In today's society we are all so busy. We constantly are pushing ourselves and each other to do more and to be more. In our quest to #BeELITE, we often forget to stop and reflect and simply say "thank you". To pause and take the time to tell those that make our lives better that we appreciate them for all the little things and big things they do to enhance our journey.
Within the Hilliard City Schools, we focus on instilling a passion for growth in ourselves, our staff and our students. We push ourselves to #TheEdge each day to be the best for our students, colleagues, district, parents and the community we serve. We expect to be at the top of our profession. We push to be innovative, to take risk, to demonstrate a growth mindset and to stay above the line. We strive to provide a world class experience for our students that prepares them to be ready for tomorrow. We believe we have created this environment within our district because of the amazing staff that we have in front of our students each day. Those staff members all are relentless in their pursuit to #BeELITE in their classroom for their students.
So today we pressed pause and took time to simply say "thank you". To show gratitude for all the little and big things these professionals do each day to create a first class experience for our students. To let them know that they are appreciated and that their hard work does not go unnoticed. These teachers demonstrate a passion for growth which has created a classroom culture that promotes risk taking and fosters student growth both academically and socially! They are preparing students to be Ready for Tomorrow! THANK YOU!
We hope you enjoy reading about the first in a series of HCSD Walks of Gratitude!
Brown Elementary – Amber Furr
Amber is an exceptional teacher! When I think of our VBO’s, she exhibits all 3! Amber will “stand up and own” when she does not know something, would like clarification, or just wants to learn more. She has a true “passion for growth” as she willingly jumped on board with Blended Learning, Literacy Framework (Franki Sibberson’s work) and Math coaching opportunities to improve her instruction. Finally, Amber is a true team player and leads Brown’s Kindness Club. Another extraordinary thing about Amber that not many people know, is that she struggles with a disease that has her in pain more days than not. Despite this challenge, she never complains or draws attention to herself. Amber shows up for work every day with a positive attitude and displays true perseverance and grit!
Avery Elementary – Tina Johanni
It is an honor for me to select Tina Johanni as Avery's nominee. Tina has been with Avery for the past two years in our cafeteria. She greets students and staff with a warm smile all day every day. Tina is always sweet and energetic. Tina goes above and beyond for all our students no matter the situation. Staff began to recognize her positivity within her first few days at Avery. It is an honor to work with Tina on a daily basis!
J. W. Reason Elementary – Jerry Bickel
I appreciate the many things Jerry does in our school – he goes above and beyond!
Norwich Elementary – Beth Kaufman
Beth is a shining example of "Power of the Team". Beth is in and out of many classrooms in her role, and she makes each student and teacher she works with feel as if they are her only responsibility! She takes great pride in getting to know her students on a personal level and they always look forward to their time with Mrs. Kaufman. Beth also 'broadcasts' happiness in her daily roles. She is always smiling, checking in on others, and showing great spirit in her work. Her positive energy is contagious to all of those around her. Beth is also flexible and goes above and beyond to support others when needed. She is always looking for ways to grow professionally and has the highest level of professionalism. We are fortunate to call Beth part of the team at Norwich!
Darby Creek Elementary – Tom McGinnis
Tom is an essential member of the Darby Creek community. He is beloved by students because they genuinely feel that he cares about each one as a unique and important individual. Tom quickly establishes relationships with students, engages with them through playful interaction, and takes the time to listen as children share the details of their lives with him throughout the many school environments. Tom is the superhero of the school – he is everywhere you need him to be and willing to do anything that might be necessary. In addition to the connections and relationships he establishes and maintains with students, Tom’s leadership on the custodial team at Darby Creek is exceptional. He is always mindful of the many details that are required in order to prepare and maintain the building at the start and throughout each academic year. Because of his commitment to details being attended to with the highest work ethic, the physical space at Darby Creek is clean, safe, and inviting.
Alton Darby Elementary – Joanne Clayton
I would like to nominate Joanne Clayton, my secretary extraordinaire! Joanne stepped up when my other secretary moved to Cincinnati and quickly learned to do crucial tasks that she had not done before. She stays late and will often catch up over the weekend to make sure the next week is as smooth as possible.
Ridgewood Elementary – Nicolette Landon
Nicolette’s passion for coaching is exemplified not only in schoo,l but whenever and wherever one may be when talking about learning. Nicolette has the knowledge and natural ability to collaborate with peers and offer support to push teachers to their edge and help them grow professionally while focusing on the needs of students. Nicolette’s positive demeanor helps contribute to her success. You will find her helping teachers in school, Central Office, Hilliard U, at home, and even in a grocery store! Nicolette is a true ambassador of Ridgewood and Hilliard City Schools.
