2026 Finalist Profiles

Jean Anderson (3rd Grade, Tonawanda Elementary)

Jean Anderson embodies professional excellence, blending high standards with a heartfelt commitment to the success of every student. As a literacy leader and dedicated mentor to 14 student teachers over her career, Jean channels her energy into the development of her students and the teaching professionals around her. Families deeply value her classroom environment, where academic growth is balanced perfectly with kindness and care.

Jennifer Hoffe (1st Grade, Brookfield Elementary)

Jennifer Hoffe builds a caring and nurturing community in her first grade classroom so that her students can achieve amazing results. Jen’s parents appreciate her ability to personalize her students’ learning journey and her students value the relationships she develops, even after they have moved beyond first grade. The hallmark of Jen’s classroom, however, is the remarkable academic transformation witnessed in her students each year, a tribute to her rare gift for teaching phonics and reading with a precision like no other.

Amy Jacobson (Art, Dixon Elementary)

Amy Jacobson brings the highest quality of art education to her students, making her classroom a magical place. This year, she is exceptionally outstanding for leading the Empty Bowls project to benefit the Milwaukee Rescue Mission, and working with an artist in residence to create a lasting impact. Known for producing out-of-this-world projects, Amy goes above and beyond to showcase students' hard work through incredible installations at Gallery Night. She creates a welcoming, safe space where every child feels successful and proud.

Lindsay Strzyzewski (Special Education, Burleigh Elementary)

Lindsay Strzyzewski demonstrates her genuine love and care for students in everything she does. She is deeply passionate about holding her students to high expectations while providing the support they need, empowering them to achieve meaningful success. Her calm, positive presence and a true team-first mindset make her a very valuable member of her special education and 5th grade teams. With her unwavering support for students and staff, she is an essential part of Burleigh who is deeply appreciated by all!

Ali Yenter (Special Education, Swanson Elementary)

Ali Yenter is the Special Education Department Chair and an amazing leader who has led a department transformation centered on proactive student support. Ali is an incredible mentor to her peers, creative problem-solver, and models strong collaboration. Her instructional practice is grounded in intentionality and a commitment to growth, resulting in life-changing outcomes for her students. Ali’s passion for education continues to have a profound effect on Swanson’s school community.

Lauren Adams (Math, Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Lauren Adams is the true embodiment of joy in education, cultivating a vibrant atmosphere where students feel an immediate sense of belonging. This year, her leadership shone as she became a certified CPI Trainer, equipping colleagues with practical tools to manage complex behaviors with dignity. Within her welcoming math classroom, she masterfully balances warmth with academic rigor through personalized small-group instruction and fun games. Lauren ensures every learner leaves with the confidence to conquer any future challenge.

Shari Gajria (Science, Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Shari Gajria is an outstanding teacher who brings patience, insight, and intentional care to her classroom. This year, her extra effort to welcome and support all students in her classroom is simply exceptional. Shari goes the extra mile to provide alternative, fun ways to teach material, helping all students feel understood and empowered to grow. She is a consummate professional and a strong collaborator who makes her school a better place.

Becky Klug (Art, Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Becky Klug is a truly one-of-a-kind art teacher who continually works to make her instruction more inclusive and engaging for all learners. This year, her commitment to excellence shone as she took ownership of community art, the yearbook club, and the Culture and Climate Committee! She goes out of her way to make the school beautiful while serving as a trusted mentor to new staff. Becky creates a classroom where every student finds success and feels valued.

Nathan Knuth (Art, Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Nathan Knuth is an amazing art teacher who mixes education and fun, teaching students to express themselves and cherish their creativity. This year, he continued making his classroom an accessible, safe, and encouraging space for all learners, even opening his doors to young artists during lunch. Nathan recently led his team in organizing a fine arts night and consistently inspires artwork beyond grade-level expectations. He is a trusted adult who genuinely cares about every student and their passions.

