Kudos to Amber Hannah, the SCCSD preschool program administrator at Clark Early Childhood Center.
The preschool instructional coaches said the following about Amber in their nomination, "Amber works to ensure that all students in the SCCSD preschool program are provided a high quality education. A top priority for Amber is to use data to drive universal instruction, as well as research, and evidence based practices for the program. She is always available to talk with staff who need it, and she is supportive in all things good for kids. Her determination, leadership, confidence, and passion do not go unnoticed. Thanks for all you do for preschoolers, Hannah!"
Kudos to Liz Alcala, a building assistant at Liberty Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Liz in their nomination, "Liz is all about the relationships she builds with those around her. Everyone is greeted with a smile and a positive interaction. The students and adults love her. She is the heart and soul of Liberty Elementary. Thank you for all you do, Liz!"
Kudos to Nicole Muston, a fourth-grade teacher at Perry Creek Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Nicole in their nomination, "Nicole goes above and beyond to support the students in her classroom. Not only does she provide accommodations needed, she ensures that students have everything they need in order to be successful. She makes individual anchor charts for students to use with the biggest heart and most welcoming personality. She asks questions about the students in her classroom to ensure she is meeting their needs. She pushes all students to be the best they can be and wants students to grow both academically and in their behavior. Students and staff are lucky to work with her daily at Perry Creek!"
Kudos to Ethan Sorenson, a teacher and coach at North High School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Ethan in their nomination, "Mr. Sorenson embodies what it means to be passionate about education and putting students first. He brings the same energy and commitment to both his role as a ninth-grade English teacher and his role as a coach. He maintains high expectations for his students while giving them the support and tools they need to reach or exceed them. He helps all of us who work with him be better as well! We are grateful to have him at North High."
Kudos to Jessica Holzman, a special education teacher at Unity Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Jessica in their nomination, "Jessica is an amazing advocate for all of our students at Unity. She has been instruental in making sure that students have everything that they need to be successful in all areas of our building. Her hardwork and dedication to Unity's students, staff, and families, does not go unnoticed. Thanks for doing all you do Jessica, we are stronger because of you!"
Kudos to Mary DeBondt, a instructional assistant at Riverside Elementary School.
Molly Pace said the following about Mary in their nomination, ""Despite everything, Mary always has a smile on her face and does amazing work with all the kiddos. Thank you for all you do, Mary! It does not go unnoticed!"
Kudos to Tristen Arrick, a science teacher at North High School.
A few students said the following about Mr. Arrick in their nomination, "Mr. Arrick is a great teacher and we've have learned a lot from him. He makes chemistry fun and he's just fun to yap with! Thank you for all you do, Mr. Arrick!"
Kudos to Crystal Shepherd-Coyle, a fifth-grade teacher at Riverside Elementary School.
Courtney Pottebaum said the following about Crystal in their nomination, "Mrs. Coyle goes above and beyond for her students. She is very aware when she has a student she senses may need extra help or attention from me (a school counselor) and I appreciate that!"
Kudos to Lisa Rembe, a special education instructional assistant at Sunnyside Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Lisa in their nomination, "I would like to recognize Lisa Rembe for her unwavering dedication to students with special needs. Her compassionate approach ensures each student's unique needs are met, and she consistently goes above and beyond to provide the support and accommodations required for their success. Lisa's collaborative spirit makes her an invaluable team player, always working closely with her colleagues to create an inclusive and nurturing environment. Her commitment to following accommodations and advocating for her students has a lasting impact on their growth and well-being. Thank you, Lisa, for your remarkable service and dedication!"
Kudos to Andrew Whitead, a third-grade teacher at Riverside Elementary School.
Denise Jensen said the following about Andrew in their nomination, "Andrew has been a positive change at Riverside. He is always greeting students at the door, building relationships with his students, working hard to learn new curriculum and has a great attitude. He's a great and valued part of our Roadrunner family!"
