Previously published on October 14, 2022
Richard Twohig, Building Service Technician @ Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School
“This summer, Richard went above and beyond to prepare our building for the school year. He worked outside of his normal workday to ensure everything was ready to go. Richard is truly a dedicated member of our team. He is a friendly face to everyone he sees and is always kind and respectful. Richard puts 110% into everything he does every day. Thank you, Richard, for all you do. You are appreciated!”
Nicole Merchant, SPED Teacher @ Morningside STEM Elementary School
A parent said the following about Nicole: “Nicole worked with my son for two years while he was on an IEP. She believed in him and how he was progressing, and she did an amazing job giving me notes and papers to work with him at home to be successful. My son now can have conversations with others and is working on sentences. His progress in development is thanks to Nicole. She tried idea after idea to see what my son responded well to. He had an amazing teacher for two years. She truly holds a special space in our hearts. As a mother we want our children to be successful in life and thanks to teachers like Nicole they can be!”
Juanita Evans, Food Service @ Morningside STEM Elementary School
A parent said the following about Juanita: “Juanita is genuinely kind and loving. My children adore her. She always has a smile and kind words for the kids. I am so glad she is at Morningside STEM Elementary. We are very fortunate to have her!”
Courtney Jungers, Kindergarten Teacher @ Hunt A+ Arts Elementary School
“Ms. Jungers is a dedicated and positive employee who pours her heart into our Hunt Tigers year after year. Her cheerful disposition is something staff, students, and families love about her. She is always willing to share her resources with her colleagues, regardless of how busy she is. Ms. Jungers is a vital piece of our building leadership team, and she is always willing to share her ideas and present professional development. Her hard work is evident in her students’ growth socially, emotionally, and academically.”
Carin Burkhart, Registrar @ East High School
“Carin does an amazing job of running the office, which helps keep East High School afloat. She takes on extra duties when needed and carries them out with a smile. She is also very efficient and kind. Carin is like the energizer bunny because she doesn’t stop until the job is done and done well. She truly ensures that everyone is taken care of and has what they need to be successful. Congratulations, Carin!”
Dave Dreessen, Assistant Principal @ East High School
“Dave cares about East High School to the core. Regardless of what is thrown at him on a daily basis, he does everything with a smile. Dave has an open-door policy and does what he can to provide staff with helpful advice. He is also a life changer for his students and their parents. Dave is dependable, which makes him a great leader at East High School. Your work does not go unnoticed, Dave!”
Nicole Ruhrer-Johnson, Science Teacher @ East Middle School
“We are grateful to have Nicole at East Middle. She works hard to create lessons that actively engage her students. Nicole provides a positive learning environment and builds strong relationships with her students. She makes learning fun and engaging. We appreciate all you do and we are so glad you’re here!”
Kate Schiller, Teacher Librarian & Yearbook Advisor @ West High School
Students at West High School nominated Ms. Schiller because of her willingness to help them with homework. Students also appreciate that she goes above and beyond to resolve other challenges or issues that arise. Staff at West High School appreciate how welcoming Kate is when classes are held in the media center. Congratulations Ms. Schiller!