Julie Hancock (English, Brookfield Central)

Brookfield Central has been lucky to have Julie Hancock’s presence in the building over the last three school years. With an approach that displays a high degree of confidence and impeccable organization, Julie’s students are always engaged in her English classes. She is a pillar of her department and a cherished colleague, creating a classroom atmosphere that is productive and welcoming. By fostering such a supportive environment, students are genuinely eager to step into her classroom every day.

Pete Mejac (Spanish, Brookfield Central High School)

Pete Mejac is a long-time Spanish teacher who is intentional with all he does in the classroom. Every lesson is meticulously planned and his interactive style makes learning feel effortless and fun for students. Pete is solution-oriented and creates an environment where students feel both focused and inspired. Students are naturally drawn to his engaging lessons, often mastering concepts before they even realize how much they’ve learned.

Mario Morelli (Science, Brookfield East High School)

Mario Morelli has transformed one of the most rigorous challenges in the curriculum into the school's most popular AP course. By fostering a relationship-driven classroom, he ensures that every student in AP Biology—regardless of their starting point—develops the confidence to master complex material. Mario understands that teamwork is the engine of student learning; under his guidance, the classroom becomes a collaborative environment where students feel safe to take academic risks. 

Pat Perez (English, LAUNCH)

Pat Perez is an exceptional teacher and a core member of the LAUNCH program who defines kindness and patience. This year, he continues to simultaneously teach classical literature while standing at the forefront of integrating AI and innovation into English instruction. Pat creates an environment where friendly banter and high expectations coexist, using guiding questions that push students to grow. As a collaborative voice of reason, he remains a safe place to land for both students and colleagues.

Laura Suprenand (Science, Brookfield East High School)

Laura is the "heartbeat" of the Science Department, who believes wholeheartedly in creating opportunities for students. This year, Laura pioneered the Dual Enrollment Anatomy & Physiology pilot course with UWM, creating a pathway for students to earn college credit. She is the club advisor for Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and a strong advocate for connecting students to health careers. Finally, Laura is in her first year as Department Chair, leveraging her infectious energy and steady leadership to elevate everyone around her. 

Kennedi Coffman (5K, Swanson Elementary)

Kennedi Coffman is a 5K teacher who has quickly become an essential leader and a key part of the school team. She brings tons of energy to her classroom, making sure her students are excited to learn and truly enjoy coming to school every day. Outside of her lessons, she is a talented communicator who helped start the popular Board Game Club to help kids across all grades connect. Kennedi’s dedication makes her a top-tier educator and a valuable teammate.

Tara DeValk-Bigler (Special Education, Dixon Elementary)

Tara DeValk-Bigler is an exceptional special educator who brings "love and light" to Dixon students. Tara possesses a remarkable ability to see past a diagnosis, focusing on each learner's unique strengths while helping them thrive. She is often found personally greeting families at car drop-off to alleviate student anxiety, and her engaging lessons make the school day something students truly look forward to and consequently make Dixon a great place to learn.

Haley Laliberte (Special Education, Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Haley Laliberte has been an excellent addition to the special education team, bringing compassion, flexibility, and a steadfast belief in every student's potential. As a new educator stepping into a demanding role this year, she was relentless in supporting students with complex needs. She successfully builds bridges with families through her student-centered practices which lead to real, measurable growth and impact beyond her years.

Hannah Peksa (4th Grade, Burleigh Elementary)

Hannah Peksa is a valued member of the Fourth Grade team at Burleigh, returning to Elmbrook as an alum of Brookfield Central. Her positive attitude and willingness to learn have been contagious to the entire team this year. Hannah’s students have shown clear growth in both reading and math, due to her strong instructional practices, thoughtful planning, and commitment to meeting the needs of each of her students. She is described by her principal as an all-around rockstar who was born to be a teacher!

Stacy Steil-Anderson (Science, Brookfield East High School)

In just her second year, Stacy Steil-Anderson has emerged as a "kid magnet" who has fundamentally shifted the academic landscape of BEHS. Leveraging her creativity and passion, Stacy has transformed freshmen Biology from the most failed course in the school to no longer in the top ten. Additionally, Stacy filled a staffing need at BEHS by earning her Family and Consumer Ed license and completely modernizing its Fashion Analysis course. Her efforts and impact are truly exceptional.

