| Kristine Gonzalez, Lannon Elementary School substitute teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Kristine has stepped into a long-term sub role in our building and has excelled. Her energy and enthusiasm make for a great environment. Kristine is reflective in her practices, organized, and very pleasant to work with. Our Lannon community is lucky to have such a competent individual embrace this important role in our school. Thank you, Kristine! |
Christina White, Lannon Elementary School literacy interventionist, was nominated by a co-worker: Christina brings so much expertise and care to her role at Lannon. She builds positive and meaningful connections with students. Christina’s high-expectations are supported with her care and concern for each individual. On top of student connections Christina goes above and beyond to add to the culture of the building. She regularly plans and contributes to staff celebrations and school-wide events. We are lucky she is a part of the LannFam. |
Dr. Christine Woywod Veettil, Maple Avenue Elementary School art teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Christine goes above and beyond for every student at Maple. My students absolutely love going to art. She is always positive and encouraging, and plans engaging lessons. Recently we asked Christine to help with a Mother’s Day craft. She did everything she could to make sure every first grader had a special clay pot to give their mom. Christine regularly comes in on her day off, and she did this to make sure our pots were finished on time. I feel so grateful to work with Christine! |
Katie Ritchie, Silver Spring Intermediate School associate principal, was nominated by co-workers: Katie is relentless – May is a time for administrators where things get crazy (more than the normal crazy). Katie’s positive energy DOES NOT STOP. She takes each situation and responds with thoughtfulness and heart. Katie keeps people first in all she does and students always know they are her #1 priority. Our world could use more Katies and we’re so glad she’s ours 🙂 Katie is an energizing force at SSI! Her enthusiasm and motivation are contagious to those around her. She is a supportive leader who really listens to concerns her staff brings to her and works to find solutions. Katie is a team player, and I know I can count on her to be there when I need her. I feel extremely fortunate to work under such an incredible leader! |
Tanya Selestow, Silver Spring Intermediate School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Tanya is hardworking, caring and tenaciously dedicated to her students. She efficiently and effectively includes students with special education needs in the general education classroom and provides opportunities for all to be engaged in the learning. She has high expectations for all students and helps those around her to see how much they are all capable of. She forms real and deep connections with kids and works tirelessly to ensure each child has what they need to be successful. |
Chris Botsford, Silver Spring Intermediate School fitness education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Chris (or Bots) is such an enjoyable coworker/friend to be around. He’s supportive, thoughtful, and a team player as well. He knows just how to build positive relationships with adults and students in our building, and he always does it with a smile. SSI is so fortunate to have Chris as part of our team! |
Zachary Welch, Silver Spring Intermediate School fifth grade math and science teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Zach is such a positive, balancing force to those around him. He’s professional, thoughtful, and kindhearted. Zach is one of those quiet leaders that leads by example. It’s obvious that his students love having him as a teacher, and I can see why. I’m thankful that Zach is part of our SSI science and math team! |
Deanna Wellens, Silver Spring Intermediate School principal, was nominated by a co-worker: Deanna is an amazing leader, and SSI is beyond fortunate to have her as our principal! She is a great role-model that motivates us to give our very best, yet she also reminds us to find balance in our lives. She is a self-reflective person who works to be the best leader she can be. It’s not unusual to see Deanna making her rounds through the building so that she can continue to build relationships with staff and students. I feel very lucky to have such a positive and caring leader! |
Helen Geracie, Hamilton High School guidance counselor, was nominated by a co-worker: Helen is not only a counselor, but also serves as our AP Coordinator. This school year there were over 650 AP tests given. She has worked tirelessly over the entire school year to ensure that testing went smoothly. Coordinating both virtual and in-person tests for students, proctoring, ordering, and fees are just a few of the tasks she’s managed. Helen spent many extra hours before and after her regular work day. Helen is very organized and detail-orientated and did a fantastic job with AP! |
Marquea Goike, Silver Spring Intermediate School sixth grade math and science teacher, was nominated by a parent: Marquea has continued to support my daughter throughout the year of virtual learning. She makes learning fun and exciting for my daughter through the computer by her enthusiasm. She is always ready to help explain any misconceptions that my daughter has and I appreciate her dedication! |
Kristy Laurich, Silver Spring Intermediate School sixth grade math and science teacher, was nominated by a parent: Mrs. Laurich has been consistently dedicated to helping my daughter navigate virtual learning. She continues to reach out when my daughter is struggling to keep up. So glad that my daughter was able to share the virtual school experience with her as her teacher. |
Jenifer Maier-Ortlieb, Silver Spring Intermediate School sixth grade humanities teacher, was nominated by a parent: Jenifer has continued to reach out for concern about my daughter keeping up with virtual learning. She has set expectations that will be valuable for my daughter as she moves to the middle school. We appreciate her dedication to helping my daughter succeed! |