Horizon Elementary – Kim Sutton and Suzy Dawson
Kim and Suzy go above and beyond the role of secretary. They wear many hats throughout the day and get little gratitude. Horizon is a busy school with lots of action happening every minute. Thank you for organizing and supporting our days to make it such a successful place for kids. Many times the praise goes to the teachers and the administration for all of the work that is done, but it is Kim and Suzy that keep us running. Thank you for giving your time and love to the students and families that walk into the office. You are the smiling faces that start the day and the encouragement to students that end the day. We are so grateful for all you do!
Alton Darby Preschool – Michelle Tomek
With many changes in building personnel, Michelle has been a vital part of making this transition happen effectively and efficiently. Michelle truly exhibits Power of the Team and Think We, Not Me! Her dedication to the team has a positive impact on the entire building. The staff greatly appreciates all of the time and effort that Michelle gives to our students and families. Michelle’s passion for our students and the building culture is what help makes HCSD such a great place to be!
Hilliard Crossing Elementary – Sandy Nagy
Sandy goes above and beyond for our students on a regular basis. Even as a tutor, Sandy has stepped up and taken the lead in the ELL department as we transition in our new ELL teacher. Sandy has come in on her own time to test students and has helped to maintain our sanity as we have been inundated with many new ELL move-ins. Sandy has been maintaining our ELL database, analyzing pre-LAS/LAS tests to answer staff and parent questions and has worked tirelessly to schedule students into support groups. Sandy realizes that she has become the ELL “expert” in our building and has taken the new staff and students under her wing. In addition, Sandy has stepped up to lead our student leadership group (Choose to Lead) when our current staff stepped down. Sandy will do anything for any of us and has truly modeled the Think WE mentality for all of us at Hilliard Crossing!
Washington Elementary – Scott Stevens
Mr. Stevens' impact on Washington Elementary can be seen and felt from the moment you walk in the door. Not only is he an extraordinary art teacher who uses a studio approach to encourage student voice and choice in their learning, but he is also the creator of all things "Wolfie." Mr. Stevens goes above and beyond for his students, and he also builds connections and partnerships with our Washington community through his work with our art club and PTO. He is also a leader in our One2One initiative providing tips, tricks, and troubleshooting help to our entire building. His positive attitude and problem solving mindset is an asset to our leadership team, and he is respected and appreciated by his colleagues. He embodies what it means to "think we not me," and he truly makes Washington a great place to work and learn for our staff and students. Thank you Mr. Stevens!
Britton Elementary – Teresa Blake
Teresa has become an essential part of the Britton Community, working tirelessly to support staff, students and families. Her positive energy is contagious, and she continuously goes above and beyond the described duties of her job as secretary to make sure that everyone Is connected and successful. She is detailed and efficient in all her work, kind and nurturing to our kids, and responsive to the needs of our staff. No matter what the request – if she is able, Teresa is willing. Her love for our Britton family is evident, and Britton is a better place because she chooses to give her talents to us.
Brown Elementary – Amber Furr
Amber is an exceptional teacher! When I think of our VBO’s, she exhibits all 3! Amber will “stand up and own” when she does not know something, would like clarification, or just wants to learn more. She has a true “passion for growth” as she willingly jumped on board with Blended Learning, Literacy Framework (Franki Sibberson’s work) and Math coaching opportunities to improve her instruction. Finally, Amber is a true team player and leads Brown’s Kindness Club. Another extraordinary thing about Amber that not many people know, is that she struggles with a disease that has her in pain more days than not. Despite this challenge, she never complains or draws attention to herself. Amber shows up for work every day with a positive attitude and displays true perseverance and grit!
Avery Elementary – Tina Johanni
It is an honor for me to select Tina Johanni as Avery's nominee. Tina has been with Avery for the past two years in our cafeteria. She greets students and staff with a warm smile all day every day. Tina is always sweet and energetic. Tina goes above and beyond for all our students no matter the situation. Staff began to recognize her positivity within her first few days at Avery. It is an honor to work with Tina on a daily basis!
J. W. Reason Elementary – Jerry Bickel
I appreciate the many things Jerry does in our school – he goes above and beyond!
Beth is a shining example of "Power of the Team". Beth is in and out of many classrooms in her role, and she makes each student and teacher she works with feel as if they are her only responsibility! She takes great pride in getting to know her students on a personal level and they always look forward to their time with Mrs. Kaufman. Beth also 'broadcasts' happiness in her daily roles. She is always smiling, checking in on others, and showing great spirit in her work. Her positive energy is contagious to all of those around her. Beth is also flexible and goes above and beyond to support others when needed. She is always looking for ways to grow professionally and has the highest level of professionalism. We are fortunate to call Beth part of the team at Norwich!
