2019-2020 Nominees

March, April & May Nominees

Olga Pliego

Olga was recognized for going above and beyond to support our teachers, students and families at Glen Oaks. We are so lucky to have her on our team. Olga is extremely helpful and caring. Everyone who meets Olga instantly loves her. We would especially like to recognize Olga for going above and beyond during remote learning. This is uncharted territory for everyone, but Olga has jumped right in. Olga has volunteered to do additional translating. She regularly communicates with parents. She supports our teachers with anything they need. She has an amazing heart, and we are so lucky to have her.

Lisa Whitcomb

Lisa was recognized for being a friendly support to staff. Lisa has been such a wonderful and calming person during this entire pandemic. I have had numerous questions regarding lane changes, course reimbursement and questions regarding my licensure. During this time, Lisa has been so friendly, offered ongoing encouragement and guided me through the entire process. Her knowledge and support for staff is invaluable. Any time I have a question, Lisa is there to quickly respond and provide everything I need - day or night. I am so thankful for everything she does.

Dave Creagan

Dave was recognized for participating in a demo-lesson where he modeled a third-grade English Language Arts lesson for teachers. Many of the students in the class he taught are English Learners. He modeled using illustrations to develop background on a text, had great clarity throughout the lesson and modeled strong classroom management. Students were fully engaged throughout the lesson. He is a team leader who rolls up his sleeves and leads by example. Thank you Dave for all that you do!

February Nominees

Alexa (Calvey) Kruszynski

Alexa is a LEAP teacher who was recognized for being exceptionally accommodating and patient with a student with whom she has been working everyday one-on-one in a quiet environment while we wait to determine the appropriate placement for him.

Kelly O'Blanis

Kelly was recognized for taking on her own LEAP classroom along with a second LEAP classroom while the other teacher is working one-on-one with another student. Each morning we have been combining the two classrooms and Kelly takes it all in stride.

Camille Brall

Camille was recognized for "dropping everything and helping out for the good of the cause." "Whatever you need me to do is usually her response." Recently, she has been working with a child who is keeping her busy - very busy. She comes in every day ready to take on any challenge I give her.

Amanda Warwick

Amanda was recognized for taking on a new student who has been struggling with behavior issues. The child has made tremendous strides and is so happy in Amanda's room. Behavior is no longer an issue as her classroom is so welcoming, loving and differentiated.

Ahlam Hassan

Ahlam was recognized for being an incredible mentor and leader. She has been so supportive to new teachers and has made me feel so comfortable in this district. She has such a positive attitude and is so welcoming to everyone. She is literally an amazing teacher and an amazing mentor and friend. Thank you for being such a great supporter. I appreciate everything you have done and for helping me grow.

Kristen Brudzisz

Kristen was recognized for being a motivating component behind the PBIS program at Conrady. She is a diplomatic delegate who inspires other teachers to be involved in caring about the needs of all students in making Conrady a more positive atmosphere. Kristen continues to be the creative genius behind T-shirt designs and posters. The creative work she provides during and after the school day does not go unnoticed and is always appreciated.

Megan Patti-Hunt

Megan was recognized for the amount of work and energy she brings both during and outside the school day. It is beyond commendable. From playing music before the school day begins to buying chips and gift cards after work, Megan has helped make the Conrady PBIS program so successful. She continues to galvanize both teachers and students alike through her Paw Prints, announcements and e-mails. It even seems like most kids come to sporting events to see her set up the concession stand after school. Megan deserves to continually be recognized for her unwavering commitment to the social and emotional needs of all students.

Gloria Scislowicz

Gloria was recognized for always helping others. "When I get something wrong or don't understand something, Ms. Scislowicz is always there to help me. She is always so nice."

Megan Sumner-Jones

Megan was recognized for being a driving force behind the initial and combined success of the PBIS program at Conrady. Whether she is attempting to emcee a game show, provide witty riddles or making cool tools accessible to all teachers, Megan is 100 percent committed to making sure staff and students alike are benefiting from the program. This level of commitment is seen both outside and during school hours. Her positive attitude toward the social and emotional needs of all students is contagious and appreciated.

Megan Zumpano

Megan was recognized for being the behind-the-scenes gladiator for the PBIS program at Conrady. Megan is one of the "brains" behind the kickoff assemblies in August and January. She made it a point for students to be welcomed when returning from long breaks. The students truly look forward to these events. Megan also makes it a point to have cool tools accessible to all staff.

January Nominees

Samantha Sincock, Michelle Sharp and Bridget McCarthy

Samantha Sincock, Michelle Sharp and Bridget McCarthy were recognized for their hard work and dedication in building a truly positive, caring team at Conrady Junior High School. These ladies have dedicated their time and talents to organizing and implementing various activities that provide teachers the opportunity to spend time together and support each other.