Lianna Brice, Maple Avenue Elementary School music teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Lianna is a talented musician, wonderful teacher, great co-worker. I admire the calm, peaceful presence she brings to our corner of the building each afternoon. I also really appreciate the moments she takes after school to check in and chat about the day. Lianna is always willing to bounce around ideas for ways we can collaborate and make experiences extra special for our students, too! |
Becky Vaughn, Woodside Elementary School art teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Becky is one of the hardest working people I know. Not only did she teach in-person students at two elementary schools this year, but she taught online students, and mentored a student teacher. Amazingly, Becky continued to document and post beautiful student work to her school Artsonia page and think through revised report card standards for elementary art. I always learn something new when I have the opportunity to be in a meeting with her and I am grateful to work with her. |
Sara Viloria, Marcy Elementary School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Sara goes above and beyond to really know her special needs’ students and meet the needs of students in the general education classroom. Her positive attitude, amazing approach to working with each student and her collaborative nature within the classroom set her far above the rest! She is always willing to help out with any task in the classroom and gains respect from ALL students through her wonderful, calm, patient demeanor. We have all been truly blessed to have her in our classroom! |
Sara Grunzel, Woodside Elementary School reading specialist, was nominated by a co-worker: Sara is a positive addition to our reading team. She brings expertise, professionalism, and compassion to her role as a reading specialist. In a short amount of time, she has taken on a respected role as a leader. She is the first to accomplish tasks and take initiative to move the team forward. She leads with a passion always thinking about what is best for kids and best practice. Her energy and smile radiates to create a safe learning environment for her students and colleagues. |
Kevin Lawson, Hamilton School District data and assessment specialist, was nominated by a co-worker: Kevin always goes out of his way to help someone and continually displays a positive attitude. Being new to the district, he eagerly volunteered to be an HHS Minute Mentor and has gone above and beyond the expectations to be a positive role model and help foster student success. |
Kalyn Graziano, Hamilton High School administrative assistant, was nominated by a co-worker: Kalyn always goes out of her way to help someone and continually displays a positive attitude. She is eager to be a part of the school community and volunteered to be an HHS Minute Mentor to be a positive role model and help foster student success. |
Bobbie Semrow, Silver Spring Intermediate School administrative assistant, was nominated by a co-worker: Bobbie is the sweetest person you’ll ever meet! As you come into the office, she always has a smile or a friendly hello. Her caring personality goes far beyond the office. She is a joy to work with and a very efficient office staff. Wouldn’t know what we would do without her! |
| Katie Bernard, Maple Avenue Elementary School fourth grade teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Since joining the Maple staff several years ago, Katie has been a wonderful addition. She truly loves teaching and her enthusiastic thirst for knowledge and hunger for learning inspires her fourth graders to be the very best they can be. Thank you, Katie, for all you do and what you mean to Maple Ave. |
Erin Ridosko, Maple Avenue Elementary School fourth grade teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Erin Ridosko really knows how to teach. Her grasp of the fourth-grade curriculum, innovative lessons, and passion for teaching and learning inspires her students to always try to do their very best. Erin is a beloved member of the Maple staff and her ever positive attitude is infectious. Thank you, Erin, for the positive impact you have on staff and students every day! |
Diana Ruiz, Maple Avenue Elementary School third grade teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Diana Ruiz is a wily veteran teacher that works tirelessly to bring out the very best in her third graders. When you think of Maple Ave, one undoubtedly thinks of Diana Ruiz as an experienced educator who is kind, caring, and passionate about teaching and learning. Thanks, Diana, for being that steady veteran presence at Maple for all these years. |
Sara Gale, Maple Avenue Elementary School kindergarten teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Sara Gale is skilled at creating an inclusive classroom where ALL students experience success. She builds strong working relationships with the special education staff who support her students. Together they adapt instruction to meet students’ needs and foster a learning environment that is cooperative and promotes socialization. Parents are continually impressed with the depth of knowledge that she shares during IEP meetings and the progress that their children make under her direction. |
Dr. Christine Woywod Veettil, Maple Avenue Elementary School art teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Christine continues to go above and beyond to showcase the artistic talents of our Maple Avenue students. Our dull hallways have been transformed into beautiful art galleries. When COVID shut down our Art Crawl, Christine created a Virtual Art Crawl for families to enjoy in the comfort of their own homes. Recently, all staff and students were invited to visit the art exhibit of a talented 4th grade student. Christine has a special gift for making each young artist feel special and valued. |
Tricia Rigg, Hamilton High School guidance counselor, was nominated by a parent: Mrs. Rigg patiently and thoroughly explained the process to help my son get the classes he wants to take next year. She has always been quick to respond to e-mails and both of our kids have always felt comfortable to approach her with questions or for help. We are thankful for her help and guidance. |
