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Jessica is a consistent and reliable volunteer for our District. We collaborate together on the PTAs at Hillcrest and NWMS and as active DPAC members. She also supports OHHS booster clubs. She selflessly dedicates so much of her time and talents so we can support students & staff with events such as book fairs, socials, staff appreciations, fundraisers, and many, many, many more! She is always ensuring we are cognizant of dietary restrictions and allergies to make sure everyone is included, like by bringing gluten free options. Another example of how Jessica fosters inclusion, is that she was the primary person helping our Art teacher prepare for the upcoming Art Walk which brings joy to so many students because they get to see their artwork displayed downtown! Jessica, with her beautiful baby boy at her side, spent many hours over several weeks to help mat, label, and prepare the art so HCE students can feel pride and a sense of belonging. We also had several events for students at risk of being cancelled due to not enough volunteers, but Jessica will always do what she can to be there so we don't have to cancel and always advocates for all students in whatever we are doing or trying to plan, she makes sure all students are represented and included in some way. When we are able to have student volunteers, Jessica naturally makes them feel valued and appreciated! Thank you!

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Ms Marci is such an asset and role model of excellence. She is often found supporting a student one-to-one, but maintains a keen awareness of the other students and environment. Several times over the past year, Ms Marci has gone above & beyond to help a student who is not doing well and we collaborate as a team to figure out how to best help a student. One example of this is when a non-verbal student was being unsafe by banging his head. She recognized this as unusual for him and was able to keep this student from causing grave injuries to himself and others while we coordinated efforts (including mom) to figure out what might be the trigger. We were able to come up with a plan that allowed him to stay at school because of her calmness, attentiveness, compassion and dedication...all of which she shows with all of her students. I have seen her manage many challenging situations with such grace, kindness and patience. The students are in such good hands as she has created a safe learning environment where she helps care for the well-being of the whole student, individually & collectively. She also makes me feel like a valued member of the Hand-in-Hand team!

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I cannot say enough good things about Lia! I have the honor to work with her while I am covering as a nurse at Hand-in-Hand and am impressed by her everyday. We have a very special population of students and often they scream at and hit Ms Lia, but she always remains calm and demonstrates such great patience especially while helping non-verbal students learn how to express their needs and frustrations. I often find Ms Lia sitting on the floor at the level of the children meeting their every need in the most caring way while providing a safe learning environment. She seems to know and understand all of the students not only in her class, but the others at recess and in the lunchroom always ensuring all are safe and included. She makes this sub feel included in the team and is a great resource who always looks out for all of the students! Thank you!

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Ms. Pat Tang exemplifies the Core Values of Oak Harbor Public Schools through her unwavering dedication to student success and community well-being at Broad View Elementary. As school counselor, she demonstrates Academic Excellence by providing targeted small group lessons that address diverse student needs. She provides whole group lessons based on the needs of the class. Her comprehensive approach ensures all students receive the emotional and academic support they require to thrive, regardless of their individual challenges or circumstances. These interventions have been instrumental in helping students develop essential skills that contribute directly to their social emotional progress and personal growth.

Ms. Tang embodies Inclusion & Belonging by collaborating with BVE staff to implement supportive strategies that create welcoming learning environments. Her presence in classrooms goes beyond occasional visits; she consistently works alongside educators to develop approaches that help students overcome obstacles and build confidence. By ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and valued, Ms. Tang has helped foster a school culture where differences are celebrated and all students feel they truly belong, creating the foundation necessary for academic success and emotional well-being.

Ms. Tang's commitment to Collaboration extends beyond the school walls through her extraordinary efforts to connect families with vital community resources. Her initiatives include organizing Rotary food bags for students experiencing food insecurity and coordinating holiday food deliveries during Christmas and Spring breaks in partnership with the PTA. These actions exemplify superior service by addressing basic needs that directly impact student readiness to learn. By creating these crucial support systems, Ms. Tang ensures that no student or family faces challenges alone, building bridges between the school and community that strengthen our entire educational system.

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Lauren is an amazing substitute. She answers our calls every morning and comes in with a smile an is ready to tackle any obstacle we ask her to. She is a very valuable asset to OVE!

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Hi. I would like to nominate Ms Kearney for her dedication to our students. She actively supports students in and out of the classroom, helping all students feel included. She can often be found at after school events, most of them actually, from sports to drama club and socials and everything in between! Some families are not able to be at events, so it is so nice to see her there supporting all the students with her high energy and positivity! She is great engaging with students and parents, putting everyone at ease and helping them feel comfortable in various situations. I have witnessed her welcome students and parents as they come into a packed gym looking lost and overwhelmed. It is so important for students to have a familiar and trusted person to help them socially, emotionally and academically succeed! Thank you!

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Originally stepping in as a short, long-term substitute, Ms. Brown seamlessly took on a full-year teaching role with dedication and heart. She collaborated closely with her co-teacher and the fifth-grade team, built meaningful relationships with students, and prioritized equity and inclusion in all she did. Even while facing personal health challenges, she remained a constant and joyful presence—often arriving early, staying late, and giving her all every single day. Her hard work, resilience, and passion for teaching made her an invaluable part of our school community.

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It is with great pride that we seek to recognize Mr. Nelson’s exceptional contributions to Oak Harbor Intermediate, which clearly reflect the district’s core values of Academic Excellence, Inclusion & Belonging, and Collaboration.