Mara Tetzlaff (5th Grade, Tonawanda Elementary School)

As a LAUNCH Future Teacher alumna, Mara has approached her first year with a remarkable level of maturity and a proactive "growth mindset" that has quickly earned the respect of her 5th-grade team. Mara seeks feedback constantly and from everyone, including her students, as she models a growth mindset to those around her. Mara’s commitment to her students extends beyond the school day, as she attends their co-curricular events to build the deep, supportive relationships that inspire their best work.

Aibek Sultan (Tonawanda Elementary, Pilgrim Park, Brookfield East)

Day after day, Mr. Aibek arrives at his stops on time with a calm and caring presence that sets the tone for student riders. He prioritizes safety, ensuring students can cross in front of the bus and arrive to and from the school safely. His kindness, friendliness, and reliability have made a lasting impact on the families he serves. Students who ride Mr. Aibek’s bus proudly say he is the best bus driver!

Ally Tucker (Swanson Elementary, Wisconsin Hills, Brookfield Central)

Ally is recognized by parents for building a positive, welcoming community on her bus. While she prioritizes safety and maintaining order, she values relationships with students the most. Ally is a presence for her students and greets their excitement with enthusiasm and joy. Families declare that she is exactly the person you want carrying your most precious cargo. 

Bill Senn (Brookfield Elementary, Wisconsin Hills, Brookfield Central)

Families and students alike value Bill’s commitment to safety and his approachable personality. By prioritizing reliability, he has spent years cultivating deep-rooted relationships that serve as the foundation of his work. Bill is truly a master of his craft, understanding that mutual respect is the key to creating an ideal environment on every bus route. 

Jazmine Wright (Burleigh Elementary, Pilgrim Park, Brookfield East)

Jazmine is described as the best bus driver!  She is always on time and provides a safe ride for one and all. She greets everyone by name and with a welcoming smile, while displaying the perfect balance of professionalism and warmth. Parents have high trust in Jazmine, recognizing the positive impact she has on their children. Similarly, other GoRiteway drivers also rely on Jazmine for route support and for words of wisdom when responding to student and family needs.

Kayla Filbrandt (District/Dixon Elementary)

Kayla ensured that GoRiteway’s transition to a new routing platform last summer went smoothly, verifying every route, testing the new parent app, and communicating changes with drivers. In her support position, Kayla works regularly with families and school administrators to answer questions and resolve route concerns with a commitment to service and satisfaction. However, Kayla does not sit at her desk all day, driving one or two routes daily, with a willingness to fill in wherever needed. 

Ben Farley (Guidance, Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Ben Farley is an incredible counselor who treats every student like family, tirelessly supporting their growth both inside and outside the classroom. By creating meaningful leadership opportunities and building a culture of trust, he has become a role model whose integrity and genuine care are admired by students and families alike. His profound impact stretches far beyond the school walls, and our entire community is better every day because of the heart and dedication he brings to his work.

Caroline Fink (Guidance, Brookfield Central High School)

Though in her first year at BCHS, Caroline Fink possesses a poise and expertise far beyond her years. Caroline has a strong sense of intuition as a counselor and has an amazing ability to anticipate the needs of her students. She ensures every student feels like the most valued person in the room. Whether navigating complex scheduling challenges or providing support to her students, Caroline’s creative problem-solving and empathy have made an immediate and immense impact at Brookfield Central.

Matt Ische (Guidance, Brookfield East High School)

Matt Ische is a cornerstone of the Student Services team, defined by his "no-nonsense" brilliance and a relentless drive for efficiency. As a pivotal leader of the Early Warning System team, Matt performs high-level data analysis and prioritizes students in need of immediate support. His proactive approach ensures that interventions reach the right students at the right time. When meeting with students and families, Matt relies on his engaging personality and empathy to navigate any task or challenge at hand. 

