In recent years, education has faced many challenges, and we know our staff continually goes above and beyond to ensure our schools are safe and engaging environments for students to learn and grow. Columbia Union School District started this school year to formally celebrate staff members who are making a difference by lending a helping hand to students, families, and one another. Whether it is through a small gesture or a big effort, these actions have a ripple effect that make Columbia the special place that it is.
Staff were encouraged to recognize their colleagues. Below is not only our first addition to “Columbia’s Exceptional Squad” (CES and, yes, we do think we are clever.) but others who were nominated!
September Winner
Nathan Mohr, Head IT Specialist
“Whenever there is an IT issue, Nathan is there to lend a hand, find a fix, or work with the computer to get the problem resolved. Seeing what other schools have and what they are working with, I feel lucky to have Nathan at our school. Recently, he has taken on new jobs to continue to help and promote this school to its fullest potential. Columbia should be proud and honored to have Nathan here.”
“Nathan Mohr has taken on additional duties over that last almost year and even with his increased workload he is pleasant, helpful, and calm in all of my interactions even when faced with a tough situation such as managing all of the changes that occurred when we split Aeries into two schools. I truly appreciate how easy Nathan is to work with and how quickly he responds to requests.”
“He is just wonderful at getting our classroom requests done. I know he is really busy, and does his best. I love his sense of humor. Way to go Nathan!”
Nominees
Aleta Ketchum, Head Cook
“I witness Aleta daily; her work ethic is unmatched and she goes above and beyond to make the staff and the students feel special. I say she does too much, but it's who she is! She has a giving heart and she never quits.”
Mary Bickley, Fifth Grade Teacher
“Mary is an amazing teacher. She goes above and beyond for her students and drastically changed my daughter’s outlook on school and learning.”
“Bickley regularly meets with staff before school, after school, or during lunch to help with ideas about classroom management, planning, and most recently setting up gradebooks.”
Rebekah Wood, Principal
“She is just always there for everyone and I just love seeing her interacting with children and staff. And she always makes herself available when needed. Thank you Rebekah!”
Jenna Lasee, Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
“She goes above and beyond her duties as a TK teacher! She listens to each child to ensure they feel validated. She easily recognizes their individual needs and is overall a good human! We are lucky to have her!”
Mia Hansen, Fifth Grade Teacher
“Mia is so generous with her time! Daily she gives herself to staff members and students. She's open and honest, and always quick with a laugh. She is so helpful to new staff, working to provide support, lift morale, and see that others succeeded. She was tireless in the curriculum adoption search, and she's working to implement a new curriculum and grow her own pedagogy.”
Alisha Curnow, Instructional Technician
“Alisha is dependable and hardworking. I can always count on her and appreciate all that she does to help support the classroom, myself, and the kids.”
Becca Evanson, Instructional Technician
“Oh my goodness! She is amazing! She is so good/effective with the kids! She is firm, but kind, and the kids respond well to her. She does an amazing job with the toughest of kiddos!”
Becky Cox, Middle School Math Teacher
“Becky has been through a lot this year...Yet through all of this she shows up everyday at school to teach our kids, even if she doesn't have a classroom to use. Nothing seems to faze her. Becky, you are truly an amazing person.”
Jessica Dickson, Instructional Technician
“Jess goes above and beyond for students. She is caring, patient, and so much more. I am thankful to have her in my class!!! Students love her!”
(in order)