Tarra Cosgrove

Tarra was recognized for always being there to answer questions and help with whatever is needed. Not only is she an amazing team leader, she is also a great colleague. We are lucky to have Tarra at Oak Ridge School!

Dr. Eileen McCaffrey

Eileen was recognized for always supporting her students, teachers and parents. She is doing her best to make sure Dorn is the best school for our kids. I'm so happy that my kids have the best principal in the world! My whole family loves Dr. McCaffrey!

Diana Rhodes

Diana Rhodes was recognized for being an outstanding teacher and a joy to co-teach with. Her classroom is a warm and welcoming place for students to learn and grow. Diana is always thinking of and creating ways to engage her students through movement and song. We are so lucky to have her as a part of our 4th Grade ELA team!

December Nominees

Mary Jo Heinz

Mary Jo Heinz was recognized for "everything she does to help my daughter be a better student." Mrs. Heinz always thinks of others before herself. She gives everything she has to her students. "We love you so much!"

Margaret Kristufek

Margaret Kristufek was recognized for being so instrumental in our son's transition to junior high last year. He relies on her every day to be successful in the LEAP program. She stays late to help him with band rehearsal and at the evening band concerts. Our son talks about Mrs. K at home quite often.

Stefanie Bell

Stefanie Bell was recognized for her outstanding work in the LEAP program. She has done an outstanding job implementing AAC within the classrooms as well as providing other Assistive Tech resources to students within our program. Ms.Bell has helped all students communicate their wants and needs and engage in meaningful conversations with staff and peers. She also has developed a yoga and breathing program which helps students reflect and regulate their feelings and emotions through the integration of fitness and movement. We are so grateful to have Ms. Bell as she works tirelessly to give each student a voice.

Pat Stevens

Pat Stevens was recognized for truly caring about her students, not just in the classroom but their overall well-being. Ms. Stevens is an asset to Conrady Junior High School. I e-mailed Ms. Stevens with a concern I had about an assignment my daughter had and, rather than e-mailing me back, she called me on the phone and addressed the issue. She was very calm with me and wanted me to express to my daughter not to stress out. Ms. Stevens takes time out at night and weekends to call home. Most recently, she called me after my daughter took a test to tell me how well she did, Ms. Stevens is truly awesome!

Elevera Werr

Elevera Werr was recognized for being the most kind and loving bus driver we have ever had. She cares so much for each and every one of her students. She accommodates for every little request we have ever had. Elevera is always so happy to see the kids. We want to thank her for all of what she did for all these years.

Kelly Robinson

Kelly Robinson was recognized for helping me understand what we are learning She is always happy and cares for her students. Mrs. Robinson always makes sure we are on the right track for our education.

Julia Clipper

Julia Clipper had some big shoes to fill in replacing former Conrady band director Mrs. Clemons. We have been so pleased with everything she has done so far. Mrs. Clipper has great communications skills, is very organized and even has our son playing the bassoon. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication.

November Nominees

Elevera Werr

Elevera Werr was recognized three times this month as she wraps up a career that has spanned more than three decades of service to the district as a bus driver. Elvera is a considerate driver who puts the students first. She drives the bus as if she is transporting her own kids. I know she is retiring soon and she is going to be missed. Thank you for everything. We wish you the best and we are happy that we will still see you since you are our neighbor.

Georgette Vander Velde

Georgette Vandervelde was recognized for being such a caring teacher who always puts her students' learning and social/emotional growth before anything else. She is kind and tolerant and works really hard to ensure her students are getting the best from her.

Gayle Farmer

Gayle Farmer is being recognized for always willing to embrace challenges with positive solutions. She has embraced using AAC in her classroom this year. Gayle works hard with all her students to assist in improving their communications skills and she is always problem-solving new solutions. She has embraced using new systems and programs with enthusiasm. She models language on student communications systems and encourages students to use their communications systems.

Joanie Sawinski

Joanie Sawinski was recognized for always putting the needs of the students and others first. She truly cares about what she does and selflessly goes about her job at Dorn. She deserves to be recognized for all the little things she does throughout the day that go unnoticed, like making a last-minute copy or helping a teacher or subbing if needed. Mrs. Joanie approaches her job with a smile every day. She has helped me become a better teacher while getting to know the culture at Dorn.

Wendy Alcala

Wendy Alcala was recognized for being so devoted to her students. She is always trying to find new ways to teach and help students learn and get the best of their abilities. Mrs. Alcala is a consummate professional and a great asset to the third-grade team. We're so glad to have her!

October Nominees

Jolanta Maslak

Jolanta Maslak was recognized for being a radiant and passionate teacher, committed to the success of every student. She is such a positive teacher to work with and a wonderful co-teaching colleague. She has great skill in making sure she is meeting her students' levels, while still maintaining high expectations. Jolanta worked effortlessly on differentiating resources for bilingual students so that the content is accessible to them. In addition, Jolanta is so supportive of parental involvement. She attended a parent event to provide translation, and continues to offer her time to attend and support family events. We are so lucky to have a teacher like Jolanta in our school district.

