Hanna Bush — Fairmeadows Elementary, ESOL Teacher

Hanna Bush creates a PAWSitive impact by embodying the very excellence she expects from her students and colleagues. She is a role model for tireless work ethic and she drives for greatness. To meet the needs of all learners (not just those she works with closely), she examines each student’s access, background, and strengths. Hanna consistently offers her support to colleagues and empowers our entire school community to reach higher and support one another. I get to see this firsthand in our school, and as Hanna pursued her master’s degree through the GROW program, another example of her commitment to lifelong learning. Ultimately, she inspires us all by proving that a commitment to personal excellence, combined with a heart for service, is the most powerful way to lead.
 

Jane Githinji — Valley High School, Special Education Associate

Jane makes a meaningful and lasting impact through her commitment to supporting all students with special needs. She consistently does whatever it takes to ensure students receive the appropriate academic, behavioral, and emotional support necessary for their success. Jane approaches every task with professionalism, flexibility, and a genuine willingness to step in wherever she is needed, and she always does this without complaint and with a strong sense of purpose. Her dedication ensures that students feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow, contributing directly to their independence and well-being.

In addition to her exceptional work with students, Jane is a consistently positive presence within our building. She brings kindness, reliability, and a calm, steady demeanor to her daily interactions, strengthening the culture of care and collaboration at Valley. Jane’s work ethic and heart for students do not go unnoticed, and our school community is truly blessed to have her as part of our team.
 

Aziz Haffar — Valley High School, Varsity Boys Soccer Coach

When my social studies teacher went on maternity leave, we had Aziz as a long term sub. Aziz always made learning a fun experience and was always very kind. He loved all classes he taught and was such a light at Stilwell. When I received a 504 plan for ASD, he came to all the meetings and made sure the work was not too much for me to handle and helped me through one of my hard days at school. He promotes great resilience at Stilwell by telling his classes about his move from Ghana and how hard it was to get started in a new country, yet he pushed through and shows great resilience for all students in his classes. I will miss him when my social studies teacher returns. Aziz is truly someone who is making a big difference in every student’s life.
 

Jenni Jones — Learning Resource Center, Mentoring & Induction Program Coordinator

I wanted to take a moment to thank Jenni for the incredible support she’s given to our second-year teacher. The teacher specifically named Jenni as one of the key reasons she feels successful this year — a true testament to the time, care, and expertise she’s shared. Jenni’s willingness to step in, listen, and guide the teacher through challenges has made a lasting difference not only in her confidence, but also in the learning experience of her students.

Jenni has a gift for helping teachers feel capable and supported, and that ripple effect reaches every student in their classrooms. Thank you, Jenni, for going all in, for showing up, offering encouragement, and doing whatever it takes so teachers can focus on helping kids thrive. Your dedication and heart for this work truly embody what makes our WDMCS community so strong.
 

Kim Kirby — Hillside Elementary, Preschool Teacher

Kim makes a PAWSitive impact by creating a welcoming and thoughtful preschool environment where students feel safe and supported. She listens, adapts, and problem-solves to meet each child’s individual needs while collaborating closely with her associates. Her calm and supportive presence inspires confidence and a love of learning in her students.
 

Allison Koontz — Indian Hills Junior High, Communications Teacher/Leadership Facilitator

Allison leads and facilitates a leadership group at Indian Hills Junior High. She has cultivated a strong, positive culture that motivates students to become effective leaders not only within Indian Hills but also in the broader community. Allison has developed a thoughtful curriculum that emphasizes individual strengths while promoting the growth and success of the groups each student belongs to. Her lessons are engaging, age-appropriate, and meaningful. Through this work, Allison is teaching students lifelong leadership skills. Many of her former students continue to take on leadership roles throughout high school and beyond.
 

Nathan Phillips — Fairmeadows Elementary, First Grade Teacher

Nathan makes a PAWSitive impact every day by demonstrating excellence in his first year of teaching.

Educating: He is excelling in his day-to-day work by meeting students’ diverse needs through effective, small-group instruction and providing purposeful practice for learners  when they are not working directly with a teacher. Empowering and Inspiring: Nathan interacts with students in such a kind and respectful way that it naturally empowers them. This is clearly seen as he kindly redirects and genuinely celebrates students’ hard work. His positive engagement inspires students to strive for their best.

Wider Impact: Outside of the classroom, Nathan is reflective and engaged in professional learning with his new teacher colleagues, demonstrating his commitment to growth and leadership within WDMCS. WDMCS is truly lucky to have Nathan as part of our team of leaders and learners.
 

Carol Rushing — Learning Resource Center, Executive Administrative Assistant

Carol’s unwavering dedication and service to WDMCS are truly admirable and inspiring. For nearly 25 years, she has been a steadfast presence in our district, always ready to step in and support wherever she’s needed. Her commitment to our students, staff, and families shines through in everything she does. Carol’s positive attitude, willingness to help in any situation, and calming presence in the often unpredictable world of HR make her an invaluable member of our team and a model of what it means to serve with heart and professionalism.
 

Sarah Schaefer — Crossroads Park Elementary, Executive Administrative Assistant

I would like to nominate Ms. Schaefer for her outstanding dedication and excellence in teaching. I had the privilege of observing her in the classroom during fun activities with the kids, and I was truly impressed by her incredible patience and commitment to her students. She takes the time to ensure that each child understands their tasks, rather than simply going through the motions. This thoughtful approach fosters real learning and confidence in her students.

My daughter, Lucy, absolutely loves school and her class because of Ms. Schaefer’s positive influence. Her enthusiasm for learning has grown tremendously, and as a result, she is picking up skills like reading and counting very quickly. Ms. Schaefer creates an environment where children feel supported, engaged, and excited to learn, which is a gift that will benefit them for years to come.