Kudos to Denise Jensen, a second-grade teacher at Riverside Elementary School.
Jade Besh said the following about Denise in their nomination, "Denise is a teacher I aspire to be every day. She is always kind and patient, but also direct and unwavering when need be. She goes above and beyond to meet the needs of her students, both emotionally and academically. Denise has truly been a great resource for me and has helped me implement Benchmark this year since she piloted it last year! Kudos, Denise!"
Kudos to Nancy Staab, a fourth-grade teacher at Riverside Elementary School.
Kris McCarthy and Larissa Boettger said the following about Nancy in their nomination, "Nancy builds relationships with every single student right away! She embraces the uniqueness of each student and helps students learn to appreciate themselves. She gets to know their families, what they are involved in, etc. She even attends games, concerts, recitals, etc. for her students. She builds a community. Nancy has high expectations for her students and teaches them how to set goals and reach those goals. She teaches them mindfulness and the importance of mindfulness. Nancy spends hours of her own time working late to meet the needs of every one of her students in every area. She never gives up on a student, no matter how difficult it may be to reach that student. Nancy has many students from years past that visit her and stay in contact. Many students and their families attribute their student's successes to Nancy. Likewise, many families who have had Nancy as their child's teacher request her for their other children. Nancy is dedicated and passionate about teaching, and it shows. Kudos!"
Kudos to Alicia Trobaugh, a third-grade teacher at Riverside Elementary School.
Nancy Staab said the following about Alicia in their nomination, "Alicia is our 'silent partner' here at Riverside. I have worked with her for many years. We taught Kindergarten together years ago, too. She always has great input when we were planning together. She will never challenge anyone, but if you ask for her input, she will share her knowledge with you. Alicia is a strong, knowledgeable teacher! She is well-respected by her peers and her students. Kudos!"
Kudos to Melissa Calderon, a food service employee at Riverside Elementary School.
Jonni Mills said the following about Melissa in their nomination, "Melissa is a valued team member always going above and beyond for the food service program. The kids love her and her co-workers appreciate her hard work and dedication."
Kudos to Kim Ritchison, the office manager at Riverside Elementary School.
Kayla Herfel said the following about Kim in their nomination, "Kim is the glue at Riverside Elementary. She has the answers to everything. Even when she has a million things going on, she will stop to help others with a smile on her face. Kudos, Kim!"
Kudos to Pat Toben, the band director at North High School.
Michelle Bostinelos said the following about Pat in their nomination, "Pat Toben is a shining STAR at North High. What she does for the students involved in band is amazing! She led the Marching Stars to win several awards this fall. Her hard work, dedication and compassion is noted by both students and parents involved in the band program. Kudos, Pat!"
Kudos to Deb Edwards, a resource paraprofessional at Perry Creek Elementary School.
Perry Creek resource teachers said the following about Deb in their nomination, "Deb is such a blessing to Perry Creek! She remains calm, cool, and collected in the most extreme circumstances. We can always count on her to collect important data that is necessary when making decisions in special education. Deb has an easy way about her that helps others feel comfortable and supported. The students truly love her quiet, calm support. Deb has been a rock for our team here at Perry Creek for many years no because she is trustworthy and always dependable. Not only is she dependable, you can count on her for a good laugh as well. Thank you for all you do over and above the call of duty here at Perry Creek, Miss Deb!"
Kudos to Dean Milander, a paraprofessional at Perry Creek Elementary School.
Humera Majeed (Eena) said the following about Dean in their nomination, "He works hard and is very kind to the foundation (special eduation) kids. He is also very flexible to work with, not only in my room but other rooms too. Kudos for all you do, Dean!"
Kudos to Emely Velasco, classified payroll associate at the Educational Service Center.