Badria Abdelal

Badria Abdelal was recognized for being a true star! The LEAP program has been implementing a new communication system in the classroom, and Ms. Badria has embraced the system and uses it with all students. Ms. Badria is always modeling language using communication devices, pictures and communication boards. Ms. Badria is always encouraging students to use their communication tools the best way they can. Thank you Ms. Badria for all that you do!

Wafaa El-Zibak

Wafaa El-Zubak was recognized for being a true star! Ms. Wafaa is caring and hardworking, and always doing her best with a smile on her face! Recently, Ms. Wafaa has been using an speech generating communication device with a new LEAP student. Ms. Wafaa is excelling at using the device, and the student is flourishing.

Dawn Ventura

Dawn Ventura was recognized for being an asset to Glen Oaks and Oak Ridge schools. She is extremely creative and plans projects for her students that reflect her understanding of the artistic process and child development. She supports community involvement by collaborating with the local libraries to display our students' creations and celebrate their work.

Bob Kelly

Bob Kelly was recognized this month for being the best bus driver in the world. He always has a smile on his face when he greets the children. He makes sure they are safe both going to school and coming home from school. If you are running late, he always waits a minute for you. He is awesome!

Alyssa Puzzo

Alyssa Puzzo was recognized for being amazing with my class. She keeps the students fully engaged while they are waiting in the hall to begin class. They love seeing her because they know she will sing songs and do finger plays with them while they wait. She truly loves interacting with the students and it shows. I really appreciate all the effort she puts in everyday with my group.

Judy Amato

Judy Amato was recognized for always being available to help fix problems that arise with our new iVisions technology. She has great communication skills updating us on the status of the system, sending numerous emails and links to help correct problems. She takes time out of her busy schedule to ease the frustrations when things are not working quite right. She is so patient and understanding and I want to thank her for stepping up to help. Sometimes when people are behind the scenes, others don't realize just how valuable they are. She deserves to be recognized. THANKS JUDY!!!

Terry Geary

Terry Geary was recognized for doing an amazing job with the LEAP students every day. He treats each child as if they were the most important child on the bus. He understands their needs and greets them every morning and afternoon with a smile and kind words. He ensures that they come to school in a good mood and go home in that same good mood. The parents know that their children are safe with Mr. Terry and that is such a comfort to them. He greets the teachers and staff with a smile every morning. This starts our day off right. The first contact of the day can be the most important contact, and Terry always delivers!!!! We are so fortunate to have such a kind and caring person to work with every day. Thank you Mr. Terry for just being you.

Barbara Kulikowski

Barbara Kulikowski is a wonderful addition to Oak Ridge this year! While a teacher has been on leave she has taken on many extra responsibilities and always with a smile on her face! Not only is she an asset to her Emerging Bilingual students, she has also been a huge support to the entire class of students she visits every day. We are grateful for her hard work and dedication and her efforts have not gone unnoticed! Thank you Mrs. Kulikowski!

Kathy Frasher

Kathy Frasher was recognized for being a great bus driver and making sure the kids are safe going to school and coming home from school.

Leslie Urbaniak

Leslie Urbaniak was recognized for being a team player. Keep in mind she retired last year, but when we had a staff member who unfortunately got hurt and needed to miss time, Leslie quickly stepped up and filled in for this teacher for most of the days she has been out. Remember, Leslie is retired and could have been sitting on a beach or anywhere but inside a classroom. But she chose to be here helping our students be better every day. Leslie has always embodied what it means to be an Oak Ridge Mustang, and she continues to do so in "retirement." Thank you to Leslie Urbaniak for her continued commitment to our students and staff at Oak Ridge school.

Karen Canning, Kate Rotsch and Regina Blackstone

Karen, Kate, and Regina were recognized for being instrumental in promoting social-emotional learning and our PBIS program. They meet bi-weekly to discuss whole school social-emotional learning, and they also meet with teams weekly to discuss individual students, their needs, and how to best service them. They've helped to create a special "See Something, Say Something" form that students can complete if there is ever something that they need to report. Students are able to report bullying issues, personal concerns, anything dangerous, etc. When that form is submitted, our social workers are able to meet with students to address those concerns. Karen, Kate, and Regina have also created weekly videos and lesson plans for all of our teachers to address our PBIS matrix and school-wide expectations. We are so thankful to have such an amazing PPS team. They love Glen Oaks and our students and are completely dedicated to making it a better place.

Selena Palacios

Selena Palacios was recognized for being an amazing aide. Salena is extremely caring and always makes sure her students are well taken care of and they feel safe. She also is very respectful of students and treats them with a kind heart.