Academic Excellence:
Mr. Nelson, our band teacher, creates a dynamic, student-centered learning environment grounded in clear expectations, consistent routines, and strong formative assessment practices. His instruction is engaging, inclusive, and differentiated, using visual-verbal cues, modeling, and frequent checks for understanding. Through intentional lesson design and proactive classroom strategies, he empowers students to take academic risks, collaborate meaningfully, and reflect on their learning. His effective integration of technology enhances instruction, deepens engagement, and supports student growth.

Inclusion & Belonging:
Mr. Nelson fosters a positive, inclusive learning environment where all students feel safe, respected, and encouraged to participate. His classroom management is both proactive and responsive, ensuring that each student’s individual needs are met with care and consistency. The result is a respectful and productive space where students are supported both academically and emotionally.

Collaboration:
Mr. Nelson extends his impact beyond the classroom through his leadership and mentorship. As a teacher mentor, he has provided meaningful, ongoing support to his colleague, helping them transition successfully in working with fifth and sixth graders. His guidance has led to measurable growth in classroom management and student engagement for his colleague, reflecting Mr. Nelson’s investment in the success of others.
In his role as Master Schedule Committee Lead, Mr. Nelson has modeled exemplary collaboration and leadership. He begins each meeting with team-building activities and adult SEL connections, ensuring an inclusive and values-driven atmosphere. He leads with transparency and care, grounding decisions in union guidelines, legal frameworks, and the collective vision of the school. His communication has been timely, thoughtful, and focused on ensuring all staff feel informed and heard throughout the process.

Mr. Nelson is a dedicated educator whose work exemplifies the highest standards of our profession. His commitment to excellence, belonging, and collaboration has made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the school community

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It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Ms. Mays for the 2024–2025 Oak Harbor Public Schools Star of the Year Award. Ms. Mays exemplifies the Core Values of Academic Excellence, Inclusion & Belonging, and Collaboration through her outstanding leadership, dedication, and unwavering focus on student success.
At the building level, Ms. Mays has transformed how we support student attendance and social-emotional well-being. By leveraging data tools like Panorama and Skyward, she designs strategic interventions—including school wide incentives and targeted attendance groups—that not only improve student outcomes but also foster a culture of support and accountability. Her leadership in Building Leadership Team, Attendance Team, MTSS and CARE Team meetings demonstrates a deep understanding of systems-level thinking and a proactive approach to student support.
Ms. Mays is a fierce advocate for belonging and inclusivity. She engages families, staff, and administrators in meaningful dialogue, always centering student voice and need. Her thoughtful collaboration ensures that students—especially those facing barriers—receive personalized, wraparound services that nurture both academic growth and emotional resilience.
Beyond her building, Ms. Mays serves as a district counseling co-leader, playing a pivotal role in aligning OHPS’s suicide prevention efforts, integrating Universal Design for Learning practices, and expanding access to mental health education. Her leadership in forming the OHPS Suicide Prevention Committee and co-developing district protocols, screening tools, and resource templates showcases a commitment to safety, equity, and excellence.
Regionally, Ms. Mays co-founded a counseling group with ESD 189, delivering professional development on topics such as racial equity, suicide prevention, and mental health curriculum. These efforts have elevated counselor collaboration and ensured compliance with certification standards across the region.
In all she does, Ms. Mays leads with empathy, professionalism, and innovation. Her impact reaches well beyond the walls of Oak Harbor Intermediate and continues to shape the way we support every student, every day. She is a true star whose work deserves recognition across our district.

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Lisa is a para sub at Olympic View Elementary who has supervised a medically fragile student who has frequent seizures. Lisa has dedicated herself to advocating for this student and goes above and beyond to ensure her safety and well-being. She has been is multiple emergency situations and stays calm and reacts to best support the student. Lisa is beyond caring and always thinking about ways to best help. She is a huge asset to our special education program and Olympic View Elementary. I feel very fortunate to work with her and thankful for her advocacy for our special needs students.

Lisa stepped in as a long-term substitute for one of the most medically fragile students in our district, and she has embraced the role with exceptional care and dedication. I've witnessed her treat this student as if they were her own, consistently going above and beyond to ensure their well-being. She has become a tireless advocate, supporting this student day in and day out. On a recent class field trip, I was especially moved by how attentively she sought out the most comfortable and inclusive spaces for the student at every turn—making sure they were not only cared for but fully involved in every experience.

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As the head basketball coach at Oak Harbor High School, I am proud to nominate Drew Barnhardt for the Star of the Year award in the Community Partner or Volunteer of the Year category. Drew exemplifies everything Oak Harbor Public Schools stands for, and he has been an unwavering force of support, positivity, and leadership for our students and staff this year.
Drew’s contributions go far beyond occasional volunteering—he has become a consistent and vital part of our educational and athletic community. At the heart of his work is a deep commitment to Academic Excellence, Inclusion & Belonging, and Collaboration—the core values that drive Oak Harbor Public Schools.
Drew supports our high school basketball program in countless ways. He volunteers at nearly every practice, mentoring athletes not only in skill development but also in life lessons. His presence brings energy, guidance, and accountability that our students look up to. Each preseason, he organizes and personally provides a free breakfast at his church following our team’s run up Mount Erie. This act of generosity promotes community bonding and ensures every athlete—regardless of background—feels supported and included.
He extends his mentorship beyond our team. Drew volunteers as a coach in the 3v3 basketball league we run at the high school, which is open to youth across Oak Harbor. His involvement ensures equitable access to athletics, fostering inclusion and belonging for young people from all walks of life.
Additionally, Drew plays a major role at the Intermediate School, where he helps lead the Christian Club every other Wednesday throughout the school year. There, he creates a safe and welcoming space where students can grow in character and connection, supporting their social and emotional development in alignment with our district’s broader educational goals.
What sets Drew apart is how seamlessly he collaborates with staff, families, and students. Whether he’s coaching, mentoring, or helping with community events, Drew shows up with humility and heart. He’s a living example of collaboration in action, always ready to support, uplift, and serve—never seeking recognition, only impact.
Drew Barnhardt is more than a volunteer—he is a trusted partner, a role model, and a cornerstone of our school community. His service this year has been extraordinary, and I can think of no better person to be honored as Star of the Year in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the mission and values of Oak Harbor Public Schools.