Maycie Wiernik (Nurse, District)

As one of two District nurses, Maycie has gone above and beyond to staff the elementary health rooms this year in order to ensure no fall, illness or scrape goes untreated.  After just two years in the District, Maycie is well regarded by our school leaders and office staff members for being knowledgeable, supportive, and caring, with a passion for serving students and their families. Maycie is a collaborator, always eager to learn and, when needed, share her expert perspective.

Laura Baritt (Food & Nutrition Assistant Director, District Office)

Laura has provided great leadership this year in our Food & Nutrition Department. Laura led the District’s transition to a new menu app, training staff on its use and providing families with more nutritional information about their child’s lunches. Additionally, Laura expanded the hydroponic farm at Fairview South, creating partnerships with a variety of student groups across the District to manage the farm and engage in the production and distribution of the produce. Laura’s work is simply second to none! 

Lisa Giammo (Office Manager, Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Lisa Giammo is the ultimate "go-to" person who keeps PPMS running like clockwork, handling every request and challenge with incredible efficiency and a genuine smile. From completely transforming our office organization to making every staff and student feel welcome, her leadership has created a culture where everyone feels supported. It is honestly hard to imagine the building without her, as she is a true treasure who consistently goes above and beyond to help students and teachers succeed.

Jennifer Johnson (Benefits & Wellness Specialist, District Office)

Jennifer’s leadership in insurance and benefits knows no bounds. She is a wealth of knowledge who is fully committed to helping Elmbrook Staff navigate their health care decisions. This year, Jennifer guided the expansion and relocation of the Wellness Center, communicated benefit changes, promoted our new care navigation partner, and helped onboard our new insurance consultant. While recognized for her strong communication skills, Jennifer’s superpower is the patience and kindness she demonstrates to each employee through her work each day. 

Leslie Knipfer (Administrative Assistant, Dixon Elementary)

Leslie Knipfer is the heartbeat of Dixon and the welcoming first face visitors see. This year, she made a completely seamless transition to running the front desk, beautifully filling the shoes of a retiring 30+ year veteran. She manages the office with great efficiency and consistently goes above and beyond to assist anyone in need. Leslie ensures that though you may enter as a stranger, you leave as a friend, simply making the school a better place.

Evalyn Martin (Office Manager, Brookfield Central High School)

Evalyn Martin is at the center of all things Brookfield Central as the Office Manager of BC since 2022. She anticipates challenges before they arise, ensuring staff and families always feel supported. Evalyn is always delightful in her interactions with staff and students and known to drop everything to help someone in a time of need. She does so much for planning graduation to make sure it is a special day, reflecting her dedication to Brookfield Central in all tasks large and small. 

Kayla Simpson (Student Services Administrative Assistant, Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Kayla Simpson is the core of student services, creating a joyful culture where every student feels welcome and cared for. This year, she went above and beyond by leading Student Senate, Yearbook, and the Disney Club, while seamlessly handling school assemblies. She serves as a trusted first point of connection, stepping in with compassion and problem-solving to help kids access resources. Kayla leads with heart and strengthens the school community daily by understanding each individual student's story.

Lindy DesJarlais (Associate Principal, Swanson Elementary)

Lindy DesJarlais is a natural communicator and kid connector who brings positive joy and energy to our school each day. Known for her ability to make people smile and laugh, Lindy is a culture creator who makes each person feel at home at Swanson. Lindsay has a keen eye for high impact instruction and provides feedback to staff that is supportive and focused on student needs. She is a visionary leader who balances operational and instructional excellence with a deep personal commitment to providing a great place to learn and a great place to work.

Elizabeth Mallegni (Talent Development Coordinator, District Office)

In her role, Liz Mallegni is a tremendous advocate for every child in the district. Never one to miss an opportunity for engagement, Liz provided middle school students the chance to work with the hydroponic farms, connecting their learning to the Science curriculum and foods offered in the cafeteria. In addition to supporting over 800 students and their unique needs, Liz works closely with the District parent organization to support the needs of their families in a thoughtful, collaborative way. 