Andy Anderson

Andy Anderson was recognized for being a great support and and resource for us in our early administrative careers. There have been many times where each of us has called Andy or barged into his office to ask a question that seemingly always needs immediate attention. He never says he's too busy. He's quick to drop what he's doing and open a handbook or policy manual to offer some guidance. Andy has been a great mentor for all of us, and we can't thank him enough for the time and support he continues to provide.

Lisa Quigley

Lisa Quigley was recognized for being an amazing educator and colleague! She is constantly supporting her students by giving them a high quality education, reflecting on what her students need to help them learn, and reflecting on her own teaching to adapt as needed. She is in constant communication to share with her team what is working and what may not be working, and is always ready to respond with solutions to overcome obstacles. She has taken on the Honors program this year, and is working hard to ensure that all students are challenged. Her students and team respect her for her expertise and knowledge, and she is an amazing, important asset to our school.

Magda Szakola

Magda Szakola is new to Oak Ridge this year and while a teacher has been on leave she has stepped up to the plate, helping out wherever needed! Not only is she an asset to her Emerging Bilingual students, she has also been a huge support to the entire class of students she visits every day! She has proven to be a STAR through her hard work and dedication and we want to say THANK YOU Mrs. Szakola!

Elvera Werr

Elvera Werr was recognized for doing a fantastic job driving her bus. She has been driving my grandkids for the last seven years and she always makes sure all the children on her bus are safe. She is always very caring and District 117 is lucky to have her.

September Nominees

Andrea Hogan

Andrea Hogan was recognized for sharing more than 100 vocabulary strategies at the ELA Collaboration Day. She went above and beyond by putting together a presentation for the teachers. Thank you for sharing your strategies with the second- through fifth-grade ELA teachers.

Ryan Whitcomb

Ryan Whitcomb won the trifecta this month as he was nominated three times for his hard work, dedication, collaboration, flexibility and student-centered approach to his position. He was also recognized for sharing his creative ideas and valuable resources . Ryan truly cares for each student and is an advocate for them. We would love to see him back in the building and he will definitely be missed. He did a fantastic job!

Jane Kirkus

Jane Kirkus was recognized this month for going above and beyond to meet the needs of her students as well as her dedication to her profession. She comes to work every day with a positive attitude and a desire to see each and every one of her students succeed. She has become an asset to Oak Ridge and a privilege to work with.

Mary Ruiz

Mary Ruiz was recognized for being a team player and exhibiting an outstanding attitude in doing whatever it takes to make sure the district continues to operate in a fashion that helps acclimate new staff to help them meet the medical needs of kids and buildings. Her performance has been a fine example of the team mentality that makes North Palos schools a rewarding place to work.

Julie McElligott, Kim Sievers and Lauren Wuchter

The trio of Julie McElligott, Kim Sievers and Lauren Wuchter were recognized as a team for launching the new literacy support model. They have spent countless hours analyzing student data with the leadership team, preparing materials and planning lessons to ensure a smooth roll out. They have brought great ideas and enthusiasm to the team at each step. Their efforts are truly appreciated.

Neda Sunbulli

Neda Sunbulli was recognized for showing the human side of teaching. Mrs. Sunbulli was greeting each of her students with a hug or fist bump as they entered the classroom. One student was sitting across the hallway and the last to enter the classroom. She instantly knew something was wrong as the student began to cry. The student had a lunch bag but it was sent to school empty. Her response was "It's OK honey, I will get you something to eat, followed by a big hug." Mrs. Sunbulli is a Star for being there for her students.

Glen Oaks Staff

Glen Oaks staff was recognized for a team effort in helping win a National Blue Ribbon Schools Award. Glen Oaks was one of only 362 schools across the country and the only school in the Southland to win the prestigious award. It was the school's second Blue Ribbon Award in the last seven years. Congratulations Glen Oaks!

Judy Amato

Judy Amato was recognized for training and assisting with the new Visions ordering process. She is extremely helpful and pleasant every time I have issues. I appreciate her knowledge and willingness to go out of her way to assist whenever needed.

Rosa Ramirez

Rosa Ramirez was recognized for being an asset to the district office. Rosa consistently goes out of her way to help with whatever is needed. I appreciate her "can-do" attitude..

Linda O'Brien

Linda O'Brien was recognized for being a champion of our kids with special needs. Her passion is demonstrated through her high-quality occupational therapy, her genuine love for each child, her voice of advocacy, her listening ear and her energetic spirit. Linda serves as my teammate and friend, but also as a mentor to me as I learn something new from her each day. Thank you Linda for being the superhero you are! You are SO appreciated!

August Nominees

Brana Gallegos

Brana Gallegos was recognized for going above and beyond in helping put together booklets, making copies and researching substitutes for our North Palos 117 mentoring program. She has been diligent, precise and prompt and is deserving of a STAR.

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