#Kudos to Shannon Wheeler, a Special Education Co-Teacher at North Middle School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Shannon:
"Shannon demonstrates exceptional dedication, working tirelessly to ensure that the needs of all students are met. She cares deeply for each student she serves and consistently advocates for their individual strengths and unique needs. Shannon’s warm southern charm and positive attitude create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone around her. In addition to her outstanding work with students, Shannon is an exemplary mentor who goes above and beyond to ensure her mentee is well-prepared and knowledgeable in all aspects of special education."
#Kudos to Sarah Van Wyhe, a Kindergarten Teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Sarah:
"Mrs. Van Wyhe is an extraordinary kindergarten teacher who truly embodies patience, kindness, and dedication each and every day. Her calm and nurturing presence creates a classroom environment that is not only safe, but genuinely welcoming and peaceful. The moment you step into her room, you can feel the warmth and care she pours into her students.
She consistently demonstrates remarkable patience and compassion with all of her kindergarten students, and it never goes unnoticed. She is a light within our school community — not only for her students, but for her colleagues as well. When you think of someone who always carries a smile, regardless of what challenges she may be facing, she is the perfect example. She is truly a ray of sunshine and kindness.
Her students are incredibly fortunate to have her as their teacher, and our entire school is better because of her presence."
#Kudos to Kendra Hansen, a Counselor at Liberty Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Kendra:
"I am nominating this person because she has been incredibly kind and helpful in welcoming me to the counselor group. She has gone out of her way to provide information and resources, and she has been very supportive during my transition to the Sioux City School District"
#Kudos to Rachel Olney, a Special Education Teacher at North High School.
Jenn Reilly shared the following about Rachel:
"Ms. Olney always goes above and beyond for her students, showing them each day how much she truly cares. She is the kind of teacher who takes the time to notice what her students need, whether it’s extra support, encouragement, or simply a kind word. Her classroom is a place where students feel safe, welcomed, and valued for who they are.
Ms. Olney has a loving and peaceful presence that brings comfort to her students and helps them feel at ease. She creates an environment filled with patience, understanding, and respect, allowing every student to grow both academically and personally. Her dedication is clear in the way she consistently puts her students first and works hard to make sure they feel supported and successful."
#Kudos to Savana Antle, a Resource Teacher Perry Creek Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Colton:
"Colt is an exceptional first-year special education teacher who has quickly become an asset to our preschool program. He excels at tailoring his instruction to meet the diverse needs of his students, ensuring every child has the tools to succeed. Beyond his technical skills, Colt’s greatest strength is the intentional, compassionate relationships he builds with his students. This foundation of trust has created a classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and motivated. As a result, his students are making remarkable developmental progress. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated professional on our team."
#Kudos to Colton Holtz, a Special Education Preschool Teacher at Clark Early Childhood Center (SCCSD Preschool Program).
A grateful colleague shared the following about Savana:
"Savana is a first year Resource Teacher. Savana has done a tremendous job of taking on all of her responsibilities in her role. Savana has a wonderful connection with her students and they have all made great strides in their academic and behavior progress. She has adjusted into her new position with ease and grace. She always has a positive attitude and is a team player. She has done an outstanding job of creating, managing, and adjusting paraprofessional schedules as needed. She has instantly become a great asset to the Perry Creek Resource Team and her efforts are greatly appreciated."
#Kudos to Dave Nash, a Special Education Co-Teacher at North High School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Dave:
"Dave consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student feels welcomed and valued, regardless of whether they are in his class. He makes a point to acknowledge students in the hallway, fostering a sense of belonging and connection throughout the school community. Dave actively encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, helping them become engaged and invested members of the school.
Students are naturally drawn to Dave’s approachable and supportive demeanor, which creates an environment where they feel safe, respected, and understood. In addition to supporting their academic growth, Dave intentionally teaches important life skills, such as confidently introducing themselves to adults and demonstrating respect in all interactions.
Dave celebrates student progress with genuine enthusiasm, sharing their successes with colleagues and ensuring students know how proud he is of their accomplishments. His commitment to recognizing and affirming student growth has a lasting and meaningful impact on those he serves."
