The district is pleased to announce the April 2024 Staff in the Spotlight recipients. Every month, each of our schools honors a staff member at their building for going above and beyond their regular duties or for doing something special. Join us in celebrating these outstanding employees!

	PELC	Kalix Styvar – Congratulations to Kalix Styvar.  Kalix has the unique ability to remain calm and collected even when being tasked to help regulate the most challenging students. Kalix builds instant connections with students and is able to jump into any situation, remain calm, and work as a team with both students and staff to solve problems. Kalix is willing to step up when there is a need and if there is a colleague who asks for help. When asked how to learn a new program and adjust to an ever-changing schedule, Kalix adapted quickly and did the work. To top it off, Kalix does it all with a positive attitude! We appreciate Kalix!
	McKay	Randy Jenness – for always planning fun activities for all kids. He makes sure students have fun but are also safe. Mr. Jenness is a team player – he works well with staff, always pitches in and does whatever needs to be done, and helps kids to be their best. We are so lucky to work with Mr. Jenness and have him as part of our Mustang team.
	Sherwood	Kirk Case – He is awesome with the kids. He is always thinking of new games and activities. He is very good at making connections with everyone – students and staff. Kirk is always willing to jump in when a student is struggling and go the extra mile. Kirk has great relationships with students, and the kids love going to P.E.  We are so lucky to have him at Sherwood.
	Washington	Erica Schmidt – Erica has been nominated multiple times this year, and she is a valued member of our school community. Erica is noted for giving 110% every day, all day. She often gives up her lunch to assist students. She does this through patience, care, love, and generosity. We truly appreciate her contribution to our school community. Keep up the great work, Erica!
	Sunridge	Nick Leonard – Nick makes his students feel so confident in math. His students frequently say that math is a strength for them, and they look forward to going to his class because of the relationships he builds with students. Nick demonstrates kindness, consideration, and knowledge in everything he does. He is also a positive, reliable presence on our staff. Congratulations Nick!
	PHS	TJ Haguewood – We are thrilled to celebrate TJ Haguewood, an exceptional math teacher at PHS who has gone above and beyond in his role. Mr. Haguewood has not only inspired countless students with his passion for mathematics but has also played a pivotal role in revitalizing our GEARS program. His dedication and expertise have greatly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our school’s Advisory program, making a profound impact on our educational environment. Please join us in applauding Mr. Haguewood for his outstanding contributions and commitment to excellence. Thank you, TJ, for making a difference!
	Hawthorne/ Homestead	Annette Bittorf– Annette means so much to the staff and students of Hawthorne. She helps wherever she can, from her PBL classes to our students doing credit retrieval or the GED. Her knowledge of math and teaching at each level is very important. Our students excel under her tutelage. We appreciate her and all she brings to our program at Hawthorne.
	District Office	Tim Gilbert – Tim for his excellent communication skills and all the work he does to support staff in buildings and at the district office. Also, for all his work on the Celebration Committee throughout the year to honor our retirees. We appreciate that he is a team player and is always willing to go above and beyond.
	Nixyáawii Community School	Aaron Noisey – for always being available on optional Friday school days. Aaron is always willing to come in on Fridays to work with kids, help them improve their grades, and get caught up