Sara Gottlieb said the following about Emely in their nomination, "Emely has been so helpful with any questions I have had regarding payroll and timekeeping. She is always kind whenever I reach out to her, even if I have multiple questions and she makes sure to explain the reasoning behind the answer that she provides. I really appreciate all the information that she provides because she is helping me be successful at my job. I appreciate all the help she provides and look forward to continue working with her in the future!"
Kudos to Berta Goode, a paraeducator at Perry Creek Elementary School.
Teri Winkel said the following about Berta in their nomination, "Berta goes above and beyond with all the kids. When she brings them to breakfast or lunch, she always makes sure they have everything they need with a smile on her face and a positive attitude. Berta helps anyway she can. Thank you Berta for all you do. You are appreciated!"
Kudos to Angie Conway, an attendance specialist at Perry Creek Elementary School.
Teri Winkel said the following about Angie in their nomination, "Angie is out helping us in the lunchroom every chance she gets. She makes lunch more fun for the kids. She is also the first smile in the office we see first thing in the morning! Angie is an exceptional employee. Thank you for all your help. We appreciate you so much."
Kudos to Brian Williams, a teacher at North High School.
Tonya Zielich said the following about Brian in their nomination, "As a special education teacher providing alternative supports, Brian always goes above and beyond with students in our room. His personality and character builds trust with our students trust and they enjoy working with him. We appreciate him and his gift of reaching any and all students regardless of what they may need. Thank You Brian!"
Kudos to Jamie (James) Marksbury, a building service technician at Perry Creek Elementary School.
Teri Winkel said the following about Jamie in their nomination, "Jamie always has a positive attitude and he takes great care of keeping our school clean. Jamie helps wherever he is needed. He goes out of his way to help food service staff get the trash out or anything staff may have a question with. Thank you Jamie for all you do. We appreciate you at Perry Creek!"
Kudos to Paige Atchison, a food service team member at Perry Creek Elementary School.
Teri Winkel said the following about Paige in their nomination, ""Paige is an incredible team player who works tirelessly to support our team every day. Her love for the kiddos shines through, always bringing smiles to their faces. We’re so lucky to have her at Perry Creek. Thank you, Paige, for all your hard work!"
Kudos to Anita Oliver, a paraeducator at East Middle School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Anita in their nomination, "Anita goes above and beyond as a paraeducator. She is flexible with her schedule and goes with the quick schedule changes that happen in the classroom. She is a critical member of the classroom and East Middle is extremely lucky to have her as part of our Spartan team."
Kudos to Makayla Sorenson, a second grade teacher at Perry Creek Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Makayla in their nomination, "Makayla is an excellent member of the Stars community in not only her teaching, but as her role in coaching as well. Makayla holds the things she does to a high standard, which shows in her teaching and coaching. We are extremely lucky to have Makayla on the Northside!"
Kudos to Brittany Covarrubias, a human resources administrative assistant at the Educational Service Center.
Barb McDermott said the following about Brittany in their nomination, "Brittany is an incredible asset to the HR department. She is always available and helpful and is quick to respond either to phone calls or emails. She is very knowledgeable and willing to find the answers if she doesn't know. It's nice to have someone like Brittany to reach out to when I have questions!"
Kudos to Jade Besh, a principal at Riverside Elementary School.
Natalie Stubbe said the following about Jade in their nomination, "Mrs. Besh is a ray of sunshine. She works hard to make connections with her children and even has connections with children who are not in her classroom. She is a fun person to be around and an amazing teacher!"
Kudos to Lisa Peterson, a transportation specialist 2 at Operations & Maintenance.
Courtney Lahrs said the following about Lisa in their nomination, "Lisa is always very helpful when you call with transportation needs. She always is willing to help find a solution that works best for the students! Thank you for all you do, Lisa!"
Kudos to Kevin Finkey, a principal at Unity Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Kevin in their nomination, "We appreciate Kevin for his leadership at Unity. He is committed to creating a positive and inclusive environment for both students and staff. He navigates challenges with grace and truly cares about our school. Kevin's vision and dedication make such a positive difference in the lives of everyone here. Thank you Kevin for all that you do, day in and day out. You are a remarkable leader, and we are fortunate to have you at the helm!"
