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Methacton Award of ExcellenceFor the significant contribution they make to the district in supporting their colleagues, our students and their families, as well as our entire community, Superintendent Dr. David Zerbe presents the Methacton Award of Excellence to six valued members of our staff per month - 3 members of our support staff, and 3 members of our teaching staff. The individuals you see pictured below have made significant contributions to our school community! Please join us in thanking and honoring them for their work here in the Methacton School District. Methacton PRIDE!
May - Farina/Aramark/First Student/Facilities
Sheila Davis - Accounts Payable Specialist (Farina)
Sheila Davis is an integral part of the Business Office team. Sheila has always been someone who you can count on to get the job done. She works diligently to process Purchase Orders and ensures that all payments are done correctly. This includes not only working with the requestors, but also the vendors. Even as we all deal with the challenges associated with the pandemic, nothing has slowed Sheila down. Whether working virtually or in the office, she displays a high level of commitment to her duties and to her colleagues.
Chris Kleinguenther - Coordinator of Technology (Farina)
Chris Kleinguenther has positively impacted our district’s technology infrastructure behind the scenes and is invisible to most of the people who count on his work day after day. A consummate professional, he works tirelessly to improve our data, our processes, and our procedures in pushing to greater efficiency and systemic accountability. He is a work horse and demonstrates not just a knowledge of the systems, but a relentless attitude in the pursuit of knowledge for himself and others to better troubleshoot and problem solve.
Patricia Newell - Food Services Administrative Clerk
Since we’ve welcomed a new Food Service Director this school year, Patricia Newell has been instrumental in helping onboard and acclimate a new face into the district with welcome arms. Her main responsibilities include but are not limited to: payroll, invoicing, catering reconciliations, meal tracking, CBA contracts, and helping wherever and whenever she is needed. Of special note, her connections with the staff that she has made over the last 8 years have truly made a difference and greatly impact the day-to-day operations. Those exceptional connections she's made go a long way towards making others feel welcome and supported in any location.
Stacey Sholly - First Student Dispatcher
Stacey Sholly is a seasoned Dispatcher in the Transportation office. She is the definition of “grace under fire”. Stacey handles the stressful changes in dispatch, that happen at a moment’s notice, with safety in mind. She is willing to gain education in new areas of the transportation industry. She always has a positive attitude, which lightens the stress in the office. She handles our customer’s questions with a caring and compassionate attitude. These are just some of the attributes Stacey brings to assist in the transportation of the Methacton community.
Ruth Walker - Head Custodian at Woodland
Ruth Walker has been a dedicated employee of Methacton School District since 1994, beginning as a Casual on Call for the District. In 2009, Ruth transitioned to the Facilities Department. Her hard work and dedication has proven her a vital part of our team and has now lead Ruth to take on the roll as Head Custodian at Woodland Elementary. Her leadership skills and her pride in doing the best for the school community makes her an exemplary member of the Methacton School District Team.
Gary Horn - Grounds/Utility Foreman
After retiring from the U.S. Navy, Gary Horn became a member of the Methacton School District Team in 2002. Through the many years working on the grounds crew, Gary managed to obtain his pesticide license, which lead him to take on the role as Grounds/Utility Foreman for the Methacton School District. His attention to detail, work ethic, and support to those around him makes Gary a vital leader for the grounds crew and the District.
April - Eagleville Elementary School
Michele Vitelli - Secretary to the Principal
Over the course of my first year at Eagleville, Michele Vitelli has proved to be an invaluable resource for me to tap into on a daily basis. While Michele is also new to her position as Secretary to the Principal, she continually amazes me with her passion and energy that she puts into the job. On a regular basis Michele has the information ready, many time before I even ask for it. She presents all that enter the Eagleville office with a warm smile and friendly greeting. Teachers, parents, our Home and School, and students know Michele will be there for them on a moment’s notice to support and provide assistance. What strikes me special about Michele is her connection to the students. Michele knows them all by name, and she is able to relate to the students on a personal level. We are thankful for the commitment to excellence that Michele brings to Eagleville each and every day. Michele Vitelli is the face of Eagleville for all that come into our office, and I thank her for her commitment to the Eagleville and Methacton community.