#Kudos to Donny Short, a Fourth Grade Teacher at Bryant Elementary School.
Lizbeth Bustos-Salcido shared the following about Donny:
"Donny is an exceptional educator whose instructional effectiveness positively influences both student learning and professional collaboration. His high-quality instruction extends beyond his classroom, contributing meaningfully to his Professional Learning Community (PLC) and the broader Bryant community. He consistently applies research-based practices to support diverse student needs."
#Kudos to Tim Thompson, Mike Kramer, Blake St Peter, Samuel Shaver, Jodi Incognito, John Evans, and Daniel Bobier, Building Service Technicians at East High School.
Sara Gottlieb shared the following about the team:
"I just want to thank the entire night custodial staff, as well as Mike Kramer for all their hard work during Sing All About it. They worked very hard to make sure the school was clean, and to help get everything organized and set up. When the event was over, they came back to work to spend the evening setting up for eighth grade tours the next day. They also made sure the gym was set up for all the sports and activities for the eighth grade activity fair.
They are always willing to go the extra mile whenever something needs set up or torn down. I truly appreciate all their hard work and efforts. I know they get pulled in multiple directions all the time, but we are truly grateful to have such a great team at East High!"
#Kudos to Staci Page, a Special Education Co-Teacher at East Middle School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about the Staci:
"Staci does a wonderful job staying organized and keeping her team informed. She communicates openly and shares her thoughts and feelings in a way that builds strong teamwork and trust. Staci works hard to make sure students have clear, accurate goals and is always willing to ask questions to better support their needs.
She is passionate about helping students grow and close achievement gaps. Staci holds her students to high standards while showing care and encouragement every step of the way. Kudos!"
#Kudos to Haley Bracht, a third grade teacher at Bryant Elementary School.
A grateful parent shared the following about the Haley:
"Ms. Bracht is an wonderful kind teacher and my child loves having her as a teacher!"
#Kudos to Kyle Timmins, a Title teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
A grateful parent shared the following about Haley:
"Kyle always helps out and does it with a smile even when things get busy. He is kind, friendly, and great with students. Students families and staff know they can count on him and go to him when they need help. He works hard every day and makes our school a better place!"
#Kudos to Kyle Timmins, a Title teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Kyle:
"Kyle always helps out and does it with a smile even when things get busy. He is kind, friendly, and great with students. Students families and staff know they can count on him and go to him when they need help. He works hard every day and makes our school a better place!"
#Kudos to Pablo Quintanilla, an attendance specialist at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Pablo:
"Pablo is always willing to go above and beyond to assist students and staff. His dedication to Loess Hills and others is an outstanding example of how we all should treat others. I really enjoy working with Pablo!"
#Kudos to Jen Hughes, a kindergarten teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Jen:
"Jen helps students in the halls, classroom and in other classrooms of teachers with their students. She goes above and beyond with students that struggle with behaviors to help them get through their day by being firm but kind in a way the student understands. She gives everyone a chance to do the best they can and provides them with the provisions they need to do so. She communicates with families and staff to make each student succeed."
#Kudos to Alejandra Guzman, an Instructional Assistant at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
A grateful colleague shared the following about Alejandra:
"Alejandra does an amazing job working with her students. Her calm and caring demeanor towards the students show how much she cares for them. Alejandra implements behavior supports with ease to help keep her students engaged. When students are in need of additional support, Alejandra stays calm and collected to help guide students through big emotions. Alejandra is kind and professional to all staff. Kudos!"
#Kudos to Brad Fahrendholz, a maintenance mechanic for Operations and Maintenance.
A grateful colleague shared the following about the Brad:
"Brad is always outstanding, especially when subbing in our building. In March, we had the Community Action Agency come in to conduct a poverty simulation for professional development. Without Brad’s support, we would not have been able to get the simulation ready so quickly after lunch and student dismissal. He worked with the volunteers and was quick to assist in moving tables and helping with the set up. Thank you for all you do, Brad!"