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George is one of the most efficient workers I've ever seen in a school. He is proactive in his work, and he is never unwilling to help when help is needed. He interacts with students, showing his appreciation when they are helpful and-- when they're not--helping them to understand how to improve. When teachers need to use a space, he is eager to know how he can prepare it to best serve their needs. He has done a lot of jobs in his lifetime and probably knows a lot more about a lot of things than most people realize but his kindness, hard work, and humility remain steadfast.

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Kyle advocates for all of the students he serves. He is open at IEP meetings with parents and teachers about what he is seeing and what he believes would be best for students-- and why. He serves on both the MTSS and AVID Teams, in addition to coaching tennis. This year, one of the students on his caseload has struggled with behavior and has been suspended for an extended amount of time. Mr. Wendling has gone out of his way to continue to serve this students and fulfill his minutes at a distance-- both by giving up his prep for the majority of one trimester, and by creating a Google Classroom through which they can meet and work can be shared for the majority of another. He's dedicated and tireless in his efforts to help all students.

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It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Denise Waller for recognition as an outstanding Counselor who goes above and beyond in service to her students. Her unwavering commitment to student success, tireless work ethic, and deep compassion for those who often face the greatest challenges make her an invaluable asset to our school community.

Denise consistently puts in countless hours beyond the school day, staying late to ensure that every student is on track to graduate or has a clear, attainable path forward. Her dedication does not stop with academic support—she takes the time to connect with students on a personal level, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and empowered.

She is a fierce advocate, particularly for students who are often underserved or misunderstood—those facing disciplinary actions or at risk of falling through the cracks. With a special heart for these students, she provides them with the structure, guidance, and encouragement they need to believe in themselves and succeed. She gives every student a voice and ensures that no one is left behind.

In addition to her work with students, Denise collaborates regularly with her fellow counselors, creating a network of support that strengthens the entire school community. Her knowledge of graduation requirements is unmatched—she meticulously tracks student progress and leaves no stone unturned in finding alternative pathways for students to earn every possible credit. Whether it's credit recovery, course progression or testing proficiency, she finds a way to make success possible for each individual.

Denise exemplifies what it means to be a counselor, mentor, and advocate. Her relentless drive to see every student cross the finish line—no matter the barriers—is both inspiring and transformative.

She is more than deserving of this recognition, and I wholeheartedly support her nomination.

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Captain William Gray - Fleet Readiness Center, NAS Whidbey Island

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Captain William Gray - Fleet Readiness Center, NAS Whidbey Island

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Captain Gray is the leader of the Fleet Readiness Center at NAS Whidbey. For each of the past three years, the FRC has hosted more than 340 Oak Harbor 6th graders for a field trip at their facility. Students have received an inside peak at the many different STEM jobs that take place on the Navy Base.

Captain Gray has been an excellent partner and an enthusiastic supporter of these trips. He has been a great collaborator and a great problem solver. Due to his leadership and openness to feedback, each year we have made adjustments to the trip to make it a better learning experience for students.

Captain Gray and the other members of his team have helped make a memorable experience for our students due to their kindness, enthusiasm and thoughtfulness. We have felt very lucky to be partners with them.

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Fatima is very kind and helpful.

Fatima is always eager to help coworkers and students in the cafeteria she has demonstrated her willingness to offer help without being asked. Fatima comes to work with a smile when I was working during the summer meals program she offered to help me since I don’t have experience working in the school kitchen Fatima offered to help me without me asking. I have seen her work extra hard making sure the kitchen is clean and following state guidelines for prepping and cleaning the kitchen. Fatima is a very hard worker and a pleasure to work with.

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Ms. Squires embodies high academic expectations and growth mindset. She pushes her students to reach their potential and creates an environment where they feel confident to push their skills and grow emotionally. He classroom culture is one of respect and academic excellence. As a STEM teacher, she is exceptional, but she also doesn't shy away from supporting students in their reading and writing. She doesn't recognize "her subjects" or "her students"... instead, she focuses on the growth of all kids in all academic areas. She is also active in after school activities and clubs, making sure students experience a wholistic education inclusive of physical activity and the social emotional aspects of life. Ms. Squires is also a union representative, supporting her peers and making sure not just students, but all members of staff are in a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment.

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Dee is an exceptional teacher who pushes students to be successful with high expectations, but also scaffolding to allow all students to the information at their learning level. She started out the year as a long term substitute with OHI, opening up the classroom and guiding students until winter break. Then, in the spring, she took on another long term substitute position. Within both rooms, she has seamlessly moved into her position, built relationships with students, and created a learning environment where everybody is pushed to be their very best. She creates an environment for her peers of fun and laughter, is supportive and eager to share her teaching knowledge... she doesn't just make her students better, she makes whatever team she belongs to better also.