Leslie Vernacchio - Aramark Head of Eagleville Kitchen
Leslie Vernacchio not only runs the kitchen at Eagleville Elementary, in many ways she is the heart of the school also. Leslie makes sure the kitchen is humming every day with efficiency and preparedness. The day starts with breakfast for many of our Eagleville students, and Leslie is there every day with a warm smile and greeting making sure the students head off to class with a full belly. As soon as breakfast wraps up it is on to preparing lunch for all the students. Leslie makes an effort to develop relationships with the students, and you can tell by the way they react to her they know she is in their corner. From warm donuts in the morning to hot lunches later that day, Leslie is always there for the Eagleville students.
Gail Brown - 2nd Grade Teacher
Gail Brown welcomes her students to her classroom with a smile. Her classroom exudes warmth, safety, and a love of learning. When you walk in at any time to Gail’s classroom, you will see children engaged, happy, and excited about school. Gail is comfortable taking risks such as integrating new and exciting technology into her daily lessons. Gail is respected by the teachers, students, and community, and she is involved in so many ways with our Eagleville community. Not only does she present interesting and engaging instruction during the school day, she also heads up the after school Environmental Club at Eagleville. The Environmental club under Gail’s direction is responsible for such great additions to the school like the outside classroom and butterfly garden. Gail is not only a great educator, she is also a respected and trusted role model for our students.
Bill Moser - Physical Education Teacher
Mr. Moser or Coach Moser is a Methacton alumni and well known for his wrestling exploits while attending Methacton High School. To the students of Eagleville he also goes by Coach Moser or Mr. Moser, but he is more importantly their Physical Education teacher and a source of weekly exercise and fun. Bill Moser not only believes in physical fitness and education, he also ensures the students believe in it too. Gym class at Eagleville is filled with fun games, coaching, and collaboration. Mr. Moser teaches the students the skills that are important to learn when living a healthy lifestyle, but more importantly many of these skills can also be used in their classrooms and at home. When visiting the gym at Eagleville you will be greeted with activity, laughter, music, and perhaps an American Ninja Warrior obstacle course. Mr. Moser also coaches wrestling at the middle school and runs the after school sports club at Eagleville. We are fortunate that he came back to the Methacton community to pursue an educational and coaching career.
Kristen Evans - Playground Aide
Kristen Evans is a fixture at Eagleville and someone the children can trust when they interact with her each day. Kristen is much more than a playground aide, she is the ambassador of fun for our students. While she ensures the children play in a fun and safe manner at recess, she also runs the indoor recess cart, helps out in the cafeteria assisting students, and always makes herself available for the office staff as an extra set of hands. Kristen makes it a point to know the students personally so they feel she is always there when they need help. Kristen bringing in bouncy balls and sidewalk chalk for the students are just two examples of her generosity towards the students. Kristen will always be the ambassador of fun at Eagleville, and we are thankful for her positive attitude and energy which she brings to school every day.
Deborah Wittenberg - Third Grade Teacher
Deb Wittenberg loves to teach and it is evident that she brings the love of learning to the students in her classroom. Deb builds connections with her students very quickly, and the rapport and trust they show towards her is truly remarkable. It seems that if you walk by her classroom at any point of the day there is an experiment, read aloud, technology lesson, or some other interesting topic being covered. What you are guaranteed to see is Deb Wittenberg interacting with her students to spark their interest in learning. Not only is Deb an exceptional teacher, she is also a teacher leader at Eagleville. The staff trust her advice including the principal! If there is one shining example of what Deb Wittenberg is about, it would have to be the fact that she truly cares for her students and their lives beyond the walls of Eagleville. The students know this and that is why they feel respected and cared for in Mrs. Wittenberg’s classroom.
March - Woodland Elementary School
Dawn Hess - Learning Support Teacher (image above - far left)
During the summer of 2019, Woodland 4th grade teachers started exploring the idea of including learning support students in the regular education classroom during core instructional times. From the earliest conversations, Mrs. Hess was motivated to succeed. Being the 4th grade Learning Support teacher, Dawn knew she needed to empower all learners. This meant not only focusing on student learners, but also acknowledging herself and other teachers as learners. She provided guidance, support, and ideas that created an environment where all the teachers in fourth grade could trust in their team approach. Successful change is difficult when people are given the impression that what they have done for years is wrong. Mrs. Hess knew she needed to honor the rituals, practices, and heritage of the past. Her goal was to take successful past activities and approaches to learning and tweak them to include all students. Appreciating diversity became the common theme when the team planned together. Mrs. Hess helped teachers uncover a multitude of diverse learning styles in order to develop the richest lessons for all students. This commitment to growth was immediately evident. From the first day of school, I could see Mrs. Hess’s ideas starting to transform the future of Woodland practices. Mrs. Hess’s leadership opened the door to new opportunities for Woodland students and teachers. This year, Mrs. Hess, along with the entire fourth grade team nurtured the talents of every learner, student and teacher alike.
