"We are honored to nominate Angela Carlson as our third quarter Employee of the Quarter. Her extraordinary dedication and selflessness in supporting our school community has always been top-notch. When a colleague went out on leave, Angie transitioned from being "just a teammate" to the essential bridge between our students and their new virtual SLP, tirelessly troubleshooting tech issues and physically helping students connect to their sessions. Beyond her own caseload, she demonstrated a remarkable commitment to the staff by volunteering to adjust her schedule to cover a fellow teacher’s lunch break by strategically servicing her students within that specific classroom. On top of all of this, she has remained a phenomenal mentor to her SLP intern, modeling the kind of leadership, flexibility, and student first mindset that defines the very best of our profession. Angie has been an incredible teacher and colleague over her many years at Windsor and we hope she knows how incredible she is!"
- Kasie Kosinski, Windsor Principal
"I am pleased to recommend Becky Swenson for Employee of the Quarter. Becky serves as the Assistant Principal at Parker Center and has been a valued member of the district for many years. Her deep experience and dedication to students, staff, and families make a meaningful impact on our school community each day. Becky brings extensive knowledge of early childhood programming, special education, and IEP processes. She does an outstanding job leading the Early Childhood diagnostic team and guiding the intake process for new students entering the EC program. Becky carefully supports the team as they work through eligibility decisions and helps ensure students are placed in the most appropriate programs to meet their needs. Her understanding of early childhood special education law, procedures, and timelines is exceptional, and she consistently helps ensure that everything is handled correctly and thoughtfully. In addition to her expertise, Becky approaches her work with kindness and professionalism. She builds strong relationships with parents and is always supportive of staff. Her ability to clearly explain complex processes and answer questions is greatly appreciated. Becky is also someone who brings a positive attitude and a great sense of humor to the team, which makes working with her both productive and enjoyable. Becky’s knowledge, leadership, and genuine care for students and families make her an outstanding Assistant Principal. For these reasons, I am proud to nominate Becky Swenson for Employee of the Quarter!"
- Bradley Breakfield, Parker Assistant Principal
"Gina always thinks that we give her all the best students. In fact, this is a reflection of her and her approach to teaching. Gina creates a calm environment in her classroom that honors every student. She is open to feedback and always keeps an open mind. She is a great teammate and is a calming presence in our building."
- Ryan Reinecke, Rock Cut Principal
"Jenn is an incredible interventionist and person. The students love to see her and they make extraordinary academic progress. Jenn is hard working and always willing to lend a helping hand. She truly wants what is best for our students every day. She is a valuable member of the Marquette team and we are lucky to have her! "
- Brock Morlan, Marquette Principal
"Karen always goes above and beyond! She decorates for our School Breakfast Week and National School Lunch week like no one I've seen before! She went ALL OUT this past week on our Quest for School Breakfast by decorating her area to resemble a full blown royal castle!
Karen is retiring this year after 17 years of awesome lunch lady duties!
Thank you so much for all you've done for our department and students!! You will be missed!"
- Jamie Carollo, Director of Food and Nutrition Services
"I would like to nominate Meghan Hembrough for Employee of the Quarter in recognition of the incredible impact she has on our students and staff at Parker Center. As our Library Interventionist, Meghan goes above and beyond to create a welcoming and inclusive library environment. She has worked intentionally to ensure our library reflects the languages spoken by our students and families, seeking out books in every language represented at Parker Center. When new languages enter our school community, she actively finds resources to support those students, in most recent years adding Braille books to ensure accessibility for all learners. In addition to her normal instruction, Meghan has created a library space where students can explore and engage in developmental play. These opportunities help students build problem-solving and social skills outside of the classroom. Meghan also supports our staff by providing an additional story time for each class every month, allowing teachers time to meet with the PD Specialist and administration to collaborate and discuss student needs. She is always willing to jump in and help wherever needed. Meghan’s dedication to students, staff, and inclusive learning makes her truly deserving of Employee of the Quarter."
- Erin Anderson, Parker Center Principal
"Ms. Cook does an outstanding job fulfilling her role as Executive Assistant to the Superintendent while also serving as a trusted resource for staff and families. She consistently assists with registration questions, clarifies policies, and supports families with billing concerns. Pam is truly invaluable to the district office, and I greatly appreciate her willingness to help in any situation. For these reasons, and many others not listed here, I am pleased to nominate Ms. Pam Cook."
- Dr. Terrell Yarbrough, Superintendent
"Sam is just amazing. She is the attendance secretary at Maple and everyone loves her from the staff, parents, and students. She goes above and beyond in so many ways. If you need something she has already started to do it before you even ask her to do so. She makes the office such a happy place with her positive attitude and energy. Her attention to detail is absolutely amazing and let me tell you she creates a beautiful spreadsheet for anything and everything! She has attended many school events at Maple to help out this year and last year. Sam has the heart to help others and it shows daily! Maple is a better place because of Ms. Sam. "
- Tammy Poole, Maple Principal
"Mrs. Pfeifer has been a staple at Ralston for many years. She is retiring at the end of this school year, and while we are excited for her retirement journey, this will be a huge loss for Ralston. Her impact as an educator and colleague will be felt for years to come. Susie has given of herself time and time again to help our young students grown and learn. She truly loves her students and they certainly love her as well. Thank you for making such an impact on the lives of students and families for decades at Ralston! We are going to miss you so much!. "
- Scott Rollinson, Ralston Principal