East High School -

Mark Moos, a Native American tutor at Liberty Elementary School

"Mr. Moos has been a consistent source of support for our students. He is reliable and positive in all of his interactions. Students seek him out for help and support because of the amazing relationships he creates with them. When presented with a change or adjustment to daily duties, he is flexible and has a can-do attitude. We are lucky to have Mr. Moos at Liberty 'Making it Happen' at Liberty!"

Ashley Stangl, a reading teacher at North Middle School

"Ashley Stangl is recognized for her willingness to immediately jump into action to support colleagues and students in the most challenging and unexpected situations. She always ensures her team members and students are cared for. This year she has become a team leader and an active member of our Building Leadership (BLT) team. We appreciate everything Ashley Stangl does for our students and staff!"

Haley Batenhorst, an English teacher at North Middle School

"Haley Batenhorst is recognized for her willingness to immediately jump into action to support colleagues and students in the most challenging and unexpected situations. She is active in our building teams and Professional Learning Community (PLC), regularly exploring learning and behavioral strategies and supports that will help students grow in English and behavioral skills. She also works with students attending night school to continue their instruction of grade-level standards and proposes ideas. Thank you for all you do to support North Middle Students and Staff, Haley!"

Jaime Woodard, a special education teacher at West Middle School

"Ms. Woodard is a fantastic teacher and even better person! She is beyond patient and has some of the best strategies to work through difficult concepts with students who may need extra support. She is always punctual and is willing to go above and beyond to make WMS a better place. She cannot be thanked enough for all she does. Ms. Woodard is a constant advocate for our students' learning needs and is always working to help them become advocates for themselves. She never settles for 'good enough' and always pushes our students to work and grow to the best of their abilities. The kids love her warm and kind demeanor, she is a vital member of our team, and we truly do not know how we could function without her. Congratulations!"

Samantha Treglia, a second-grade teacher at Leeds Elementary School

"As a second-grade teacher, Mrs. Treglia brings warmth, energy, and dedication to her classroom every day. Her kind and compassionate nature makes her an incredible advocate for all students, but she has a particularly remarkable ability to connect with and support our neediest learners. She ensures that each child feels valued, heard, and set up for success, fostering an environment where students feel safe and confident in their abilities. From the moment she walked through the doors of Leeds Elementary, Mrs. Treglia has proven to be a dedicated and reliable team player. She collaborates seamlessly with her colleagues, always willing to lend a helping hand, share ideas, and support those around her. Whether she is problem-solving with her team, stepping up to assist where needed, or bringing positivity to the school, she consistently goes above and beyond for both students and staff. Her passion for teaching is evident in the way she engages her students, making learning fun, interactive, and meaningful. She meets her students where they are and works tirelessly to ensure they receive the individualized support they need to thrive. Mrs. Treglia’s ability to adapt her teaching to meet diverse student needs highlights her deep commitment to student success. Leeds Elementary is incredibly fortunate to have such a compassionate, hardworking, and dedicated educator on our team. Thank you, Mrs. Samantha Treglia, for your commitment to your students, your colleagues, and our school community. Your impact is felt every day, and we are grateful for all you do!"

Michelle Coon, Mariah Dean, Mary DeBondt, Angie Lopez, Vale McCleary, and Marissa Klink (foundations instructional assistant team) at Riverside Elementary School

Sara Fairbanks said the following, "I'm very thankful for these paraeducators going above and beyond while being short-staffed. They do it with a smile and show up every day ready to work hard, no matter what we are challenged with. I am happy they are in my classroom and appreciate all of their hard work and dedication to the students." Preston Fischer said the following, "Our Foundation Instructional Assistants are dedicated to supporting students no matter what the challenge may be. They are always willing to step in and provide any assistance they can. They know and understand how important their role is in each student's academic experience." Jessica Strong added the following, "The instructional assistants in Foundations are always finding ways to help each other out when needed during sensory, specials, and academics. We appreciate them so much and do not know where we would be without them. They deserve to be recognized as they are always going above and beyond helping Sarah and myself in Foundations!"

Martha Mora, an ELL tutor at Hunt A+ Arts Elementary School

"Ms. Mora is one of the most passionate staff members at Hunt. She has high expectations for the students she works with, and works above and beyond to ensure positive relationships with students and families. The students she works with always show tremendous growth and enjoy working with her. We are lucky to have her in the Hunt A+ family!"