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Erika has helped create a positive environment for LGBTQ students, by giving them a place to meet, helping them in the creation of the first club of any kind at Home Connection, and functioning as one of the teacher supports for the club. Erika uses her platform as a English teacher to encourage all students to share their own experiences through literature, written essays and the spoken word as she challenges them to delve deeper into the subject area.

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As an Autistic and Neurodivergent paraeducator, Mr. Walker goes above and beyond to make sure all students are safe. He has a special connection with students because of his life experience being a neurodivergent. Each day he helps keep hundreds of students safe with a great amount of patience and understanding of the mind uniqueness of each individual. It would be a great honor to recognize the hard work he brings each day these last 8 school years to the district.

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Lorrena works in the Lifeskills classroom, and goes out into gen ed with students to support them in inclusion. Throughout her time in the classroom, she continuously shows up for our students in the biggest ways. She provides opportunities for our students to grow academically and as people. There is no task to big or small for her, and our team has been forever bettered by her presence.

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Ms. Wendy is passionate about educating, empowering, and guiding each student she works with to embark in their chosen journey to growth & independence through vocational support, community access, & an independent living toolbox. She holds high expectations that challenge students enough to grow & also scaffolds when needed so students feel supported, valued, & seen that they can accomplish & achieve goals, even on hard days; because we are human, so we have those. Ms. Wendy encourages each student to be themselves & finds opportunities for each student to grow & practice being confident in their choices through internships & networking in the community. She is that staff member you can rely on. Ms. Wendy represents putting students first everyday by staying late to advocate, to make sure every student is taken care of, & posting pictures of students' work & achievements so they feel & see their growth. I nominate Ms. Wendy because she is a superstar that deserves to be seen & celebrated even though she may be hiding behind the scenes or off in the corner. I see you, Ms. Wendy & I am proud you are shaping leaders.

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I would like to nominate David Davenport for the Inclusion and Belonging and Collaboration. He plays an essential role in creating a supportive, inclusive classroom environment.

This year, he has been especially calm, kind, and patient in working with a student who had never previously completed a full school day. Through the strong connection he has built with this student, he has helped increase the student’s comfort, confidence, and time in the classroom.

Mr. Davenport collaborates meaningfully with the teacher and consistently brings creative ideas to the classroom, such as “Fun Fact of the Day” and knitting with students during recess. His contributions make the classroom a welcoming and engaging place for all students to feel connected and valued.

His gentle, thoughtful approach has had a lasting impact on the students, and he exemplifies the spirit of inclusion and belonging every day.

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I would like to nominate Ms. Byers for the Inclusion and Belonging Award. She does an outstanding job creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.

This year, she welcomed a student who had never previously spent an entire school day in a classroom. Through collaboration with her paraeducator, she provided a structured, nurturing environment that supported the student’s ability to stay in the classroom, resulting in a significant increase in learning time.

In addition, Ms. Byers consistently supports her multilingual learners, ensuring that instruction is accessible and collaborates with our MLL TOSA to create and adjust lessons.

Beyond her work with specific student populations, Ms. Byers fosters a classroom culture where all students feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings, knowing they will be accepted especially in her morning meetings. As a result, students actively use language that supports one another in empathetic and respectful ways.

Her use of Dojo points as positive reinforcement is a favorite among students, and she has built a system where students work collaboratively toward classroom goals or “purchases” — a sense of teamwork and belonging that is unlike anything I have ever seen.

Her classroom feels like a family, and that is a direct result of the care, intentionality, and dedication she brings to creating an inclusive environment every day.

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We are proud to nominate St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. Their consistent and heartfelt support of our students and staff reflects a deep commitment to community partnership. Each month, they provide nutritious snacks that help ensure our students are ready to learn. They donate clothing for students in need, and their hand-crafted, beautifully painted benches create inviting spaces for students to rest and reset. Their volunteers have enhanced our garden space—bringing snacks for volunteers and helping students connect with the source of their food, encouraging healthy choices. St. Stephen's church exemplifies the spirit of #OneOakHarbor by investing in the well-being of our entire school community.

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I would like to nominate Sara Lucero for her exceptional leadership in advancing Inclusion & Belonging at our school. She works tirelessly to ensure every student at our school has access to high-quality, appropriately challenging learning experiences and she consistently advocates for instructional practices and systems that reflect that belief.

Her leadership pushes staff to reach higher and continue growing to meet the complexity of student learning needs. She is organized, focused, and goal-oriented—yet equally grounded in relationships. She takes the time to know students, listen to families, and support staff with both compassion and high expectations. Her tireless work ethic is matched by her warmth, and it’s clear to anyone who works with her how much she genuinely cares for every human she encounters. Through her example, she fosters a school culture where all students and adults feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and potential.

Mrs. Lucero exemplifies the true spirit of inclusion and belonging in everything she does. She places students at the center of every decision, ensuring each learner feels valued, understood, and celebrated for their unique characteristics, perspectives, and experiences. Relationships are at the heart of her approach to teaching and learning; she listens carefully to student voices and creates a safe, welcoming environment where everyone feels like they belong. Every child at our school knows Mrs. Lucero is in their corner — it’s clear in the way their faces light up when she walks by, a reflection of the deep trust, love, and care she pours into our community each day.

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Amy has worked tirelessly this year to create a safe and welcoming space for every student that walks through the doors at HomeConnection. Not only has she gone out of her way to help students feel heard and seen, whether it's by helping them with math or listening and empathizing when they've had a tough day. She also helped make possible a student-led social club built around inclusion and belonging, one of the district's Core Values.

