December 18 – RISE nominations

“Mrs. Gull has been one of my biggest supporters with me grieving my mother’s passing. She was one of the first people that I told. Her room was always welcoming to me when I first came to Skyridge as a sophomore. I went to Mrs. Gull when I heard the news and she helped me contact all my teachers and contact the counselors. Mrs. Gull’s room is my safe space. Knowing that she is there for me has helped my high school experience become something special that I can look back on later instead of something sour.“

Nominated by: Katelyn Kendrick, student

“Kami is one of the most gentle, kind and patient individuals I know. She ALWAYS treats each student, parent, staff or other coming in the office with a gentle kind voice. She is precise and efficient at her work and has the most kind caring heart! She directly interacts with multiple students and staff a day and always answers with calmness and brings a presence of peace. Thank you for being there for us, Kami!“

Nominated by: Katie Shelley, district employee

“Mrs. Williams absolutely deserves a RISE award nomination for her outstanding dedication and passion for teaching. Not only does she possess a wealth of knowledge in her subject area, but she goes above and beyond to ensure that each student truly comprehends the material.“

Nominated by: Rilyn Strange, student

“Aimee is a bus driver for our school. There was a pretty serious altercation on the bus and a student lashed out at Aimee in response. Aimee handled the situation with poise and professionalism. Her actions diffused an incredibly volatile situation.“

Nominated by: Michelle Price, district employee

“My son loves Ms. Taci. Any time we mention school, he lights up and says with a big smile “Ms. Taci!” After our IEP meeting recently, I felt genuine love from all the staff in the room for my son and I really think Ms. Taci is the glue that holds everyone together. She is always quick to communicate, has a passion for helping my son reach his potential, and has such a fun, positive personality that is contagious.“

Nominated by: Abbigail Harris, parent

“Mrs. Dean went out of her way to attend my son’s primary program at church, demonstrating her remarkable commitment to her students. Her presence not only uplifted him but also encouraged his friends, showing how deeply she cares about their growth. She consistently creates a nurturing atmosphere where every child feels valued and inspired to shine. Mrs. Dean’s selflessness and dedication make her an extraordinary teacher, and her support has truly made a lasting impact on my son and our family. Nominating her would be a heartfelt way to recognize her incredible influence.“

Nominated by: Vanessa Pouesi, parent

“Ms. Dean has taken my son in and loved him with her whole heart. He has a really hard time at school with anxiety and ADHD and can be a difficult student as he needs more one on one help. I have fears as a parent that that will create resentment between the teacher and student, but she erased all my fears after we cried together over our love for him.”

Nominated by: Nicole Smith, parent

“KC Kiser is an exemplary teacher. Her calm demeanor creates a safe space for students and co-workers alike to trust her and work with her. She creates a fun educational environment for her students to learn. Children in her class feel like they are allowed to be themselves and grow. Her dedication to students is evident in her kindness, well-planned lessons, and relationships that she builds. KC is an exceptional educator and deserves a shout out for all of her service and dedication.“

Nominated by: Marshell Olson, district employee

“Mrs. Cryer always has a happy, uplifting smile when you first walk in and she knows most of the kids by name. She recognizes parents when they walk in and she truly cares about the school and all who are in it. She sends out all of the school reminders and works hard everyday. She’s an inspiration.“

Nominated by: Jessika Davis, parent

“Mr. Bynum is the best! He makes it fun to learn even when it could be a boring subject. He makes everything interesting. He’s funny, listens to good music, cares about the kids, and gets to know each one of them. If you don’t understand something he always takes the time to teach it to you in a way that makes sense to you. When you have a bad grade he talks to you about what you did wrong and how you can fix it. I’m so glad he’s my teacher!“

Nominated by: Keenan Foster, student

“Mr. Beck has been an outstanding music teacher the past few years. He connects with the kids and makes class so much fun for them. He loves to make the kids laugh by telling Dad jokes. He makes a difference in their lives. His class has been my child’s favorite class for the past few years and it’s not hard to see why when you meet Mr. Beck. He is always encouraging the kids and has been great to help the kids even when he doesn’t have to. He’s been great to work with as a parent and he always answers even when it’s been on his personal time. We appreciate him as a teacher.“