#Kudos to Francisca Leon, a Special Education Teacher at Leeds Elementary School.
Stephanie Roskilly shared the following about Francisca:
"Ms. Leon is an incredible teacher who truly goes above and beyond every single day. Her positive attitude, genuine care for her students, and constant flexibility make such a difference. Ms. Leon creates a supportive and inspiring environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to succeed. Thank you, Ms. Leon, for all the extra effort you put in—it does not go unnoticed!"
#Kudos to our entire food service team!
Rich Luze shared these supportive words in his Kudos: "On behalf of the entire district, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the vital work you do every single day. Your energy and dedication ensure that every student has access to the nutritious, high-quality meals that power their learning and growth. I recognize that your impact begins in the early morning hours, involving complex behind-the-scenes efforts that truly keep our schools running. By balancing careful meal planning with a genuine, welcoming smile for every student, you help build a positive school culture in every one of our buildings.
Thank you for your steady commitment to the well-being of our students. You are a cornerstone of their success, and your hard work is appreciated more than words can convey. Keep making a difference, team!"
#Kudos to Mary Benson, a third grade teacher at Sunnyside Elementary!
A thankful colleague had this to say about Mary:
"Mary goes above and beyond when helping others. She gives great advice and willing to take the extra step to help. Mary is a team player and makes sure everyone around her succeeds. This benefits not only teachers but students as well. Students admire her teaching style and energy as well."
#Kudos to Haley Bracht, a third grade teacher at Bryant Elementary!
Selena Lundin shared the following about Haley:
"Haley is always going above and beyond. She makes sure her classroom is inclusive by ensuring all accommodations are being met, asking questions, and allowing the special education classroom students join in on the fun. Haley also made sure that the paraprofessionals felt appreciated on National Paraprofessional Appreciation Day by giving them handmade cards from her students and a little sweet treat. She sees the best in all her students and truly cares for each and every single one of them. Haley is a great co-worker and makes coming to work fun each day!"
#Kudos to Crystal McHugh, a counselor at Bryant Elementary!
Michelle Hahn had this to say about Crystal:
"Mrs. Crystal McHugh has done a phenomenal job of establishing her role as Counselor at Bryant this year. She has built strong relationships with students, supporting them through their various situations. Students seek out her perspective, her guidance, and her feedback. Even more, Crystal has often had to be very flexible with the situations that come to her, and she has done so efficiently, intentionally, and with understanding for the situation. Bryant is very thankful for Mrs. Crystal McHugh!"
#Kudos to Lisa Fickbohm, an attendance specialist at Bryant Elementary!
Michelle Hahn has this to say about Lisa:
"We appreciate all that Lisa Fickbohm does at Bryant Elementary as our Attendance Specialist. She is often finding new ideas to help get students consistently to school. Our Surprise Attendance Celebrations are a hit with students, the Surprise Bingo days are met with excitement as well, and she always entertains ideas that students themselves share. Besides bringing fun ways to celebrate students that are here on time, Lisa works closely with families to overcome hurdles for getting their Bryant Bears to school. Bryant is a great place to learn in part because of what Lisa does for students and families every day!"
#Kudos to Dr. Rachael Eggers-Ferry, an assistant principal at East High!
Alyssa Jaques had this to say:
"Dr. Eggers-Ferry exemplifies what it means to be both a leader and an instructional coach. Our Freshman House would not be where it is today without her guidance and support.
Dr. Eggers fosters an environment where teachers feel comfortable seeking support, knowing she is always available to listen, problem-solve, and offer thoughtful advice. Her intentional focus on school climate and culture, combined with clear communication, accountability, and a commitment to using data to guide our work, has been instrumental in building a cohesive and effective team."
#Kudos to Elexis Claussen, an attendance instructional assistant at North High!
A thankful colleague had this to say about Elexis:
"Elexis has gone above and beyond assisting with the attendance policy at North High. She is a team player and has stepped up to the plate after we lost one of our team members. She is a true asset and I greatly appreciate all her hard work!"