Jason Simcoe, a fifth-grade teacher at Bryant Elementary School

"Mr. Simcoe puts in extra effort to build relationships with students in his classroom and throughout the building. You will often find him at recess playing sports with the students. Mr. Simcoe takes time to work through different situations with students who might be feeling big emotions and help them learn how to handle those feelings. He truly cares about his students and it is evident through his daily actions. Congratulations, Mr. Simcoe!"

Jennifer Bruening, a seventh-grade teacher at East Middle School

"Mrs. Bruening has the utmost patience for her job. She is always kind and helpful to all students and staff. She uses academic games to keep the students engaged and willing to learn. Class is well constructed and there is always a schedule to follow, which makes it easy for students to stay focused and know what is expected." A few students added the following, "Mrs. Bruening is a great leader for the black team, she helps out a lot and is a great math teacher and homeroom teacher. She is very helpful, kind, and mindful."

Jill Sharp, Bobbi Jo Reynolds, Makenzie Faycosh, Sarah Kleiver, Megan De La Roi, and Melanie Desmond, special education staff at Spalding Park Environmental Sciences Elementary School

"These team members are a prime example of teamwork and professionalism. They work together and always put student needs first. It is a pleasure to see how much they love their students and how they find joy when helping students grow and succeed. Congratulations! Your work does not go unnoticed."

Karen Ulven, an accountant at the Educational Service Center

"Karen goes the extra mile whenever anyone needs assistance. Karen explains things very well, and if you ever have a question about anything, she stops what she is doing and gives you her full attention. She can make anyone laugh or smile with her quick-witted humor! She is always entertaining everyone, and it is never a quiet day when Karen is around (that’s a good thing). Kudos, Karen, on this well-deserved recognition!"

Joe Riker, an equity liaison at East High School

"Mrs. Collett is dedicated to helping students and staff alike. She works diligently to ensure her student has what is needed for materials. Her smiles brightens all of our days! Congratulations!"

Andrea Vazquez, a fourth-grade teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School

"Andrea consistently puts her best foot forward every day. As a first-year teacher, she has truly excelled in numerous ways, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in her role. In both her grade-level team and the social committee, Andrea actively contributes innovative ideas, fosters team morale, and promotes inclusivity among her colleagues. Her commitment to maintaining a high quality of work and effort not only creates a more positive environment but also inspires those around her to enhance the learning atmosphere. Andrea consistently goes above and beyond for her students, ensuring that every individual need is met and showcasing a deep commitment to excellence. She demonstrates her dedication by proactively seeking support and utilizing available resources to best serve each learner. Through her daily interactions, Andrea makes a meaningful impact on her students' lives, supporting their growth and maintaining an uplifting energy that keeps smiles on their faces. Her diligence extends beyond the classroom, as she actively engages with parents and remains devoted to the success of all students and staff at Loess Hills. Andrea’s passion, dedication, and positivity are truly commendable and leave a lasting impression on everyone she encounters. We are lucky to have Andrea on our team!"

Anne O'Brien, a registrar at Morningside STEM Elementary School

A team member said the following about Anne, "Anne starts off each school year just right by supporting our students and staff, sometimes even before the school year officially begins. She helps parents register our students for school and works to give her very best to assist our students and staff inside and outside the office. Anne always approaches the day with a warm smile as she fields questions throughout the morning and afternoon, communicates endearingly, and encourages all. I don’t know how we would survive from August on without Anne’s positive and helpful attitude. So many thank you’s to, Anne!"

Rachel Oleson, a kindergarten teacher at Perry Creek Elementary School

"Miss Oleson is a kind hearted kindergarten teacher that goes above and beyond for her students and co-workers! There's always a calm and comforting feeling when you walk into her classroom. She spreads joy and passion into her teaching to make students feel comfortable. She is there for the students if they struggle and to celebrate their achievements. Miss Oleson is an active member of her Professional Learning Community (PLC) and brings wonderful ideas to the team. We are lucky to have her at Perry Creek!"

Dani Honsbruch, a Nurse at East High School

A team member said the following about Dani, "Having Dani full time has been a godsend. She goes above and beyond her job duties and is there for everyone. Dani is able to support students and staff whenever needed, both physically and mentally, and knows every person by name only after meeting them once. She welcomes everyone with a smile and is most definitely a GREAT asset to East High! Congratulations!'