Nominated by: Jessika Davis, parent

“Ms. McKinzie is dedicated to teach with love and care. My son remembers her with so much love that is touching to the heart.“

Nominated by: Patricia Ruffinengo, parent

“Ms. Ivie is a great teacher and makes sure everyone is included and is okay with everything.“

Nominated by: Brittlynn Lescarbeau, student

“Mr. Scholle has created an amazing club at our school called the “International Foods Club.” Every month, members of this after-school program taste foods from different countries, mingle, and discuss cultures. At the first meeting, Mr. Scholle already knew all the members’ names. He continually creates safe, fun, organized, educational environments where students feel safe to meet new people and try new things. When Mr. Scholle walks down the hall, all the students light up and are happy to be recognized by him. What a great teacher!“

Nominated by: Brittni Smith, parent and district employee

“Mr. Sorenson is funny and kind. He communicates with students, parents, and his co-workers (teachers). He is nice while being very honest. He relates to when he was a student, so he knows that homework sucks, and there are very bad people in the world. He definitely should deserve the RISE Awards because he teaches three different classes, and he tries to know each of his students personally. He is very understanding to others and their life. He is the basketball coach for our school, and he is probably one of the most encouraging coaches anyone could have. His students love him.“

Nominated by: Brenley Becker, student

“My son is in 5th grade going through an extremely stressful phase of family shifts and his mother (my) health also having a uniquely difficult moment. Mrs. Whipple reached out to see if there was something going on instead of just assuming my son is a trouble maker or always reacts this way. My background is in education and I appreciated this immensely.“

Nominated by: Kristin Taylor, parent

“I’ve been so impressed with Ms. Dulong’s positive attitude and passion for what she’s teaching. She’s been able to find the good in my son (who has struggled socially in the classroom for years) and really bring out the best in him. Two of my children have had or currently have one of her classes and they both really enjoy her class and learn so much! She challenges them to step outside their comfort zone and learn from books and writings that don’t normally or naturally interest them. You can tell she loves what she teaches and who she teaches! I’m grateful for teachers like her!“

Nominated by: Amber Omer, parent

“Leslie has been the front office secretary at Lake Mountain since last year. How she manages all the chaos of a front office is amazing. She’s very friendly & respectful to all the people who come through the office & knows our kids. Leslie is doing a most excellent job!“

Nominated by: Danny & Kelly Horne, parents

“Mrs. Cooper is remarkable in so many ways. She made the biggest impact for my child who previously had a hard year. Seeing the difference in his motivation to wake up and go to school each day spoke volumes to her character. She inspired me by always showing up for the kids in her class. She was selfless in planning and working and reaching out to make sure each student felt special and important. She was encouraging to me as a parent, as she spoke highly of her students and showed that she believed in their goodness. My child still speaks so highly of her and I feel so lucky we had her.“

Nominated by: Dana Ramsay, parent

“Gabe is an incredible professional! His custodial duties are always done with excellence. He exudes enthusiasm and appreciation for all around him! He’s outside with students int he morning, making funny artistic posters to greet students several times a week, and will stop and help anyone with anything at a moment’s notice. He makes a HUGE difference at Cedar Valley Elementary and we are the most fortunate school in the district to have GABE!“

Nominated by: Denece Fitzgerald, district employee

“Kim is a supportive and inspirational leader! Not only is she a strong and committed principal but she is also a wise learning partner who consciously strives to bring out the best in people. She ensures everyone has the opportunity to succeed in their role and while seeking to grow herself. I am so honored to work with her!“

Nominated by: Jannica Pozuelos, district employee

“Kim Plank is a dedicated principal whose thoughtful approach to every situation sets her apart. She is a whole-hearted advocate for students, always prioritizing their needs and supporting their well-being at school. Kim demonstrates an unwavering commitment to staying present, even in the most challenging circumstances, in order to validate a student, listen to an employee, address a parent’s concerns, and fully understand the situation at hand. Her ability to balance empathy with determination makes her a remarkable person and leader.”

