Our teachers work tirelessly for our students. To highlight those who exemplify the competencies outlined in our
Portrait of an Educator, teachers are nominated by their peers as “Rock Star Teachers.”
Here are the rock stars making a difference in the classroom and the community, and a quote from their nomination:
Alex Carrell, Waggoner Road Middle School
“Alex focuses on having his students work with the Portrait of a Graduate competencies and is always working to make learning engaging for his students. He is willing to share resources and ideas with others and works as part of the team.”
Jason Gibson, Junior and Senior High School band
“Mr. Gibson has worked hard to create a classroom/program environment which is welcoming and inclusive to all students and families. Students in the band program have multiple opportunities to hold leadership positions and to develop those skills throughout the years that they are involved in the band program.”
Judy Helm, Rose Hill Elementary School
“The lead [intervention specialist] has been out on maternity leave and Judy volunteered to attend the meetings and lead her IS staff. She has gone above and beyond … to help her fellow IS when she needed it most and then spread the knowledge gained in meetings to others within her building thus making a positive impact on others.”
Victoria Kalina, Waggoner Road Junior High School
“Mrs. Kalina, handles every situation with grace and empathy and makes all students feel valued and important. She exhibits qualities of a Portrait of an Educator: she exceeds in both areas of classroom culture and collaboration, and being a flexible, relationship-builder. She is constantly working to be the best version of herself for her colleagues and students.”
Alexis Poliseno, 9X Impact
“Ms. P. is an AMAZING teacher. She flawlessly integrated education and social and emotional learning on a daily basis. She understands that students are humans first, and that humans work best when their needs are met. She is able to meet the needs of her students, and engage them to become lifelong learners.”
Lori Uhl, Slate Ridge Elementary School
“Lori is in the hallway every morning greeting her students as they walk in the door. She shows up every day to make the most out their learning. Lori does everything that she can to make learning fun and engaging for her kids.”