Andrea Engler - Music Teacher (image above - far right)
Mrs. Engler is Woodland’s music teacher whose “growth mindset” is embedded in everything she does. She views success, not as making it to the finish line, but rather the completion of the small steps along the way. This philosophy helps every Woodland learner stay motivated to succeed. One of the most difficult tasks for some students is performing in front of others. Mrs. Engler empowers all her learners with the confidence needed to do their best. Whether it’s singing in front of their class, or performing on stage during the winter or spring concerts, Woodland students are eager to take risks because of Mrs. Engler. As a crucial member of the elementary music department, Mrs. Engler trusted in her team to incorporate Move It, which is putting motions to music, into the entire elementary music curriculum. Mrs. Engler honors musical heritage by exposing students to influential composers who may have overcome significant obstacles. She uses composers as role models for students to promote the idea of continuous growth, even through adversity. As illustrated by her selection of certain musical pieces and her development of ethnic dances with the students, Mrs. Engler respects and appreciates diversity and is committed to the growth of every student. Music can transform the future, not strictly by the creation of it, but also by the positive character traits it develops as students are exposed to teachers like Mrs. Engler. Andrea’s work on the “third grade informance” and all of the concerts/performances that happen throughout the year at Woodland, has opened new opportunities for Woodland families. Mrs. Engler nurtures the talents of every Woodland student, teacher, staff member and, yes, even the principal.
Darlene Balaguer-Piernock - Third Grade Teacher
Mrs. Balaguer-Piernock is a pioneer in the forward movement of Methacton teachers. As a third grade teacher, she is motivated to see everyone (students and teachers) succeed. For decades, Mrs. BP has empowered all learners by providing training to teachers in topics including STEM, Mindfulness, Class DoJo, Nearpod, and technology usage. Mrs. BP embraces the “Power of We” as she strives to bring teachers together to share ideas and continually collaborate. This trust in teamwork has made her a leader throughout the district and a valuable voice in the development of science curriculum. As a teaching veteran and a graduate of Methacton, Mrs. BP honors Methacton heritage and traditions. She has seen a lot of change, but stays true to the fact that students’ needs come first. In the last two years, Mrs. BP has appreciated the diversity at Woodland by helping lead the teachers into more inclusionary practices. Her commitment to see every student grow is exemplified by her creative approach to teaching and learning. It is my belief that with teacher leaders like Mrs. BP, we can transform the future of Methacton. She is a forward thinker who promotes creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking (the 4 C’s) at the elementary level. Mrs. BP knows that these 21rst century skills will help students open the door to new opportunities when they enter the real world; so she embeds them in everything she does. Mrs. Darlene Balaguer-Piernock nurtures the talents of students and teachers at Woodland Elementary School.
Paula Bauer - Instructional Assistant
Imagine walking into a room where nobody speaks your language. It would be scary. Mrs. Paula Bauer is the instructional assistant for English Language Learners and for her students, this fear is real. Mrs. Bauer helps break the language barrier and motivates all students to succeed. Mrs. Bauer focuses on the importance of creating a sense of belonging which empowers all learners. Circulating throughout different grade levels, Mrs. Bauer promotes the sense of trust in teamwork as she strives to assist teachers in every aspect of instruction. One way that Mrs. Bauer creates that strong sense of belonging is by honoring the heritage of her students. She asks questions and takes a true interest in their customs and traditions. Being part of a community involves respecting and appreciating diversity. Mrs. Bauer finds books, activities, and lessons about her students’ culture by encouraging them to share with other students. Mrs. Bauer is committed to watching her students grow in the English language, as well as, socially and emotionally. Mrs. Bauer helps to transform the future for our English Language Learners because she makes them feel capable and connected to our Woodland community. By establishing positive relationships, Mrs. Bauer shuts the door of fear and opens the door to new opportunities. When you care about students the way Mrs. Bauer does, you nurture students’ talents and allow them to become amazing contributors to our communities.
