Ashley Stevens, a second grade teacher at Morningside STEM Elementary School
"Ashley is an outstanding teacher who consistently demonstrates organization, dependability, and strong leadership. As a dedicated member of the Building Leadership Team (BLT), she serves as a thoughtful voice for her grade-level team, always advocating for what is best for students and staff. Ashley brings fresh ideas to the table, she genuinely cares about the success and well-being of both her students and colleagues, and she is always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it is needed. Her positive influence, collaborative spirit, and commitment to excellence make her truly deserving of this award. She has also been an absolutely wonderful mentor for her student teacher."
Lori Schlotfeldt, a title teacher at Hunt A+ Arts Elementary School
"Ms. Schlotfeldt is a longtime educator who is deeply passionate about supporting the success of all Hunt students. She works hard each day to ensure students receive the support they need to grow and thrive in their educational journey. As a Title teacher, she provides targeted instruction and encouragement that helps students build confidence and strengthen their academic skills. Ms. Schlotfeldt is a great team player who collaborates well with colleagues and consistently keeps the best interests of students at the center of her work.
She is always willing to step in and help wherever she is needed and approaches her work with a positive attitude. Her dedication to supporting both students and staff helps create a strong learning environment at Hunt. Ms. Schlotfeldt’s commitment and care make a lasting impact on the students she works with each day!"
Hannah Strand, a third grade teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School
"Mrs. Strand is a dedicated veteran teacher who consistently supports and uplifts those around her. As a leader among our new teachers, she is always willing to offer thoughtful advice, listen to concerns, and share strategies that make learning engaging and meaningful for all students.
She plays an active role in our school community through her involvement in multiple committees. In addition, Mrs. Strand serves as a mentor to a fellow third grade teacher, providing guidance, encouragement, and collaboration.
Mrs. Strand not only strives for the very best for her students, but she is equally committed to seeing all 3rd grade classrooms– and our entire building – thrive. Her leadership, positivity, and dedication make a lasting impact on both staff and students. Thank you, Mrs. Strand, for all you do! We are thankful for you at Loess Hills!"
Susan Kassing, a counseling secretary at West High School
Ms. Kassing's colleagues had this to say in her nominations: "Susan is a blessing to WHS. She is so kind, generous, and does a fabulous job helping kids and the counseling department. She is my right hand assistant when I am gone or out of the building. I rely on her to help kids who are sick, take meds, or just need a few minutes to chill. I think she is well deserving of this award! Ms. Kassing goes above and beyond for everyone in this building. She is always willing to help in any capacity for which she is asked. She is always in a great mood and so friendly! Not only is she willing to help, she has great ideas to share, which makes things we do here at West even better!"
Sarah O'Brien, a seventh grade math teacher at North Middle School
"Sarah brings an energy and enthusiasm to her classroom that makes learning both engaging and enjoyable for her students. She has a unique ability to make math fun, helping students feel confident and excited about concepts that can sometimes feel challenging.
Sarah creates incredibly well-designed and engaging PowerPoints that enhance her lessons and keep students actively involved. Her creativity and attention to detail make complex ideas clear and accessible, and her presentations truly elevate the learning experience.
Beyond her classroom, Sarah is a valuable contributor to our Math Professional Learning Community (PLC). She collaborates thoughtfully, shares ideas openly, and is always willing to support her colleagues. Most importantly, she builds strong, positive relationships with her students, creating a classroom environment where they feel supported, respected, and motivated to succeed. Sarah’s dedication, creativity, and commitment to both her students and her team make her incredibly deserving of this recognition!"
Erica Bonderson, Erica Van Horssen, Megan Casey, Angie Miller, the Title intervention team at Leeds Elementary School
"Mrs. Megan Casey, Ms. Erica Van Horssen, Ms. Angela Miller, and Mrs. Erica Bonderson play a vital role in the academic success of our students, and their work often happens quietly behind the scenes. From organizing and implementing interventions to managing the Reading Cart, collecting and analyzing student data, and completing ongoing progress monitoring, their commitment to ensuring every child receives the support they need is truly outstanding.
In addition to their daily responsibilities, this team continually goes above and beyond to support the entire building. They have helped enter student data into Panorama, assisted grade level teams with materials such as printing cursive resources for second grade, and supported staff by preparing conference materials for families. They have also stepped in to progress monitor students they may not regularly work with, pulled additional students when needed, and quickly organized intervention groups to ensure students receive support without delay.
The Title team has consistently demonstrated a willingness to pitch in wherever help is needed. Their flexibility, teamwork, and commitment to student success have made a tremendous impact on both our students and staff. The work they do does not always receive the spotlight, but it is essential to the strong academic foundation we strive to build at Leeds Elementary.
Thank you for your hard work, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to our students. Your efforts truly make Leeds a better place for everyone!"
Emily Fahrendholz, a sixth grade social studies teacher at East Middle School
"Ms. Fahrendholz consistently goes above and beyond each day to build strong, meaningful relationships with her students, creating a classroom environment where students feel supported and valued. She thoughtfully designs her lessons to meet students where they are academically while also providing opportunities to extend their learning and challenge them to grow. In addition to the work she does in her classroom, Ms. Fahrendholz is a dedicated team player. She actively contributes to her team and PLC, collaborating with colleagues, sharing ideas, and working together to support student success. Her positive attitude, commitment to students, and willingness to support those around her make her a valuable member of our staff and very deserving of this recognition."
TaRae Gardner, an ELL teacher at West Middle School
"TaRae's impact on student learning—especially in language acquisition—is remarkable. She works tirelessly to ensure every ELL student receives the support, encouragement, and instruction needed to make meaningful progress. Her leadership and organization during the ELPA testing season have been invaluable and deserve special recognition.