Amy is the heart of the school, not just for its students, but also for its staff. She collaborates with teachers, advisors, and office staff to streamline purchase orders throughout the year for curriculum used by families and goes above and beyond to make the process as efficient and painless as possible for everyone involved.

She is an amazing human being and deserves to be recognized for all her hard work behind the scenes to make HomeConnection run smoothly as it continues to grow.

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Our speech Teacher, Hope, goes above and beyond her schedule to help students throughout the school. Checking in with students in between her speech schedule, visiting them in classes. She has a great rapport with students, staff and parents, and is always a friendly face in the hall.

Hope is a first year speech language pathologist here at CHE who goes above and beyond to collaborate with staff and support students and families. The level of knowledge and professionalism she displays is astounding for someone at the very beginning of her career. She works with several of my students and has developed genuine and caring relationships with them all. Her calm and friendly demeanor puts all those around her at ease. I have witnessed her expertly navigate potentially tense IEP meetings and assure parents that our team understands their children's needs and are working together for their success. I have one student who exited speech, but Hope has continued to check in with him regularly to help him through some struggles he is experiencing. I am thankful to have Hope here and am excited for the many, many children she will help as she moves forward in her career.

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I am proud to nominate Heidi Richard for the Star of the Year Award. She exemplifies the OHPS Core Values of academic excellence, inclusion and belonging, and collaboration in all she does. As a Special Education TOSA, she goes above and beyond to support students, staff, and families across the district.

Heidi works with all secondary schools and administrators to strengthen special education services and serves as a dedicated mentor to all new special education teachers. She organizes and attends every end-of-year transition meeting, ensuring smooth transitions for the next school year. This year, she also stepped in to take on multiple caseloads during teacher leaves—always willing to help wherever needed.

She attends several IEP meetings each week, contributes to special education curriculum pilots, and consistently takes on any task with professionalism and heart. Her tireless commitment, collaborative spirit, and passion for student success make her a truly exceptional member of our district—and a perfect choice for this honor.

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Allie Hanford has a heart of gold and OHPS is so lucky to have her as a volunteer. As a volunteer, Allie regularly volunteers at OHE and OHI. She will even step in and support PTA events at other school locations where she does not have children when there is a need. At OHE, Allie has been a regular volunteer for several YEARS who helps in Art and other classrooms. She still helps in second grade - even though both of her children have advanced to other grades. Students recognize Allie when they see her in art or other places throughout the school. She is a friendly face and safe place for some students to wave at when they pass her in the hallway. Allie will check in on students with a ""hello"" or sometimes just a smile. To the outside, someone might assume Allie is an employee. Allie volunteers her time every week to support the students and teachers at OHE. Allie helps Ms. Gmerek in many ways behind the scenes. OHE always has student art displayed throughout the school hallways and the front office. This artwork is changed out and Allie had a piece in that. She may be the one hanging the art up or she may be the one matting and adding little tags on the art pieces that show who the student artist is. This is great for staff, students and families to see and identify. You may also find Allie helping in the classrooms where she can spend time reading one on one with a student. If there is a special event during the school day you will also find her volunteering. Just recently she came as a volunteer for 3rd grade's math fact ice cream sundae party. She helps the PTA at events as well- both during school and after school. This year she has also started volunteering at OHI in the library. Allie does not have children attending this school, but still finds it beneficial to volunteer there. Aside from being at the school sites, Allie has shared her time with other groups and organizations that benefit OHPS. This is her third year (might need a fact check) as part of DPAC. She shows up to monthly meetings and listens, while also sharing her insight in such a respectful way. She is a respected member at DPAC. Where else can you find Allie volunteering her time? This year she was also part of CBS which helped support the Levy that was passed this year. Allie helped spread the word about the truths of the levy. She shared her personal insight into why supporting the Levy was important for out community. If you ever get to volunteer next to Allie, you will be amazed at her heart of gold that she shares freely with OHPS. Allie does not volunteer to be honored in an award such as this, but she 100% deserves to be.

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River Powers-Pageant Director

The Miss Oak Harbor Scholarship Pageant takes place in the spring and is open to 9th- through 12th-graders who identify as female and who live within Oak Harbor School District or attend a school within the district.
The Miss. Oak Harbor pageant is a unique 7-week program that focuses on personal and professional growth through the development of leadership, communication, and marketability.
Our goal is for all participants to gain confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment that will enable them to serve as role models for the youth of their community.
Contestants develop lasting friendships while competing to win thousands of dollars in scholarships and awards.
The Mr. Oak Harbor Scholarship Competition takes place in November. It is produced by the Mr. OH Club, which is made up of the current year's Miss Oak Harbor Scholarship Pageant contestants.
The competition is a 6-week program for high schoolers who identify as male and who live in or attend a school in the Oak Harbor School District.
The program provides targeted coaching that focuses on personal and professional growth. It is a unique opportunity for young men to develop skills, gain confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment, and to compete for college scholarships.
The Mr. OH Club spent months planning and fundraising for the 2nd annual Mr. Oak Harbor Scholarship Competition that culminated on pageant night when the 2024 Mr. Oak Harbor Royalty were crowned.
The 2024 Mr. Oak Harbor Court chose to advocate for a community rec center as their service project. Lucas Smith attended City Council to personally deliver their fundraising check to Mayor Ronnie Wright.
The 2024 Royalty hosted a Winter Ball for high school students at the Elks Lodge. Lots of dancing, food, and fun! A special shout-out to Teen Miss Oak Harbor Abby and Teen Second Princess Emelyn for their amazing planning and execution of the event.