Ann Wodarczak, Lannon Elementary School administrative assistant, was nominated by a co-worker: Ann works tirelessly everyday with a smile and a great sense of humor. She is patient with students, helpful to parents, and a fun coworker. She helped train me for a new position at Lannon this year and never gets frustrated if I have a question or need her help. She is always mindful to celebrate the successes of students and staff at Lannon and I am grateful I get to work with her. |
Sheri Pellechia, Hamilton School District occupational therapist, was nominated by co-workers: Sheri is only at our school one day a week and she was gracious enough to come in and help me problem solve about a student. I am so thankful for her time and expertise! She gave me some great, actionable recommendations for in-school as well as some to pass along to parents. We are lucky to have Sheri, even if it’s just one day a week! 🙂 Sheri takes extra time to get to know the unique needs of each of her students. She works with families and school teams to ensure that everyone understands what student supports include and how to implement strategies across all settings. She is positive, caring and hardworking. She’s the best around!! |
Jake DeJarlais, Hamilton High School math teacher, was nominated by a parent: My daughter has not only thrived this year in her math class with Mr. DeJarlais, but actually enjoys the subject now. He differentiates when necessary, gives students multiple opportunities to learn and demonstrate their knowledge, and keeps math interesting and relevant. Thankful for all of his efforts, especially during this crazy year! |
Karen Zielinski, Templeton Middle School eighth grade teacher, was nominated by a parent: Her dedication and positive attitude towards teaching my daughter and making her feel appreciated as a student. Thank you for going above and beyond as an educator! We appreciate you more than you know. |
Kristy Laurich, Silver Spring Intermediate School sixth grade math and science teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Kristy is an amazing teacher, a supportive advocate for our students, and all around an amazing person to work with. She is a model for all around her! Blessed to work with her! |
Joseph Premo, Hamilton High School applied engineering and technology teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Joe took four hours of his Friday evening to travel to Menards with me and help get materials for our construction classes this semester. It was a huge task to get lumber, siding, roofing, and hardware that is needed, and I would not have been able to get everything without his help. |
John Plese, Templeton Middle School fitness education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: John is always very complimentary and promotes a positive environment in all of his interactions. |
Paul Schmidt, Silver Spring Intermediate School sixth grade math and science teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: For thinking of me and my colleague recently with a gift of our favorite pencils. It was such a nice gesture. |
Deb Figueroa, Hamilton High School communication arts teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Deb is such a fantastic educator and a role model to us all. She’s so knowledgeable, such a great resource, and always willing to listen or lend a hand. I will surely miss her next year. |
Marquea Goike, Silver Spring Intermediate School sixth grade math and science teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Marquea has gone above and beyond to build relationships with her students. She works hard to get to know each student as an individual and to ensure that they feel connected to the school community even though they are in a virtual environment. She is responsive to the unique needs of all learners, is understanding, empathetic and appreciates students for who they are. Our district is lucky to have someone as committed, hardworking, talented and positive as Marquea. |
Michelle Prei, Silver Spring Intermediate School math support, was nominated by a co-worker: Michelle values relationships with students and staff. With students who are struggling, she always has a patient approach that puts them at ease and she never gives up on them. Michelle goes out of her way to help others and is a reliable supportive co-worker to so many. I’ve enjoyed getting to work with Michelle daily and appreciate her knowledge, guidance, and friendship. SSI is so lucky to have her! |
Lorie Block, Silver Spring Intermediate custodial staff member, was nominated by a co-worker: I truly enjoy seeing Lorie each day when she comes to clean my classroom. Not only is she a kind person, but a very harder worker. And she does her job with a smile! Lorie isn’t one of those people who just goes through the motions. She takes pride in her job and wants others to be happy with their clean rooms and school. I appreciate all that she does for SSI, and we are very lucky to have her here! |
Sarah Marsh, Hamilton High School custodial staff member, was nominated by a co-worker: Sarah is an extremely hard worker who puts the time and effort into her job. She believes in getting it done right and does what it takes to keep our classrooms and school clean and ready for learning. Sarah also has a great sense of humor, loves to interact with staff, and is always willing to help when needed. We are very fortunate that she is part of the SSI staff! |
Lisa Merritt, Silver Spring Intermediate School special education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: If you know Lisa, then you know her contagious smile and laugh! I’ve been fortunate enough to work with Lisa for many years, and she never ceases to amaze me with her patience, knowledge, and drive! Every school should have a Lisa Merritt because she is such a positive force to have, and our special education students thrive under her instruction. SSI is blessed to have Lisa as part of its staff! |
Liz Rose, Silver Spring Intermediate School administrative assistant, was nominated by a co-worker: With SSI being a new school last year, Liz was placed in a very challenging office role, and then COVID happened. This year, I’ve noticed that Liz has had a chance to settle into her job and has become a valued member of the SSI staff. The position Liz holds is no easy task, and it has been wonderful to watch the growth she has made this year. She continues to work hard to get to know staff and is always willing to help! |