Carolyn Sosalla (Associate Principal, Brookfield Elementary)

Carolyn’s approach to leadership reflects a relentless dedication to serving students, staff and families across the school. She possesses the rare ability to think strategically while caring for the individual interests of those with whom she is engaged. This year, Carolyn has supported Brookfield Elementary’s green efforts to compost and recycle, and has launched a new Best Buddies program in response to student engagement data. She constantly reflects on her leadership and asks for feedback so that she can be better for kids. Amazingly, Carolyn’s impact is both profound and personal. 

Sabrina Hintz (Teaching & Learning Specialist - Brookfield Central High School)

Sabrina has been described as the unofficial glue that holds Brookfield Central together. As an instructional coach, Sabrina often leads with empathy (and a smile), allowing her to turn challenges into opportunities for collective success. Her impact extends to students, where her work with AVID promotes essential skills from which all students can benefit. This year, she dedicated additional time in support of the World History course, helping to make the content meaningful and impactful for students. Staff and families are grateful for Sabrina’s energy and commitment to positively impacting the entire BC community.

Hanna Heinrich (Kitchen Manager, Brookfield East High School)

Hanna leads by example, engaging every role in the kitchen to ensure her team succeeds. In her three years as Lead, she has transformed the team into a high-functioning environment where staffing consistency and hard work are the gold standards. Her "weekly rounding" and coaching ability earn high praise from staff, and her student-facing leadership builds trust and results in regular feedback and suggestions from BEHS students. Hanna isn’t just managing a kitchen; she is demonstrating the qualities of a future director.

Mike Litschauer (Head Custodian, Brookfield Central High School)

Mike Litschauer has become an incredible asset to Brookfield Central over the last year and a half as the Lead Custodian. He leads by example, ensuring the building is maintained to the highest standard. Mike is extremely responsive and knowledgeable, tackling every challenge that comes his way. Mike consistently goes the extra mile. His phenomenal leadership and tireless work ethic ensure Brookfield Central remains a safe, highly maintained, and welcoming environment for everyone.

Jessie McBride (Kitchen Lead, Tonawanda Elementary)

Jessie McBride does far more than just managing daily meal service. Even on the busiest or most challenging days, Jessie keeps operations running smoothly, leading with calm and optimism. Their dedication this year goes above and beyond just running the kitchen; helping to modify menus in support of students with allergies, and personally purchasing books for the school’s book vending machine. Their generosity and dedication make a lasting impact on the Tonawanda Community. 

Marsha Pulizzano (Paraprofessional, Brookfield Elementary)

Marsha works as a lunchroom supervisor and is a vital cog in a very smooth cafeteria operation. This year, Marsha graciously expanded her hours and her role to meet a critical need. Through her daily work, Marsha anticipates needs and works diligently to create a positive, structured environment. She naturally connects with students and has turned the cafeteria into a place of genuine community and kindness. 

Fatima Amari-Tlemsani (Muslim Student Association, Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Fatima is a phenomenal mentor who was instrumental in launching the Muslim Student Association, providing the advocacy and organization needed to get the club off the ground. She creates a truly student-centered environment by tailoring every meeting to the students interests, making them feel genuinely supported. Whether she’s teaching, coaching or leading the MSA, her presence at Pilgrim Park gives students a sense of comfort and a reliable role model to look up to.

Alyssa Boltik (Softball, Brookfield East High School)

Alyssa is a BEHS alumna who breathed life back into a softball program on "life support." In her first year, she performed a Herculean turnaround, rebuilding a challenged program through a foundation of respect, love, and tireless energy. Alyssa coaches the way every parent hopes their daughter will be coached—prioritizing the person behind the athlete. The results were immediate: participation numbers surged, the team became highly competitive, and the players found joy in the game of softball. 

Mike Greuel, Monica Lentz (Student Council, Brookfield East High School)

Mike and Monica are the architects of the vibrant culture at Brookfield East, leading a Student Council that serves as a platform for developing future leaders. Rather than limiting involvement, they champion a "wide-tent" philosophy, encouraging massive student participation especially during Homecoming Week, where 90% of all students attend the Homecoming dance. Under their leadership, Mike and Monica foster a spirit of service and school pride that resonates through the halls every day. 