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Carol Henry dedicates her free time to the Hillcrest Elementary Garden. She teaches lessons with 2nd Grade two afternoons a week. The kids learn hands on with the planting, watering, and weeding. She also shares the fresh vegetables with the children. Carol spends many hours out here all year to keep the garden looking it's best. She spends weekend hours and evenings lugging soil, and other garden necessities to the courtyard. Our garden is only possible because of Carol. Our school garden is open to all grade levels for outdoor lessons or projects. We love walking by the beautiful growing garden in C Pod. The kids love her patience and flexibility to include the kids in all steps. Her dedication, care, patience, and knowledge of gardening is why we think that Carol Henry is a true STAR!

Carol has been a tireless advocate and passionate volunteer for our students for many years, sharing her love of gardening and her boundless generosity with our entire school community.

Through her work with the Oak Harbor Garden Club, Carol has spent countless hours rounding up donations — and often reaching into her own pocket — to ensure our students have the supplies they need for meaningful, hands-on gardening lessons. Her creativity and dedication shine through in every lesson she develops, making gardening accessible, engaging, and exciting for every child, regardless of their ability level. Carol is a master at highlighting each student’s unique strengths and showing them how they can find success and joy in the garden.

Carol's contributions extend far beyond the traditional school day and calendar. Throughout the year, in all seasons, she continues to nurture our garden spaces and support our students’ learning experiences, even though the program receives no direct funding from the district. Thanks to her devotion, students eagerly anticipate their gardening club days, where they not only learn valuable skills but also build confidence, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for nature.

Carol Henry exemplifies the very spirit of service and community we seek to honor with this award. Her kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all she serves.

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Dione is a cornerstone of our Life Skills classroom. Her exceptional problem-solving abilities and collaborative spirit consistently drive positive outcomes. Dione's objective perspective is a powerful asset. She forges strong connections with students, directly contributing to their growth and enriching our classroom. Dione's remarkable patience and calm demeanor, especially in escalated situations, make her a vital support. I rely heavily on her daily student feedback and insights into effective teaching and behavior management. Dione's dedication to inclusion is also monumental; her support in general education settings is key to our students' success.

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Always there to help.

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Jaime Thompson - School Liaison Officer 

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Jaime Thompson - School Liaison Officer 

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Our connection with the Military is so much stronger because of Jaime, she's always available to answer questions. Her presence is CHE is great, she always turns up with a smile, and helps me out getting military volunteers for our school events.

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Akane is part of our school she is there when we need her. She has great relationships with your kids.

Akane is always willing to help out with a smile on her face and makes the kids & teachers have a seamless day which isn’t always easy with a substitute but she excels & we are lucky to have her!

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Sarah Newsome started subbing in my classroom for my bereavement leave after my dad's passing. My class has been a challenge this year. I found myself torn between not wanting to put that challenge on a substitute and needing to take the leave for my grief. Instead of taking the leave all at once, I took it a little at a time. Subs were surprised by the challenge.
Sarah said, "I've got experience."
The first time, she summed up each of my students with challenges on a sticky note. One name just said - Woah!
She subbed for me when I had a tooth removed recovering from oral surgery before winter break.
She did arts and crafts and a Christmas party. She created a slideshow that I adapted and still use for my small group time.
She subbed for me around Valentine's day and hosted the party then too.
She always completed the main academic content I left and managed to squeeze in a bit of fun too. She is great. I've come to rely on her and always check with her before making any doctor's appointments.

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Heather has been a valued part of CHE for many year as our office assistant. She recently completed her teaching degree in elementary education and special education. She seamlessly stepped into a long-term sub position. She immediately worked hard to establish relationships with her students. She invested time before and after school to ensure she was meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of her students. She thoughtfully examined IEP's to ensure student goals were being worked toward and attained. Heather collaborated with fellow teachers and admin and was not afraid to reach out to other staff members for resources or advice. She also worked hard to make the paras in her classroom feel valued and appreciated. Heather is an outstanding example of the excellence we desire in Oak Harbor.

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I would like to nominate Amy Kenley for her outstanding work as a kindergarten teacher at Olympic View Elementary. Amy is newer to our district and has demonstrated both eagerness and high expectations for herself in creating a classroom where every student can learn, grow, and feel safe. She has made remarkable progress in supporting students through proactive classroom management strategies that balance structure with empathy—serving as a model for other classrooms. Amy’s dedication to professional growth has significantly enriched the learning experience in her classroom. Her warmth, work ethic, and student-centered approach make her a true asset to our school and a shining example of our OHPS Core Values.

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Kara is constantly stepping up for fellow staff members and students. She engages students academically and keeps up a kind and supportive attitude all the time. She also is always a beacon of information for myself to become a better educator everyday!

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Kerri Totten is a great addition to our BVE family. For our SOAR reading program, she went above and beyond to help me learn and transition to the Read Naturally resource we use in our small groups. I asked her if she could help me better understand how to facilitate the learning, and she met with me after school one day to guide me through the process. Kerri even prepared folders for each of my students, with the copies needed to start for the first couple of weeks. Thank you, Kerri, for all you do!

