
- Addy Schlake: Softball, North Dakota
- Darrell Smith: Football, Truman State
- Taylor Stambersky: Baseball, Missouri Western
- Lauren Stone: Basketball, Clarke
- Archie Wesley: Football, William Jewell