Christina Haas - Instructional Assistant
In the most nurturing way possible, Mrs. Christina Haas motivates students to succeed. As the 4th grade Learning Support Instructional Assistant, Mrs. Haas has been a crucial part of the inclusion process. Her “you can do it” attitude empowers even the most reluctant learner. Every member of the fourth grade team trusts her ability to work with any team member. Having had two children graduate from Methacton, Mrs. Haas has a deep respect for district traditions and honors the Methacton heritage that has been part of her family for so long. Mrs. Haas jumps from class to class, teacher to teacher, and always seems to enjoy and appreciate the diversity of her roles. Whether she is working one-on-one with a student, reviewing with a small group, or supporting with a behavior issue; -Mrs. Haas is committed to the growth of every student she works with. I see Mrs. Haas walk the same student out to the bus every day. The compassion and love that Christina shows this student will transform the future of this child. Mrs. Haas’s hard work with students has opened them up to new opportunities that they not have had otherwise. If every adult could nurture the talents of children like Mrs. Haas does, the world would be one amazing place.
Robin Faulkner - Secretary to the Principal
For eight months, I have seen Mrs. Robin Faulkner motivated to succeed. She has been in the district for over two decades and last summer started a new role as Woodland’s Secretary to the Principal. Mrs. Faulkner knew she needed to learn the intricacies of Woodland, so she empowered herself to gain all the skills necessary for the office run smoothly. This was Mrs. Faulkner first time working in Woodland and almost immediately, she gained the trust of our entire team. She has always been a part of the Methacton community. Her sons graduated from Methacton and she worked at Arrowhead as an office assistant. Mrs. Faulkner honors the Methacton heritage by illustrating a superior work ethic and desire to excel. As she serves our families, she appreciates the diversity that Woodland has to offer. Her commitment to growth in the effectiveness and efficiency of the Woodland office, allows her to tackle any new situation with confidence. I believe that our new secretary will help us transform the future of Woodland as we continually strive to create the most welcoming and family friendly environment. When Mrs. Faulkner agreed to leave the comfort of Arrowhead, she opened the door to new opportunities, experiences, and friendships at Woodland. As always, Mrs. Faulkner and the entire office staff are crucial in helping create an environment that nurtures the talents of every Woodland community member.
February - Arrowhead Elementary School
Heidi Parente - Office Assistant
Mrs. Parente exemplifies what Arrowhead stands for in her "team first" approach. She is student-centered, caring, and fun. She helps with our Watch D.O.G. Program with photos, a schedule, and a building tour. She is always willing to lend a helping hand to students, teachers, or staff. Her work ethic is outstanding. Thank you for everything you do for Arrowhead students, school and our community. Tremendous work Mrs. P!
Audrey Zelli - Instructional Assistant
Mrs. Zelli serves Arrowhead students as an instructional assistant within our K-2 learning support classroom. Mrs. Zelli demonstrates a positive attitude with students and staff. She always has a smile on her face. Her pleasant and calm demeanor add to the climate and culture of Arrowhead School. She is the ultimate team player and Arrowhead is fortunate to have Mrs. Zelli on staff. Outstanding performance Mrs. Zelli!
Tracey Jones - Instructional Assistant
Mrs. Jones serves Arrowhead students as an instructional assistant in our grade 3 and 4 learning support classroom. She is positive and models cooperation. In addition, she displays patience and perseverance in her work interactions. She works diligently to establish a positive and encouraging rapport with our students. Thank you for all of your hard work throughout this school year!
Betty Grabfelder – 3rd Grade Teacher
Mrs. Grabfelder is a 3rd teacher at Arrowhead Elementary School. I am proud to have her on our staff. She has a wonderful sense of humor. Betty has a wonderful laugh but more notably she is deeply committed to educating the whole child. She has taught not only her students but her colleagues the power of building positive and nurturing relationships with students and families. She is loved by her students, the faculty, and the Arrowhead Community. Thank you Betty for everything you do to make Arrowhead such a wonderful learning environment.
Debbie Smith – Physical Education Teacher
Ms. Smith is a physical education teacher at Arrowhead Elementary School. She has provided our students with so many wonderful and worthwhile physical education opportunities. Ms. Smith has been instrumental in establishing our recess running club. She engaged our students in our annual Jump Rope for Hearts Campaign and field days. Debbie has taught us the power of mindfulness and how to stay healthy and fit. She is committed to educating students and staff to become healthy and fit. Thank you for all that you do at Arrowhead Debbie! Well done!