April Heyden (Cross Country, Track, Ski Club, Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

April Heyden makes a tremendous impact on her school community through her outstanding coaching in cross country, track, and the ski club. This year, she took on the massive logistical task of leading the ski team, navigating equipment, buses, and ski hill coordination with confidence. Inside the building, April is a vital go-to resource who offers leadership and encouragement to staff. Her dedication and reliability keep operations running smoothly while fostering student belonging.

Daniel Makal (Girls and Boys Soccer, Brookfield Central High School)

Daniel Makal has been a teacher in Brookfield Central’s Social Studies department since 2017 and longtime coach of both girls and boys soccer. His leadership this past year was nothing short of special, guiding the girls’ soccer team to a State Championship and leading the boys’ team to a State appearance. Dan is defined by his year-round dedication to player development. He is a top-notch mentor who consistently produces not only elite soccer players, but exceptional human beings.

Kristin Shaw (Cheer Club, Dixon Elementary)

Kristin Shaw is an amazing coach who serves as an absolute light, constantly radiating positivity. This year, she has dedicated significant time to the cheer program she started, making it incredibly fun and engaging for all students. Beyond cheerleading, she intentionally focuses on team building and community outreach projects at every practice. Kristin shares her infectious enthusiasm and passion by leading the team to perform at school, Unified Sports, and various community events.

Sue Meyer (Brookfield East High School)

Sue defines the word "invaluable." As a retiree who has returned to East to fill a critical medical leave, she stepped back into the classroom with the same enthusiasm and dedication that defined her full-time career. Sue’s impact is most felt by students with the most complex needs, who benefit from her deep experience, wisdom and institutional knowledge.

Janine Netzel (Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Janine Netzel is an invaluable part of the WHMS family, functioning as a trusted, "built-in building sub." As a former teacher, she seamlessly walks into any classroom and fits in perfectly, providing huge relief to staff who know their students are in great hands. This year, her flexibility has been especially critical, as she is always there to help the team, even for last-minute morning calls. Janine builds great relationships with students and is truly irreplaceable.

Lindsay Vinciguerra (Burleigh Elementary)

Lindsay Vinciguerra seamlessly joined the learning support team during a staff leave and made an immediate impact with students by building a warm, trusting rapport. Using her expertise as a licensed reading interventionist, she ensured continuity of services for students in supporting their growth. Lindsay is positive, approachable, and is an absolutely wonderful substitute at Burleigh Elementary!

Arin Yttre (Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Arin is the kind of substitute teacher every school hopes for, blending a high level of professionalism with a genuine knack for connecting with students. By earning the trust and respect of every classroom she steps into, she transforms a typical day into a truly engaging and productive learning experience. Her reliability and dedication have made her an indispensable part of our team, and we are so grateful for the positive impact she has on our students.

Angie Black (Special Education Assistant, Dixon Elementary)

Angie Black is a sincere, empathetic educator who pours love and energy into  every student she meets. This year, she continues going above and beyond for students with high support needs, providing exactly what they need—whether it’s space, a hug, or playful engagement. She excels at discovering students' strengths, using them as a bridge to help them thrive. Angie is an invaluable colleague whose fun, nurturing nature ensures every child feels safe in her care.

Cindy Buchan (Library Media Assistant, Brookfield Elementary)

The library is often the favorite place for students to visit thanks to the efforts of Cindy Buchan. Cindy personalizes their experience and is always able to find just the perfect book for their reading pleasure. Cindy continues to promote both the print and digital book collection, with 60% of students checking out an ebook in just one month! Her willingness to coach the Battle of the Books team reflects her commitment to students and reading, in and out of the classroom.

Kelly Herrick (Special Education Assistant, Swanson Elementary)

Kelly Herrick is a teaching assistant who is amazing at her job, consistently showing up for students and staff with a positive attitude and a commitment to doing whatever it takes. She handles every curveball with dignity and grace, remaining calm and encouraging even in tough situations that require extra patience. Her natural ability to connect with students helps them feel safe, supported, and happy to be at school. She is proactive and always willing to step in wherever she is needed. Her kindness and dedication leave a lasting impact on the team.