TaRae is also a strong advocate for her colleagues. Through her active involvement in the teacher’s union, she provides clarity, support, and encouragement during challenging and uncertain times. Her steady presence, dedication, and commitment to both students and staff make her an essential part of the West Middle School community."
Mike Whitlock, a fifth grade dual language teacher at Irving Dual Language Elementary School
"Mr. Whitlock consistently demonstrates a deep passion for teaching and learning. He inspires students from all backgrounds to dream and work hard to achieve their dreams. He works tirelessly to make sure each student feels seen, valued, and respected. Current and past students know they have an advocate in him. They know Mr. Whitlock stands up to what is right and advocates fiercely for colleagues and students. He leads with integrity, compassion, and empathy. He truly represents the very best of the teaching profession."
Emily Cole, a music teacher at Bryant Elementary School
"Emily is a keystone member of our Bryant Elementary Staff. She is a teacher leader who not only goes above and beyond in her music classroom, but also as a colleague to the rest of the staff. She supports other adults and students in endeavors ranging from Attendance Matters Celebrations to Student Council activities. Even more, Mrs. Cole facilitates impactful changes for our school community as a Building Leadership Team (BLT) member and inspires a love for the Arts through her work with Fine Arts Week. We appreciate you, Mrs. Cole!"
Sandra Tounjian, a teacher at East High School
"Sandra is amazing for many reasons, not only is she great at teaching, she also is fantastic at building relationships with both students and staff. She always makes an effort to attend performances or games for her students. She is always also available to students when they might need her. Sandra has worked hard throughout the year to be the best teacher she can be. As a first year teacher she is killing it! Congrats!"
Ann Baker, a long-term substitute teacher at Riverside Elementary School
"Mrs. Baker has made a meaningful impact on our school community through her kindness, compassion, and dedication to our students these last few months!
She consistently goes above and beyond to build strong, positive relationships with students, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where every child feels valued. She helps out with duties and has been a team player at Riverside! Mrs. Baker’s caring nature and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed. She is truly loved and appreciated by both students and staff across the entire school. We are so grateful for the heart she brings to her work each day.
Congratulations, Mrs. Baker, and thank you for all that you do!"
Oneyda Vasquez, a member of the District's Food Service department
"Oney joined the foodservice team working as a server in the elementary setting. She advanced her foodservice knowledge by transferring to the central kitchen in 2021. Oney is always learning and does what it takes to help the program be successful. Oney is willing to do what it takes to help meet the needs of the students by going to different schools to help serve when there is a shortage of staff. Keep up the good work Oney!"
Amber Minton, an office assistant at Spalding Park Environmental Sciences Elementary School
"Amber is a go-getter. There is no task too big or too small for her. She asks questions (regardless of if they sound silly), and she's detail oriented. Amber does a phenomenal job about making sure our staff, students, parents, and other community members feel welcomed and appreciated at Spalding! Her willingness to do whatever is necessary and to be a team player is much appreciated. Amber is truly one of a kind, and we are lucky to have her at Spalding Park!"
Heath Van Roekel, the chief mechanic in the District's Transportation department
"Heath not only maintains the fleet, but is always willing to set his normal duties aside to aid the transportation department by driving a route. His knowledge of the equipment, students, and routes makes him invaluable as he can fill in for any position at a moments notice. Thank you for all you do, Heath!"
Leigh Turner, an ECSE Teacher in the District's preschool program
"Leigh does an amazing job developing relationships with her students and her students’ families. Leigh is kind with her students and talks to them with compassion. She is able to set strong boundaries and expectations for them! Keep up the great work, Leigh! Your work does not go unnoticed!"
Kaitlyn Reynolds, a second grade teacher at Perry Creek Elementary School
"Kaitlyn consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. Kaitlyn has created a warm, welcoming classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and supported. She intentionally builds strong relationships with her students, fostering a positive classroom community rooted in respect, collaboration, and encouragement.
Kaitlyn’s positivity, creativity, and dedication make her an invaluable member of the Perry Creek team. We are truly fortunate to have her, and she is very deserving of being recognized as our Teacher of the Month for March."
Cinthia Hernandez, an attendance specialist at Perry Creek Elementary School
"Cinthia consistently goes above and beyond to support our students, staff, and families. Her efforts have made a noticeable impact and help reinforce the importance of being at school each day. Beyond her work with attendance, she is a dependable and positive presence in our building. She is always willing to step in and help wherever needed, demonstrating flexibility, teamwork, and a strong commitment to our school community. We are incredibly fortunate to have her on our team, and we appreciate the energy, passion, and heart she brings to her work every day."
Bill LePay, a building engineer at the Educational Service Center
"Bill LePay is a great member of the ESC team downtown. He always ensures that our building is in the best shape when dealing with infrastructure issues that are outside of his control. He handles issues with professionalism and pride in a job well done. It is an honor to have Bill as part of the ESC team!"
Brandi Wooster, a SPED instructional assistant at Nodland Elementary School
"Brandi consistently demonstrates compassion and a deep understanding of our students’ individual needs. She takes the time to know each student and approaches her work with patience, empathy, and professionalism. She carefully tracks accurate and reliable data to support student growth and ensure plans are being carried out effectively. Her attention to detail and commitment to doing things the right way help create positive outcomes for our students. Brandi is always willing to do what it takes to ensure students are supported. She is also someone who can be counted on to step in at a moment’s notice to help a student, teacher, or colleague. Brandi genuinely cares about those around her, and that care is evident in the way she treats others each day. One of Brandi’s greatest strengths is her ability to meet students where they are. She gets down at their level, both physically and emotionally, and guides them through problem-solving using the tools and strategies they have learned through instruction. She strives to ensure all students are learning and growing, and she empowers them to use their skills with confidence. She is exceptionally deserving of being recognized as our March Staff Member of the Month!"