At Baker-Butler, our school motto, "Together we learn. Together we belong," guides how we support our students and one another every single day. This spirit of belonging is made possible by the dedicated professionals who go above and beyond to make our school a second home for every child.

Today, we proudly announce the Baker-Butler Employees of the Year. These individuals were selected by their colleagues who see their hard work, passion, and heart in action daily. Each of our school-level winners will now move forward as a nominee for the Albemarle County Public Schools division-wide.

Licensed Employee of the Year: Kristi O’Brien

This award recognizes a teacher, counselor, or specialist who serves as a leader in our school community. As an English Learners (EL) teacher, Kristi plays a vital role in our school by bridging languages and cultures. Teaching across multiple grade levels, she is a constant advocate for our multi-lingual learners, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive both academically and socially. Her colleagues selected her not only for her expertise in instruction but for the seamless way she collaborates with classroom teachers to make sure our motto, "Together we learn." is a reality for every student, regardless of their native language. 

Classified Employee of the Year: Emily Mason

Our classified staff is composed of the essential team members who keep Baker-Butler running, from our dedicated custodians and office associates to our hardworking teaching assistants. This year, we are proud to honor Emily Mason. In her role as a Special Education Teaching Assistant, she shows patience, advocacy, and the deep care of our students' individual needs. She truly embodies our commitment to ensuring every child feels they belong and has the tools to succeed.

First-Year Teacher of the Year: Maddie Kressler

This award highlights a new educator who has already made a profound impact on student growth and school culture. Entering the classroom for the first time is a significant journey, and Maddie has navigated it with grace and excellence. 

As our school-level winners, these three educators will now join nominees from across the division to be considered for the 

ACPS Employee Recognition Awards. These accolades celebrate staff members who:

• Foster Equity: Ensure that race, class, and gender do not predict a student’s success.

• Build Relationships: Strengthen the bond between school, home, and the community.

• Inspire Learning: Encourage a lifelong curiosity in our students.

While we are highlighting these three winners, we want to celebrate our entire staff. It is because we work together that our students are able to learn and feel that they truly belong.

Please join us in congratulating our winners on this well-deserved recognition!

The food bank has shared a specific wishlist of high-priority items:

• Pantry Staples: Baking items (sugar, flour, oil, cake mixes), nut butters, and dried beans (pinto, kidney, lentils).

• Quick Meals: Microwaveable shelf-stable meals, pull-top cans of chili, beef stew, or soup, and single-serving foods like granola bars and fruit cups.

• Protein & Dairy: Shelf-stable milk (including nut, soy, or oat alternatives) and pouches or pull-top cans of tuna or salmon.

• Other Supplies: Diapers (all sizes), wipes, and household items like dish detergent and can openers.

As we work together to keep our morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups running smoothly, we want to share a friendly but important reminder regarding student safety: Please ensure your child always exits and enters the vehicle on the passenger side (curbside).

While it might seem quicker for a student to hop out of the driver’s side, especially if they are seated behind the driver, using the passenger side is a vital safety procedure for several reasons:

• The "Buffer Zone": Stepping out on the driver’s side places a student in an open driving space and to get to the curb they must walk the narrow gap between two cars. By exiting on the passenger side, students step directly onto the sidewalk - a dedicated safe zone away from all vehicle bumpers and tires.

• Predictability for Staff: Our staff and safety patrols focus their attention on the sidewalk. When students exit predictably onto the curb, our team can see them immediately and ensure they transition safely from the car to the building.

A Quick Tip: If your child’s car seat or other seating arrangement makes a passenger-side exit difficult, we recommend taking a few moments to practice "the scoot" across the back seat. It makes a world of difference during the busy morning rush!

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our parking lot a safe zone for every student.