Nominated by: Zach Eagar, district employee

“Brian is an incredible leader of his school because he really listens to his employees. He is very humble and will listen to others who have expertise in different areas; this really empowers his employees to get involved and contribute to the school. River Rock has an incredible culture of unity and cooperation, and Brian’s leadership has been critical to that schoolwide culture.“

Nominated by: Jen Baeza, district employee

“Zach has put in tireless hours meeting with parents and schools to welcome a plethora of new students to Alpine School District, ensuring that transportation is set up and families are comfortable with the location for services as well as create a special education website that allows the department to provide information to schools, to paras, teachers, and administrators for convenience. This project has been completed in addition to the many responsibilities he has.“

Nominated by: Ryan Burke, district employee

“Melanie has spent years supporting teams and students all over the district. Her support ranges from coaching to getting into the classrooms and running interventions herself. When she makes recommendations to teams, she commits to the support and does not just run to the school. Her positive attitude is contagious and her commitment to students is unwavering.“

Nominated by: Elena Mitchell, district employee

“Amy goes above and beyond to make sure the special education teachers that she coaches have the support they need to be successful. She understands that helping them have the tools and knowledge they need positively effects all the students they serve. Amy also strives to make sure that IEP paperwork is done correctly and aligns with state and district standards. She is a wonderful coach and an asset to the Alpine School District Special Education Preschool Team!“

Nominated by: Traci Boulter, district employee

“Amy is always willing to help wherever she is needed. She is very knowledgable and ensures the teachers she supports are getting their needs met and have the tools they need to be successful! Even when I need additional support, she is so positive and kind! I am glad we get to work together again this school year!”

Nominated by: Shannon Marie, district employee

“Joanna serves as the heart of the Alpine District assessment center. She supports teachers, parents, students, coaches, and service providers in meeting the needs of 3-5 year old students that are served throughout our district. She helps many families have a positive “first experience” with Alpine School District and public education. She calms many fears and worries of parents. She goes above and beyond, making home visits when needed, often outside of office hours, to ensure students in need of services do not fall through the cracks. Her impact is far and wide!!“

Nominated by: district employee

“Joanna is so quick and helpful any time I have a question. Not many folks know all the things that happen at the ECE Assessment center, but she gets to meet with every family that comes through to ensure they have the best placement and services for their child. Thanks for your kindness and all you do!”

Nominated by: Shannon Marie, district employee

“Dave has been a bus driver at our school for multiple years. He is beloved by our children. Dave is kind, reliable, and proactive. He always wears a smile and helps the short bus ride to and from our school become a memorable experience for our children. As he was patiently awaiting more students to get on his bus this week, I saw him helping a kindergartener fix her backpack. He lovingly fixed it and then returned it to the child with a smile. Dave is a great asset to our school, and we are so grateful to him!“

Nominated by: Megan Rincon, district employee

“Our PLC coach is Mrs. Snow. We could sum up Mrs. Snow’s job as supporting and assisting all faculty and staff with their instructional needs. Mrs. Snow goes above and beyond even that, though. She is kind, intelligent, and thoughtful in her approach to helping others. Mrs. Snow met with all PLC teams this summer to help them analyze data and set team goals. She trains aides and oversees tiered instruction in our school. She is warm and welcoming and helps everyone feel loved and supported. Mrs. Snow is integral to our success at Liberty Hills and we are grateful for her!”

Nominated by: Megan Rincon, district employee

“James Clemesha is our school social worker. He’s new to our school this year and we couldn’t have asked for a better teammate. James never forgets who his priorities are to help: students, parents, and faculty. He is knowledgeable, organized, professional, and caring. All families have times where they need extra love and support to navigate tricky and often unexpected challenges. James’ manner of support is so inviting and calm that I have seen parents and children show signs of visible relief after meeting with him. James is a blessing to our community and school.“

Nominated by: Megan Rincon, district employee

“Mr. Shelley makes learning fun! He is incredible about making students excited for his class and the concepts they are learning. He takes the time to help students understand the material and to show them where they might be struggling.“

Nominated by: Chela Jenkins, student

“I am a senior in high school and Mr. Shelley is still the single teacher who has influenced me the most. He cares about his students and always takes the time to help them.”