Michele Sinnott - Music Teacher
Mrs. Sinnott leads the Arrowhead music program with passion and care. This passion and care has translated the Arrowhead chorus into record numbers this year. Mrs. Sinnott’s energy and passion for teaching students music is outstanding. Students are proud to show their musical talents and this is a direct result of Mrs. Sinnott’s vision and encouragement toward students. She has been instrumental in leading our chime choir and students love this club. She also coordinated our annual family folk night, where we had a record community attendance. Lastly, our students performed various musical performances in the during music in our schools month, which occurred in March. Mrs. Sinnott is an excellent role model, leader, and teacher for Arrowhead students and community. Sing like no one is listening!
January - Methacton High School
Bill Clark - Technology Education Teacher
Mr. Clark began at Methacton High School in 2000 and is completing his 20th year with our district. He started his career as an English teacher and has since moved into teaching MHS television production courses, which include the morning Warrior News announcements, broadcasting and broadcast production. Additionally, Mr. Clark teaches several Photography courses. In the past, he has taught Journalism and run the student newspaper. Mr. Clark has a passion for what he does and is a master of his curriculum. He is able to share his expertise with both his students and his colleagues. Mr. Clark embodies the qualities of a superb teacher. He is caring, creative, student-centered, engaging and motivating. Beyond his work in the classroom, Mr. Clark is always willing to lend a hand and support both staff and students. Most days you will find Mr. Clark working late and arriving early while filming the many events that take place at MHS. Bill Clark is a gifted educator and mentor to the students of our school and an invaluable member of the Methacton family.
Bob Lenahan - Driver Education Teacher
Bob Lenahan has been a teacher at Methacton High School for nineteen years. Bob is one of the few teachers in Methacton High School who teaches the majority of students who attend here. As our Drivers Education instructor, Bob facilitates the development of life-saving mindsets and skills among young drivers. Bob is a student-centered teacher. He always has students’ welfare first in all his school duties such as parking permit management and parking lot supervision. Bob directs traffic at dismissal every day. This is a tremendous responsibility for the safe departure of hundreds of vehicles holding thousands of students and staff. Bob is so much more than a Methacton employee because he is 100% invested in the safety and development of our students. He is a dynamic instructor and a dedicated and caring professional who makes a difference in the lives of our students and staff every day.
Cheryl Peiffer - School Nurse
Cheryl Peiffer is an alumna of Methacton High School who has distinguished herself throughout her career with many contributions to her profession, and her community. She is a leader and advocates making a positive difference in the lives of the students in Methacton School District, her colleagues and the community in which she resides. During her nearly thirty years as a nurse in Methacton School District, Cheryl has also served as Department Coordinator of Nursing Services, a class sponsor for two high school classes through their four years of high school, coordinator of the Red Cross student and staff blood drives, Building Representative for Methacton Education Association (MEA), a member of the Methacton School District Work Place Safety Committee, and a member of the Act 48 Committee 2005-2018. Cheryl is also active in local, state and national organizations including serving as the President of the Pennsylvania Association of School Nurses and Practitioners, Secretary of the Montgomery County School Nurse Association, the PA Director of National Association of School Nurses (NASN), and several officer positions with the Pennsylvania State Education Association. Additionally, Cheryl has volunteered her time as the Executive Director of the Youth Aid Panel and a member of the Board of Directors for the Lower Providence Community Ambulance. Cheryl is a distinguished leader of the Methacton community.
Lorraine Deegan - Administrative Assistant
Lorraine Deegan has served the Methacton School District for the last 8 years, during which time she has performed at an exemplary level as administrative assistant to Dr. Karey Kochenour and Mr. Dan Bontempo. Through the years, Lorraine has interacted with thousands of students under stress as they were called to the assistant principals’ office. She has always made students feel valued and respected. She has been kind and nurturing to them on their arrival. She has eased their stress levels with compassion for their issue. Lorraine is very well organized. She maintains all the necessary operational information for immediate retrieval and is a true leader in the office. Her knowledge base is outstanding. She assists with very technical operations such as scheduling of all teachers and students, as well as AP testing, which are two important tasks. It is a pleasure to work with Lorraine. She is a positive person who brings a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere to the administrative office. She is a truly outstanding and committed Methacton employee.