Deb Krueger (Special Education Assistant, Tonawanda Elementary)

Deb Krueger is the epitome of a dedicated Special Education Assistant. She plays a critical role in student success by building relationships that are rooted in trust and compassion. This year she supported students who faced significant challenges and helped transform these challenges into milestones. Deb never fails to celebrate every success, no matter how small. Deb has also played an integral role in the development of the Special Education team at Tonawanda by leading department meetings and supporting new teachers. 

Kanchana Senthilmurugan (Special Education Assistant, Brookfield Elementary)

Kanchana (Kanchi) makes it her mission to help her students successfully participate across all academic areas. She is a strong communicator with her colleagues and students, recognizing that progress is made because of a team’s effort. Kanchi is a creative and relentless problem solver, highlighting her commitment to every student’s success.

Nathan Schmidt (Special Education Assistant, Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Nathan Schmidt is an exceptional special education assistant deeply dedicated to supporting all students. This year, his strong ability to recognize and respond to individual needs provides the patience and thoughtful support necessary for students to succeed academically and personally. Known as the "best helper," his friendly, approachable nature and great school spirit create a safe, welcoming environment. He keeps the class in control while always making every student feel like they truly matter.

Monica Warren (Special Education Assistant, Burleigh Elementary)

Monica Warren is a special education assistant who consistently goes above and beyond in her role on a daily basis. She shows incredible patience, genuine kindness, and true love for her work every day. She puts students first and has a unique ability to make students smile all the time. She establishes great connections with students who may have a hard time connecting with other adults. Her positive attitude and dedication create a safe, supportive environment where children feel cared for and encouraged to do their best!

Kelli Kauzlarich (Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Kelli is the driving force behind so much of what makes the WHMS community thrive, serving as a true “volunteer extraordinaire” on the PTO board. Whether she’s writing the newsletter, coordinating graduation, or stepping in as the go-to problem solver, she brings a sharp mind and creative approach that makes everything run smoothly. This year, her leadership was instrumental in revamping the school fundraiser, helping it raise over $25,000 for students and staff. With a natural ability to connect with people and inspire those around her, Kelli’s dedication, energy, and generosity leave a lasting impact on the entire school community.

Kelly Lehnerer (Wisconsin Hills Middle School)

Kelly Lehnerer is the visionary lead behind the wildly successful WHMS Players, who put on an incredible production of Frozen Jr. this year. She dedicated endless hours and weeks of behind-the-scenes planning to coordinate a massive volunteer crew and manage countless details. The show's fabulous final result was a direct reflection of her tireless effort and leadership. Kelly’s commitment ensures that theatrical productions continue to improve and provide unforgettable experiences for students.

Nicole McBane (Pilgrim Park Middle School)

Nicole McBane has been a constant, reliable presence on the PTO over the last 3 years, bringing an incredible amount of energy to every fundraiser and event. Whether she’s jumping in to help at the last minute or supporting a long-term project, her hands-on approach makes a huge difference for both the students and the staff. We are so lucky to have her dedication and positive spirit here at Pilgrim Park. 

Deb Nustad (District)

Deborah has served the District in a variety of ways over the years, but perhaps none more impactful than through the coordination of the Intergenerational Reading program. Piloted 3 years ago at Swanson, this program now connects nearly 80 volunteers with students at all five elementary schools building relationships and champions for students’ literacy skills. Deb and her team of volunteers recruit, train and schedule the volunteers, a testament to her organizational brilliance and commitment to serving our school community. 

Carina Tran (Tonawanda Elementary)

Carina Tran’s dedication to volunteering has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the Tonawanda community. She helps create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and is always first to step in wherever support is needed. Her generosity goes far beyond just giving her time, she also contributes additional resources to support staff and make school events successful. She even brings her own food truck to events to serve and connect with families. Carina is a great example of what true community spirit looks like.