Ms. Schaefer’s dedication, patience, and ability to inspire a love of learning make her an exceptional teacher who truly deserves recognition.
 

Becky Simpson — Valley High School, Attendance Secretary

Becky makes a PAWSitive impact by educating, empowering, and inspiring students every day through her unwavering commitment to both our students and the broader school community. She consistently goes above and beyond her role by building authentic, trusting relationships with students and families and ensuring that every individual feels seen, supported, and valued. Becky takes the time to understand students’ academic, social, and emotional needs and works proactively to remove barriers to learning by connecting families with resources that help them thrive both in and beyond school. Her advocacy ensures that students are not only successful in the classroom, but also supported in all areas of their lives.

In addition, Becky strengthens our school culture through her intentional collaboration and genuine care for colleagues. She regularly checks in with staff, offers encouragement, and brings humor and steady support to daily interactions. Becky’s leadership is a vital contribution to the culture of Valley’s main office, helping ensure it remains a warm, welcoming, and responsive environment for all who walk through its doors.
 

Cassandra Thomas — Westridge Elementary, Kindergarten teacher

Cassandra is a teacher who builds relationships with her students using love as a foundation as evidenced by the sign in her window facing EP True. She is extremely proud of and grateful for her students, and believes she has the most important job on Earth. In a recent communication, she shared, “I’m so lucky to spend my days with the future!” She is an example of a teacher who “gets it” and understands the importance of her presence and role in our district.
 

Megan Thompson — Learning Resource Center, Youth and Adult Program Coordinator, Community Education

Megan has done an outstanding job going above and beyond to create fun and engaging after-school opportunities for all our kids at Crossroads Park. She has helped me plan out what I can teach and is always willing to do what she needs to support me. This has helped me connect with so many students and create fun experiences outside of the classroom. She works super hard to make sure I am supported and ALWAYS has a positive attitude that is coupled with patience. She deserves every bit of praise for her ability to help others.
 

Jazmin Tobar — Crestview School of Inquiry, Family Engagement Specialist

Jazmin is the heartbeat of Crestview. She planned, created, and works in our food pantry that had over 200 visits just in the month of December! She connects families with resources, supports all staff in making connections with families, and helps to improve our building attendance by making home calls daily to both English- and Spanish-speaking families. She also works with students to build social-emotional skills and implements interventions with students as needed. Jazmin is a resource to all. She has boundless energy and passion which is contagious. We could not do what we do without her at our school. Thank you Jazmin for EVERYTHING that you do each and every day!
 

Andrew Vance — Operations, Assistant Director of Transportation

Andrew’s exceptional dedication and tireless efforts in preparing our department for the start of the school year were nothing short of extraordinary. The start of a new school year is a monumental task, and Andrew was the driving force behind our department’s success.

He demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, working incredibly long hours, including weekends, to ensure every route was meticulously planned and finalized. His hard work was instrumental in placing our department in such a strong position for opening day. His hard work, attention to detail, and commitment to our department and district are invaluable. Andrew’s work is consistently A+, and he exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated team member.
 

Lori VanLo — Indian Hills Junior High, Principal’s Administrative Assistant

Lori is a powerhouse! The Indian Hills office is a well-oiled machine and so much of that is because of Lori. Not only does she help manage attendance, schedules, and budgets, but she helps find coverage for classes when we are short on subs. She also recently helped plan the annual Indian Hills Retiree Breakfast. These are just a few of the many tasks Lori helps manage. Lori takes great care of our staff and students. We are so lucky to have her!
 

Jay VanThournout — Valley Southwoods, CTE Teacher

Jay is truly seen for the incredible dedication, heart, and hard work they have consistently given to our department and other areas.

Jay has poured so much time and care into organizing and setting up our teacher area — not just completing a task, but creating a space that supports all of us. So much of what Jay does goes unseen: the behind-the-scenes effort, the small details they take care of without being asked, the way they quietly make things smoother for everyone around them. Their work has made a real difference for me and for our team.

I especially want to acknowledge something they did in December. Jay was up at 6 a.m. to help prepare for a field trip they weren’t even attending. That level of selflessness and dedication is rare, and it honestly meant a lot to me. It speaks to the kind of colleague and human being Jay is.

Working beside Jay and co-teaching with them has been one of the highlights of my time here. Their support, positivity, and willingness to step up have made a tremendous impact, and I wanted to be sure that their efforts don’t go unnoticed.

 

Cassie Walker — Indian Hills Junior High, Vocal Music Director

Mrs. Walker is an amazing choir teacher and friend who always encourages us and helps us believe in ourselves. She makes the choir room a place where everyone feels welcome and supported, no matter our skill level. Because of her guidance and positivity, we’ve all grown so much — not just as singers, but as people. Mrs. Walker inspires us to try our best and makes us excited to learn and perform every day. This district is incredibly lucky to have an awesome teacher and trusted adult, and that person is undoubtedly Mrs. Cassie Walker.
 

Amy Warlop — Crossroads Park Elementary, Second Grade Teacher

Mrs. Warlop has made a tremendous impact on students’ confidence, excitement, and happiness in school. She is supportive, patient, and believes in her students. She sees students’ strengths and celebrates them. Her classroom management creates a space that is comfortable and safe for learning. Our student comes home each day excited to share about projects and stories from Mrs. Warlop!
 

Brett Zeller — Learning Resource Center, Director of Business Services

Brett works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure we are being fiscally responsible. He is willing to answer any question thrown his way and responds in a service-minded manner. Brett, we appreciate all you do to make WDMCS run each and every day!