Julie Hunsberger - Instructional Assistant
Ms. Julie Hunsberger, in her 17th year as an instructional assistant here at Methacton, has a true passion for helping students find success inside the classroom. Her students find Ms. Hunsberger to be extremely helpful, caring and reliable. Julie’s long-time co-teacher described her in this way: “Having Ms. Hunsberger in the room is like having another certified teacher working one on one with the students. Ms. Hunsberger is dedicated, knowledgeable, and always has the students' best interests in mind.” Julie is a true professional and she is passionate about representing Methacton High School with the utmost dignity and honor.
Butch Langheim - Head Custodian
One of the most remarkable aspects of Methacton is the number of alumni who have come back to work and serve the students of our school districts in a wide variety of roles. Such is the case of Butch Langheim, a proud graduate of Methacton High School. Butch has served Methacton for nineteen years as a custodian in a multitude of buildings and most recently as head custodian at the High School, a job that mandates dedication well beyond the standard workday. Butch can be found here in the building on nights, weekends and even holidays, making sure that everything is working properly. It can truly be said that Butch leads by his example of service: service to the students and staff of Methacton High School as head custodian and service to the Methacton community as an officer in the Lower Providence Volunteer Fire Department. The best compliment that Butch can be given is to recognize him for the good man of exceptional character and the highest integrity for which he is known in the community. Butch is beloved by the entire Methacton community and his good work will be known for years to come.
December - Worcester Elementary School
Linda Sapp - Principal's Secretary
Linda Sapp is a graduate of Methacton. She has served as a secretary in the district for the past thirty years. During the summer of 1999, Linda worked to prepare for the reopening of Worcester in our new facility. According to Worcester Principal Brian Shaffer, Linda has been integral to his success, serving as both confidant and friend. Her institutional knowledge is limitless and her insight has proven invaluable!
Carrie Loughran - Office Assistant
Carrie Loughran serves as one of our Office Assistants. She has created multiple organizational charts to better manage change in dismissal requests as well as our RSVP procedure for our Fall Festival. Carrie is an integral member of our Dismissal Team, using Google Docs and the intercom system to dismiss students. She also uploads pictures and reminders to our television, improving our communication with families. Carrie recently created our “Golden Spoon Trophies,” which are proudly displayed on cafeteria tables during lunch. Carrie’s outgoing personality makes each day more enjoyable!
Mary Jo DeRosato - Office Assistant
Mary Jo DeRosato serves as one of our Office Assistants. She has been a great asset with the distribution of safety information, including our Emergency Packets, as well as the updated Bully Policy. Mary Jo also assists our Home and School Association and sponsors of various clubs with communicating essential information to our families. Her willingness to assist others without direction is appreciated. Mary Jo’s kindness shines through her actions and words!
Shannon Snyder - Counselor
Shannon Snyder has served as school counselor for Worcester since the building was reopened in Fall 1999. She offered her assistance and has led a committee to plan and facilitate the school's upcoming 20th Anniversary event, which is scheduled for December 2019. In addition, Shannon coordinated a presentation from NED. This assembly was presented at no cost to the school or district. Students enjoyed a powerful message from NED who reminded us to: Never give up. Encourage others. Do your best! After the assembly, Shannon facilitated a yo-you sale with the proceeds being used to “pay it forward” so another school could benefit from the wise words of NED.
Devan Thomas - Learning Support Teacher
Devan Thomas serves as one of our learning support teachers. During the first few days of school, Devan’s energy and leadership proved invaluable as our team collaborated to revamp our dismissal process. Devan quickly took the lead with organizing the students inside our lobby and with dismissing them to the bus loading area. Devan also volunteered to assist our Cub Scouts during our Veteran’s Day assembly. She stepped in without hesitation, guiding them with the presentation of colors and with leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Devan is a tremendous asset to our school community.
Jodi Lattanze - School Nurse
Jodi Lattanze who is known to our school community as Nurse Jodi has been a tremendous support since the start of the school year. She supports the health and wellbeing of our students as well as our staff. Nurse Jodi recently coordinated our first flu clinic, assisting sixty-seven students and twenty staff members with their annual flu shot. Nurse Jodi also supports student safety during admission and dismissal. Her ability to support multiple students simultaneously is impressive! Despite the busyness of her office, Nurse Jodi always maintains her composure, greeting each patient with a kind smile.