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Mr. Rusch is always willing to jump in and help not just students but co-workers, I have seen other teachers come to him to ask advice on a student they are having a hard time getting through to. If a student is having a bad day he is always calm and tries to get the student to look in word to find out what is at the core of them having a hard time. any time one of the paras that work with him have finished working with a student that was having a behavior he always checks in with them to see if they need/want to take a break so they can reset before helping students again. Rusch is an overall great teacher/ coworker/ person, I feel very lucky to get to work with him.

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Our school custodian, Mark Duenas, truly deserves an award for collaboration and community-building. Every day, they go far beyond their job description, working alongside staff and students with kindness, patience, and a genuine desire to help. Whether it's offering a friendly greeting, stepping in to lend a hand, or creating a clean, welcoming environment, they consistently make everyone feel seen and valued. Through small acts of care and big gestures of support, they build strong relationships and foster a sense of belonging that makes our school feel like a second home for all.

Always helpful with tasks outside of his regular job description, Collaborates with other staff, provides excellent support to students. Always positive and helpful.

He is always there to help. He is reliable, kind, and always up beat. You can tell he cares about the state of the school and wants students to take PRIDE in being members of NWMS.

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Colin and Erin lead our PTA this year as president and VP. They have gone, and continue to go, above and beyond to make our staff feel valued and appreciated. They take their (volunteer!) positions very seriously and we are so fortunate to have them!

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Hailey is an impeccable educator who is dedicated to improving her practice for the benefit of her students. She is consistently finding new and creative ways to meet the needs of her students, and often works many hours outside of her contract time to accomplish this. One of her most significant accomplishments this year is the way she has fine-tuned the iReady math curriculum for the benefit of our entire second grade team. Her students (and her team!) are lucky to have her!

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I would like to nominate Dogs on Call for Community Partner of the Year. Their monthly visits to our school provide students, especially those with disabilities or regulation needs, an opportunity for meaningful connection, emotional support, and sensory regulation through their gentle, highly trained service dogs. Their presence fosters a sense of calm, builds trusting relationships, and supports the well-being of our entire school community. Dogs on Call is a beautiful example of community partnership, helping us ensure that every student has what they need to thrive.

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Julie works all over our school! Weekly you can find her in the art room and the library to support all students creative pursuits and curiosities. She is patient beyond measure and always eager to push our students to think critically or explore a new idea. She also supports nearly every PTA event and school sponsored events like picture day. She has built relationships with all of our students and staff. Julie can be found at each High Five Friday as Pikachu to encourage students attendance and excitement at school. She is always looking at the positive and for ways to make our school a happier place for everyone. She is also the leader of our BoxTop program to support students extracurricular needs.

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Madison cares for each student individually and finds great value in each kiddo's personality and ability to learn. She is absolutely dedicated to teaching and loving the students in her classroom. Her lessons stimulate the imaginations and desire to learn in her students. She is kind and supportive of her colleagues. Madison rarely needs to be absent, but when she is, she leaves organized, easy to follow and practical notes and lesson plans for her substitute teachers. She wonderfully friendly and welcoming to visitors to her classroom.

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It is with great admiration and deep appreciation that I nominate Charlene Milliron for recognition as an exceptional educator within our district. Charlene is more than just a teacher, she is a tireless advocate, a compassionate guide, and a true partner to her students, their families, and the entire community.

Charlene has an extraordinary gift for building meaningful relationships, particularly with children who have autism and learning disabilities. She has an innate ability to recognize the unique qualities and needs of each student, often noticing the things others may overlook. Her insight allows her to connect with students on a personal level, helping them feel seen, understood, and valued.

Her approach to inclusion is exemplary. Charlene meets each student where they are, tailoring her strategies to support individual needs while celebrating their strengths. She helps students discover what they are good at and uses those talents as a foundation for success. Through her work, students gain confidence, develop skills, and truly thrive.

What sets Charlene apart is not only her commitment to her students, but also her dedication to the families who support them. She collaborates seamlessly with parents, doctors, therapists, and community resources, creating a support system that empowers families to navigate challenges and grow stronger together. Her guidance has been life changing for many families during some of their most difficult times.

Charlene embodies love, structure, and acceptance in everything she does. She creates a classroom environment that is inclusive, safe, and empowering for all. The students in her care are not only educated they are deeply cared for, supported, and believed in.

Our district is incredibly fortunate to have Charlene Milliron. Her heart, her advocacy, and her unwavering dedication make her a true gem in our educational community. She deserves to be celebrated for the remarkable difference she makes every single day.

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Susan Briddell is the example of all OHSDs values and vision of #Oneoakharbor. She believes that all students have the ability to learn in a safe and inclusive environment. Susan is the first one to offer her time and expertise to support other staff members in their reading and math instruction. Although she is retiring, she will forever leave a lasting impression with her colleagues and students. Oak Harbor School District is so blessed to have had Susan for as long as we have.

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She recognized a need in our school in a small group of students who were showing up to school without their hair brushed, or their teeth brushed. She created a small group to help teach and provide self care to these students. She collaborated with staff to raise funds to purchase grooming products. She met with the students and taught how to brush their teeth, and their hair. We groomed several students before they got to class each morning, raising their self esteem and boosting their confidence. These students BEAMED with pride after leaving our office in the mornings.

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It is with great pride that I nominate Sarah Child for the Academic Excellence Award. As a general education teacher, Sarah consistently embodies what it means to challenge every learner through high-quality, rigorous, and student-centered instruction. She holds herself and her students to high expectations, and the results speak for themselves—students thrive in her classroom, both academically and personally.