Jen Butscher, Woodside Elementary School first grade teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Jen is always willing to lend a helping hand. When I forgot my lunch, she picked up one for me on the way to work. She is also a great listener and I always feel better after talking with her. Jen, you rock!!!! |
Cathy Seifert, Willow Springs Learning Center instructional and supervision paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Cathy has taken on the challenges of this year with a positive attitude and continues to focus on what is best for each child. She is a hard worker and completes tasks quickly, brings new ideas and assists with all of the tasks in the classroom. Cathy makes each day that she is in the classroom enjoyable for everyone. |
Stacey Benson, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Stacey has done an excellent job of supporting several students to be emotionally and academically ready for the day. She has developed great rapport with them and has played a major part in their success this spring! |
Annette Busalacchi, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Annette is committed to inclusion and has done an excellent job supporting a student in successfully transitioning to full-time at Templeton. Annette works hard to support all students within Social Studies and Science. |
Zachary Beckman, Templeton Middle School special education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Zach has cultivated trusting relationships with parents and nurturing connections with students. He enthusiastically shares his experiences, knowledge, and perspectives with our department. Zach is an essential and valued member of our special education team at TMS. |
Nanette Kern, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Nanette is a dedicated, nurturing, and talented member of our TMS team. She has great relationships with the students she works with. They know they can count on her to understand their unique needs. Nanette has skillfully worked with virtual and in-person students this year. She has done a fabulous job supporting students with special needs to grow academically, emotionally, and socially. You are GREATLY appreciated!! |
Timothy Ferschl, Lannon Elementary School custodial staff member, was nominated by a co-worker: Tim is a friendly face at Lannon, his attention to detail (small and large) is apparent. He is so personable and just a super cool guy! Lannon is SO lucky to have him, thank you for all of your hard work Tim, we appreciate you here at Lannon! |
Ellen Smith, Templeton Middle School speech pathologist, was nominated by a co-worker: Ellen is always willing to collaborate and be an advocate for our students. She is so wonderful to work with and I am so excited to continue our partnership! |
Ariane Fischer, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Ariane is always willing to do whatever she is asked to help students. She is an amazing paraprofessional and is always coming up with great ideas to help. Looking forward to working with you next year! You are not only a great co-worker, but also a great friend! I am thankful for you! |
Angie Kolesari, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Angie is always willing to think outside the box and encourage our reluctant learners to try harder. She is organized and is always communicating which is essential for our student success! Thank you for being a great co-worker! |
Kris Gardipee, Templeton Middle School special education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Kris is always willing to do what is best for our students. She is a great co-worker and I am so glad to be able to work alongside her this year! Her dedication is an inspiration to me! |
Laura Busch, Lannon Elementary School technology integration resource, was nominated by a co-worker: Laura is incredible! She is always willing to assist me with any technology project. Her knowledge of technology has fostered my growth as an educator. She is a true collaborator. My students are fully engaged in her lessons and she aligns and implements the units they are studying. Laura is an essential part of the Lannon family! |
Cheryl Schroeder, Hamilton High School publications paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Her lighthearted, thoughtful idea about highlighting people’s pets. Very often it was the highlight of my day and provided a cool opportunity for me to connect with other teachers. Thank you, Cheryl! |
Cynthia Dow, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Cindy is very kind and patient even when working with the most challenging students with special needs. She offers to help others whenever they need something. She is a great team player! Thanks for all of your help! |
Michelle Mattheis, Templeton Middle School special services paraprofessional, was nominated by a co-worker: Michelle greets people every morning with a smile no matter what is happening in her day. She is very positive with her students and she goes above and beyond to make sure they have a good day at school. She helps them be successful in their classes while teaching them independence at the same time. She is a fantastic teammate!! |
Kristin Seizer, Templeton Middle School special education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Kirstin- thank you for being such a caring, trusting member of our Special Ed team! You always look at the bright side of things and put a positive twist on things that others would not be able to see. You are always willing to lend a helping hand, an ear to listen to other people’s problems, or offer infamous words of wisdom to both your students and co-workers. You are an inspirational leader in our department! Thank you for being such a great teacher and friend to all of us! |
Sarah Pichler, Templeton Middle School special education teacher, was nominated by a co-worker: Sarah is passionate about her students and is committed to inclusion. She helped organize awareness like the autism t-shirts. |