Nominated by: Quentin Melanson, student

“Mr. Larson gives out candy when you do good on a test and for doing good things.“

Nominated by: Michael Walker, student

“Mrs. Orr is amazing! She helped my anxious child after a hard year, she taught her we can have rough emotions and still thrive! She is a safe place for all emotions and will work so hard to teach them. She loves every student!“

Nominated by: Stacy Stevens, parent

“Mrs. McEwan sees children’s potential and adapts to their needs to help them succeed rather than labeling the child as a problem. She has gone above and beyond to help these children to feel smart, supported, and empowered.”

Nominated by: Kiersten Gordon, parent

“Ms. Petersen has been so uplifting and helpful to me and lots of students! She runs math lab almost every day after school to help kids who are struggling. Not only that she waits at the door every morning at school and greets kids as they come in welcoming them to “another great day at Canyon View!” I’ve only gotten help from her a couple times but both times she had helped me a lot and made math easier. She is really encouraging and always says “you’re doing awesome!.”“

Nominated by: Marianne Wagstaff, student

“Ana has been such an effective and swift McKinney Vento coordinator. The students whose names we have submitted have been carefully and quickly vetted and so many of the applicants have received approval for this vital program. As a registrar, it is comforting to know that the needs of some of our most vulnerable students are being met so early in the school year. It eases the worries and concerns of the students and their families. Ana has made a significant difference in the process of McKinney Vento!“

Nominated by: Tiffany Olds, district employee

“Rachel Bennett is always kind, caring and patient, even during the hardest situations! She’s had a rough year, and even when anyone else in her situation would have quit, she keeps coming with a smile on her face!“

Nominated by: Megan Shurtz, parent

“Ms. Richards is a great teacher! She is kind and patient!”

Nominated by: Megan Shurtz, parent

“Mr. Morley is kind and always makes everyone feel appreciated, special, and loved. He’s a great teacher and a great human being!”

Nominated by: Bri Richards, district employee

“Mr. Morley cares so much for his students and their families. He has been a support for our family through all the years we have been at Pony. He is willing to work hard to help you achieve your goals while empowering you to do the best you can. He listens when you are having a hard time and makes you feel cared for so you can continue to improve and better yourself. He is a very special human who makes the world a kinder place all around him. We are all lucky to have him as a part of our lives and our community. Thank you.”

Nominated by: Jessie Shepherd, parent

“I want to nominate Cade Hall for the RISE Award. Cade has the joy of watching bus videos and then editing clips for reports and bus incidents. Cade is quick to respond when a video is requested. I appreciate that he edits the clips so I don’t have to watch the whole bus ride, just the portions needed. Cade sends professional emails in a timely manner. Thank you Cade for completing this task and always helping!“

Nominated by: Shari Taylor, district employee

“Izzy Wilson is our new media specialist this year and is so dedicated to making the library a fun and engaging environment for everyone. The time and thought she has put into some of the library projects is so admirable and how she really wants to make literacy and reading an exciting thing for all students! Our teachers love her fun energy with the kids, and her willingness to work collaboratively with them to support my students. Our students more than love Miss Izzy and are excited to visit the library each week and learn about books and library skills!“

Nominated by: Caroline Knadler, district employee

“Barratt would be absolutely lost without sixth grade teacher Stacy Watkins. Not only is she an extraordinary teacher, but she is also our student council advisor and the chair of our behavior intervention team. It is fun to see Stacy incorporate those two roles and use our student council to help reinforce our school behavior expectations. Additionally, Stacy is one of those go to people for our entire faculty & staff. She is always willing and able to be a listening ear, supporter, advice giver, and helper to all. We are beyond lucky to have Stacy Watkins at Barratt Elementary!!!“

Nominated by: Caroline Knadler, district employee

December 18 – RISE nominations

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