November - Skyview Upper Elementary School
Lori McCarthy - 6th Grade Math Teacher
Mrs. McCarthy is a 6th Grade Math teacher on Team USA at Skyview. She works diligently to meet student instructional needs and has created a classroom environment where students can work on new skills and where students know that it is okay to not understand something or be successful the first time because she will always be there to help. She collaborates with her colleagues – both on her team and within the math department. She cares about her students' well-being and demonstrates this in all she does in our school.
Kristen Brun - 5th Grade ELA & Social Studies Teacher
Mrs. Brun is a 5th Grade ELA and Social Studies teacher on the Stars team. She demonstrates care and patience with her students. Her caring nature supports students in extending their learning. She has created a classroom environment that supports collaboration. Her most recent peer collaboration project involved implementing the use of interactive reader’s notebooks in class. She continually seeks to plan for engaging instruction and is a valued collaborator among her colleagues.
Ben Greenover - Librarian
Mr. Greenover is transforming the Skyview Library into a collaborative space for students to engage in reading, learning valuable library and research skills and creating in the makerspace. Students enjoy being in the library and engaging in learning centers. Mr. Greenover has created a welcoming environment where both students and staff want to be. He models collaboration with his special area colleagues and we look forward to the collaborative projects between technology education and library in the coming year.
Toni Jones - 5th Grade Instructional Assistant
Mrs. Jones is an Instructional Assistant on the 5th grade Storm Chasers team. She is dedicated to helping students on the team. She is often complimented by families for the level of care she provides to students. She is a nurturer and works tirelessly to meet student needs.
Janet O'Connor - 6th Grade Instructional Assistant
Mrs. O’Connor is an Instructional Assistant on 6th Grade Team USA. Mrs. O’Connor works with students daily to help them with the routine of their school day and to help them to build positive academic habits. She demonstrates care in fulfilling all of her responsibilities and is a key member of Team USA.
October - Arcola Intermediate School
Eddie McCaffrey - General Music Teacher
Mr. Eddie McCaffrey has been in the district since 1999 as our general music teacher and choral coach. During our auditorium renovation, he took on a lead role in assisting and supporting the work that was being done. His strengths are his positive and supportive attitude, reliability and the ability to bring staff together reminding us all the reason we are here- to do what is best for kids.
Colleen Heidel-Butler - 8th Grade Instructional Assistant
Ms. Colleen Butler came to the district in 2016. She is an eighth-grade instructional assistant who truly loves working with children. She enters our building each day with a smile and is grateful for being able to help all students. Her kind, caring and compassionate manner are her strengths as she assists our students and staff daily.
Mary Williamson - 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher and Department Coordinator
started in the district in 2005 as our grade 8 social studies teacher. She is known and respected among colleagues as the kind, silent and strong leader in her department and team. She enters the building each day with a big smile and a very positive attitude. When asked how are you today, her response is always, “I’m doing great and it’s going to be a great day!” Students love being in her room and she can often be seen acting out her lessons as her passion is truly teaching students and making history come alive!
Nicholle Starson - 7th Grade Special Education Teacher and Department Coordinator
Ms. Nicholle Starson started in the district in 2013 and has had several positions in a few buildings. Currently, she serves as a seventh-grade special education teacher and department coordinator who goes above and beyond in her role for students and staff. She has taken on a tremendous job over the past two years as part of the building scheduling committee and has worked diligently on our warrior win period. Her courage and willingness to step up and take the lead on initiatives have been a major help to our school community. Her strengths are her creative, caring and dedicated approach to students, staff and families.
Sophie Noblit - Head Secretary
Mrs. Sophie Noblit has worked in the district since 2002. As the head secretary, often referred to as the “boss”, she demonstrates a strong work ethic and each day and helps everyone with anything they need. Her genuine, caring and helpful manner are her strengths and she goes above and beyond each day. She will tell you that she never thought the Middle School was for her but now she is at home and truly belongs at Arcola.
Mary Jo "Jojo" Golden - Head Custodian
Ms. Mary Jo Golden has served in the district for 25 years. As the head custodian, she is the one who ensures that Arcola shines bright each day! She sees to it that all jobs are accomplished and she takes tremendous pride in the building and how everything looks both inside and out. No job is too big or small and her line is simply, “consider it done”! Her strengths are her work ethic, care and attention to detail.