Darby Creek Elementary – Tom McGinnis
Tom is an essential member of the Darby Creek community. He is beloved by students because they genuinely feel that he cares about each one as a unique and important individual. Tom quickly establishes relationships with students, engages with them through playful interaction, and takes the time to listen as children share the details of their lives with him throughout the many school environments. Tom is the superhero of the school – he is everywhere you need him to be and willing to do anything that might be necessary. In addition to the connections and relationships he establishes and maintains with students, Tom’s leadership on the custodial team at Darby Creek is exceptional. He is always mindful of the many details that are required in order to prepare and maintain the building at the start and throughout each academic year. Because of his commitment to details being attended to with the highest work ethic, the physical space at Darby Creek is clean, safe, and inviting.
Alton Darby Elementary – Joanne Clayton
I would like to nominate Joanne Clayton, my secretary extraordinaire! Joanne stepped up when my other secretary moved to Cincinnati and quickly learned to do crucial tasks that she had not done before. She stays late and will often catch up over the weekend to make sure the next week is as smooth as possible.
Ridgewood Elementary – Nicolette Landon
Nicolette’s passion for coaching is exemplified not only in schoo,l but whenever and wherever one may be when talking about learning. Nicolette has the knowledge and natural ability to collaborate with peers and offer support to push teachers to their edge and help them grow professionally while focusing on the needs of students. Nicolette’s positive demeanor helps contribute to her success. You will find her helping teachers in school, Central Office, Hilliard U, at home, and even in a grocery store! Nicolette is a true ambassador of Ridgewood and Hilliard City Schools.
Kim and Suzy go above and beyond the role of secretary. They wear many hats throughout the day and get little gratitude. Horizon is a busy school with lots of action happening every minute. Thank you for organizing and supporting our days to make it such a successful place for kids. Many times the praise goes to the teachers and the administration for all of the work that is done, but it is Kim and Suzy that keep us running. Thank you for giving your time and love to the students and families that walk into the office. You are the smiling faces that start the day and the encouragement to students that end the day. We are so grateful for all you do!
Alton Darby Preschool – Michelle Tomek
With many changes in building personnel, Michelle has been a vital part of making this transition happen effectively and efficiently. Michelle truly exhibits Power of the Team and Think We, Not Me! Her dedication to the team has a positive impact on the entire building. The staff greatly appreciates all of the time and effort that Michelle gives to our students and families. Michelle’s passion for our students and the building culture is what help makes HCSD such a great place to be!
Sandy goes above and beyond for our students on a regular basis. Even as a tutor, Sandy has stepped up and taken the lead in the ELL department as we transition in our new ELL teacher. Sandy has come in on her own time to test students and has helped to maintain our sanity as we have been inundated with many new ELL move-ins. Sandy has been maintaining our ELL database, analyzing pre-LAS/LAS tests to answer staff and parent questions and has worked tirelessly to schedule students into support groups. Sandy realizes that she has become the ELL “expert” in our building and has taken the new staff and students under her wing. In addition, Sandy has stepped up to lead our student leadership group (Choose to Lead) when our current staff stepped down. Sandy will do anything for any of us and has truly modeled the Think WE mentality for all of us at Hilliard Crossing!
Washington Elementary – Scott Stevens
Mr. Stevens' impact on Washington Elementary can be seen and felt from the moment you walk in the door. Not only is he an extraordinary art teacher who uses a studio approach to encourage student voice and choice in their learning, but he is also the creator of all things "Wolfie." Mr. Stevens goes above and beyond for his students, and he also builds connections and partnerships with our Washington community through his work with our art club and PTO. He is also a leader in our One2One initiative providing tips, tricks, and troubleshooting help to our entire building. His positive attitude and problem solving mindset is an asset to our leadership team, and he is respected and appreciated by his colleagues. He embodies what it means to "think we not me," and he truly makes Washington a great place to work and learn for our staff and students. Thank you Mr. Stevens!
Britton Elementary – Teresa Blake
Teresa has become an essential part of the Britton Community, working tirelessly to support staff, students and families. Her positive energy is contagious, and she continuously goes above and beyond the described duties of her job as secretary to make sure that everyone Is connected and successful. She is detailed and efficient in all her work, kind and nurturing to our kids, and responsive to the needs of our staff. No matter what the request – if she is able, Teresa is willing. Her love for our Britton family is evident, and Britton is a better place because she chooses to give her talents to us.
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