The district is pleased to announce the October 2021 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	Maria Davis – We are so lucky to have Maria at the PELC. She gives so generously of her time and skills. Maria continuously offers to help and support each one of us. She makes wonderful connections with students, families, and staff.
	McKay	Katelen Leighty – for being amazing in so many ways. Katelen has a special way about her that immediately shows that kids come first with her. She sets boundaries for them, but at the same time speaks to them in a caring way. She shows so much leadership through her actions and words. She adjusts to changes in scheduling and does it with grace. We are lucky to have her here as part of our Mustang family.
	Sherwood	Jolene Hudson – Jolene is using her new job as the intervention specialist to make small group interventions run more efficiently and effectively with her knowledge and skills. Jolene supported staff by deepening their knowledge of implementing interventions. The assistants are benefiting from her extra support and brain smart start meetings. You Rock, Jolene!
	Washington	Rose Smith – Rose works hard to ensure that the students always have the best. She works well with the team and is always going out of her way to help the teachers and students.
	Sunridge	Chris Demianew – for working so hard with the leadership program. And, a big shout out for playing with the pep band at the football game. Mr. Demianew has done such an amazing job with our leadership kids. Our building looks so festive, and the students are taking pride in the activities they are planning. It’s fun to have fun again!
	PHS	Brianna Voorhies – Brianna is the attendance secretary at PHS. Brianna has been instrumental in collecting return to school letters from the Umatilla County Health Department to ensure a safe return to school for students. She works with students and parents of students who have unexcused or chronically absent issues. She does this with a smile on her face and a great attitude.
	Nixya’awii	Jewel Kennedy – for her willingness to help new teachers and always being upbeat and prepared.
	Hawthorne/ Homestead	Travis Zander – for tracking our students’ credit needs so diligently and providing credit retrieval solutions that match up with our student’s unique needs. He stays on top of this task, and we appreciate it.
	District Office/Maintenance	Tim Gilbert –for his commitment and positivity as we continue to take on new challenges and increased workloads. He is a team player who is always willing to step in and help with any task no matter the size. We also appreciate his morale-boosting donuts. He always knows how to brighten everyone’s spirits.