The district is pleased to announce the November 2023 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	Ally Williams –Congratulations to Ally Williams, PELC Staff in the Spotlight for this month.  Ally’s co-workers describe Ally as amazing.  Ally is a paraprofessional at the PELC and can be found throughout the building supporting individual students, keeping students safe at meals and recess, and helping anyone else who needs it.  Ally builds amazing relationships with adults and children.  Ally consistently proves to be a huge part of the success of PELC students and staff.  Ally is committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure everyone at the PELC succeeds.  Our building is a better place because of her hard work.
	McKay	Katelen Leighty – McKay is so proud of Katelen Leighty.  She was an EA/Para at McKay, worked two jobs, finished school/MTE program, and is now a teacher.  Katelen transferred to McKay this year, and we couldn’t be more thrilled.  She is back home and doing an amazing job.  Katelen is prepared, kind, and an amazing teacher.  She brings joy to our building and is a great team player.  She always gives her best effort for her students and coworkers.  She creates meaningful and engaging lessons, which makes learning fun for students.  Connections are really important to Katelen, and she works hard to reach each and every student.  Her students know they are valued and cared for which results in tremendous growth for each one of them.  We are so lucky to have Katelen at McKay.
	Sherwood	Amy Kline – Amy is the secretary at Sherwood.  She has a great rapport with parents and employees.  She has a positive attitude which is greatly appreciated, and she is a joy to work with.  She is always ready and willing to help everyone.  She has such a huge load but always takes the time to make sure everyone has what they need.  She is our superstar secretary.
	Washington	Holly Krokosz – Holly is the Intervention Specialist at Washington Elementary.  The 2023 – 2024 school year is Holly’s third year in the Intervention Specialist role.  Holly has been a dedicated staff member at Washington for 15 plus years, and she has filled the role of classroom teacher for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade, with a majority of those years in 2nd grade.  Holly is recognized for streamlining our MTSS and doing all she can to support our students and staff.  Holly is a Wildcat that you will see supporting Washington Elementary from the carline to the classroom.  We appreciate you, Holly!
	Sunridge	Jill Clark – Jill’s patience with students who need extra help and positive suggestions for improving staff interactions with students are greatly appreciated.  She is doing an amazing job with the Reset Room.  Students respect her so much.  Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher and letting our students know they are always loved and feel safe at school.
	PHS	Abbey Prevot – Abbey is the Digital Arts teacher at PHS.  Abbey’s outstanding dedication and commitment to her students lead to opportunities beyond the classroom.  The success of her students in the Oregon Technology Students Association Regional Board Game Design Competition is a testament to her exceptional teaching and mentoring skills.  Abbey’s passion for digital arts and her drive to see her students excel not only in the classroom but in real world applications is inspiring.  It’s educators like Abbey who make a significant difference in the lives of students by encouraging them to explore their creativity and to believe in their abilities.  Abbey’s hard work and dedication are clearly reflected in the achievements of her students.  The experience and success they have gained under Abbey’s guidance will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for their future endeavors.  We are so lucky to have her as part of the Bucks Family!
	District Office/Maintenance	Kevin Marksmeier – for taking his assignment as the DO/PTTC custodian and district-wide courier head on.  He is an extremely hard worker who is quiet but has a great sense of humor and positive attitude.  This makes him an asset to the DO/PTTC team.
	Hawthorne/ Homestead	Kevin Marksmeier – Kevin has been a wonderful addition to Hawthorne/PTech.  He is articulate and keeps our school super clean.  You never see him take a break; he is just always finding something to clean.  We are thankful to have Kevin at our school.
	Nixyáawii	Christina Thomas – for working hard to meet students where they are and filling in when needed.  Mrs. Thomas has done a great job as a first-year teacher and is willing to try new ideas and learn new skills.