Kudos to Kelly Sager, a kindergarten teacher at Riverside Elementary School.
Courtney Pottebaum said the following about Kelly in their nomination, "Kelly is always searching for ways to adjust to the needs of the kids in her classroom. She communicates with the parents of kids she has concerns with regularly and is constantly trying to make the learning day the best for her students. Thank you for all you do, Kelly!"
Kudos to Mary Kohn, a building assistant at Riverside Elementary School.
Jade Besh said the following about Mary in their nomination, "I honestly don't know what I would do without her! She was a huge help in my classroom last year and this year has been my behind-the-scenes support. She is always willing to help with any classroom task, cutting, sorting, stapling, labeling, recess duty, one on one help with students. There is nothing she can't do! Plus, she is always more than happy to do it. Without being asked, she has been doing weekly meals in the lounge for others to enjoy. She also donated multiple items of need for my class to support my students which we all were so thankful for. I know this teacher, and this classroom wouldn't run the same without our Mary!"
Kudos to Heather Prevail, a paraeducator at Liberty Elementary School.
A grateful colleague said the following about Heather in their nomination, "Heather is an amazing asset to Liberty Elementary. She goes above and beyond to foster relationships with students. She makes sure that students are taken care of emotionally. Students love and respect her. Heather is willing to get creative to supports students and never bats an eye to challenging situations."
Kudos to Kelsey Kool, a Early Childhood Special Education Coach at Clark Early Childhood Center.
A grateful colleague said the following about Kelsey in their nomination, "I am nominating this person because she has gone above and beyond to help support the needs of the classrooms she supports by giving of her time and talents to help new teachers, as well as seasoned ones. Kelsey connects daily with teachers that need help and support to ensure they never feel like they are alone or don't have someone in there corner! Kelsey utilizes curriculum strategies and isn't afraid to get into the mix of the classroom and help, support or model strategies when needed. Kelsey is a great asset to the Early Childhood coaching staff!"
Kudos to Rachel Olney, an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Teacher at North High School
A grateful colleague said the following about Rachel in their nomination, "Rachel has been an amazing addition the the ASD team! Her passion for her teaching, students, and classroom has been so great to watch evolve. Everyday pushes her students to continue to reach for their goals! She sees beyond any of their disabilities and doesn't allow them to limit their dreams!"
Kudos to LeTesa Craft, a SPED paraprofessional at Liberty Elementary School.
Erin Richardson said the following about LeTesa in their nomination, "LeTesa has worked hard to build relationships and promote independence in her students. She tackles difficult situations with a smile, and the students love working with her. We are so lucky to have her in our school. Thank you for all that you do!"
Kudos to Alex Kisecker, Director of Bands for East Middle and East High.
A submitter said the following about Alex in their nomination, "Alex goes above and beyond the call of duty as a band director to ensure that the students in his band program are successful. Over the last three years, the growth and progress the band program has made (despite the many challenges he faces) under his direction is beyond appreciated. Thank you for all you do and leading your students to greatness!"
Kudos to Sara Gottlieb, a secretary at operations and maintenance.
Holly Spence said the following about Sara in their nomination, "I recently started at the transportation office and I have witnessed Sara go above and beyond for not only the operations and maintenance staff but also the transportation staff. She has been extremely helpful in making sure I am comfortable with my role and assisting me when I need help. She always has a positive attitude and is a joy to work with!"
Kudos to Jonni Mills, a food service manager at Riverside Elementary School.
Teri Winkel said the following about Jonni in their nomination, "Jonni is a dedicated employee. She works very hard everyday! Jonni is a top notch manager, in part because she cares about her employees and all of our students. You will find her going above and beyond expectations in every way. Jonni is a great asset to the Sioux City Community School District and we appreciate everything she does!"