I had the privilege of working alongside Sarah during my student teaching experience, and it was immediately clear that she is a master of her craft. She designs engaging lessons that meet students where they are, while strategically pushing them toward deeper understanding and greater independence. Her classroom is a place of focus, curiosity, and meaningful learning.

Sarah’s impact goes far beyond her lesson plans. She fosters a culture of accountability and respect, where students know they are capable of excellence and are supported in reaching it. She models professionalism, reflective practice, and a true commitment to student growth—for her students and for fellow educators. As my mentor, she encouraged me to stretch myself and grow, just as she does every day for her students.

Sarah Child is the definition of academic excellence, and I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of this award.

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It is with deep gratitude and admiration that I nominate Sierra Southwick for Substitute of the Year. Stepping into any classroom mid-year can be a challenge—but stepping into a CHOICES classroom, with students who require significant behavioral and academic support, is another level entirely. Sierra did so with grace, professionalism, and a heart full of compassion.

My class is not easy. It requires patience, structure, creativity, and the ability to build trust quickly with students who often struggle to feel safe and understood in a school setting. Sierra not only met those demands—she exceeded them. She formed meaningful relationships with each student, maintained the integrity of their IEP goals and accommodations, and created a safe, consistent learning environment where students could thrive.

Sierra demonstrated an incredible ability to learn quickly, adapt to challenges on the fly, and collaborate seamlessly with paras, service providers, and administration. Her commitment to maintaining routines and expectations while adding her own warmth and positivity has made a lasting impact on both students and staff.

I could not have asked for a better person to step in during my leave. Sierra Southwick is more than just a substitute—she is an exceptional educator, and she has more than earned this recognition.

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I have known Alice here in OHSD for over 20 years and I feel she is the best candidate for this recognition! I have seen her excellence with regard to inclusion, collaboration and academic excellence!

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I nominate Karrie sanders she has always gone above and beyond for her students she includes them all in every aspect of daily life skills she is such an amazing person and absolutely wonderful teacher.

Karrie is an outstanding individual who welcomes students into her community with open arms - no matter the challenges they face. Karrie advocates for what she believes in with kindness, and her authentic personality and optimism is contagious. She is supportive to all who are apart of our C-Wing hallway, and builds meaningful relationships with intentionality.

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Samm has worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the inclusion model at OHI. In order to bring about the huge changes that have happened, she has consistently collaborated with her 6th grade team, as well as the group as a whole, helped create access points in the curriculum for students, facilitated creative and effective ways to serve student's social emotional needs, and helped staff understand changes and identify needs. She is always ready to problem solve, always thinking outside the box and always believes in the work she is doing for inclusion. Her positive energy spurs others in this work and makes all things possible.

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Dr. Amy Garrett has volunteered a significant amount of her time to the Oak Harbors public school demonstrating a genuine commitment to serving students and families. As a valuable member of the Community Engagement Board for 3.5 years, Dr. Garrett has consistently shown willingness to take time from her busy schedule to care for our students and families, a quality rarely seen in someone in her position. A noteworthy example, we had a high school truant student who constantly complained about not coming to school due to their anxiety/pain and couldn't get proper help because they had no health insurance. When Dr. Garrett was made aware of the situation she immediately took action and reached out to the family, per permission that was granted by the family, to start the process and to add them on her schedule. I have seen Dr. Garrett advocate for students and families in receiving proper treatment and care from both community and school resources. She's consistently seeks ways to support students and families. Dr. Garrett embodies the spirit of One Oak Harbor and is a valuable asset to both the CEB and the entire district, making her a well-deserved recipient of this award and more. What makes it even better she does it with joy! SHE'S AMAZING!

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Jack was willing to be the chairperson for the Citizens for Better Schools Levy election committee. Jack worked tirelessly to make the campaign and committee a success. He set audacious goals to get over 60% and the goal was achieved. He organized the team, stepped in when there wasn't someone available, attended almost every event in which OHPS spoke about the levy, and both placed yard signs and picked up yard signs all over town. He was tireless in his efforts and rallied the troops for the benefit of our students. He is a great advocate for OHPS.

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Ms Seaman is the an exceptional person. Her leadership at HCE beyond impressive. My experience with her over the past eight years has been positive. As a parent, a substitute, and volunteer, she always makes me feel welcome and does so for all students and families. At HCE, the culture she has helped create is like a big family. Kids WANT to be there! They feel safe & valued. Students belong. She is involved and engaged with students, staff and families along every step of learning. The social-emotional health and academic success of students is strong at HCE. Students look forward to seeing her; she gets to know them. On a personal note, twice we had to decide whether to change schools for the hi-cap program and both times the decision to stay at Hillcrest was made because we didn't want to leave her and the safe, comfortable, supportive environment she helped create as principal.
She is so supportive of the pta and actively participates in our events & activities, even wearing costumes, creating epic slime battles and encouraging coop trading at recess (and so much more). She is a great partner. She is approachable and makes time to meet the needs of everyone in a no nonsense way. She puts students first! She listens. Students have a voice and she helps them feel important and capable. We see growth in our students because she includes everyone in the process and values input. HCE also has chickens, dogs and thriving gardens!
I have never heard anything but positive things about Ms Seaman. She is amazing and I just do not have the words to explain how she deserves to be recognized for all of her awesomeness and the STAR that she is... even though she does not like the spotlight, she shines the brightest!! Thank you!

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Ms. Wood has shown exceptional leadership over many years but was willing to take on a new way to look at inclusionary practices for her students in Special Education. Through her work with staff they have been able to provide support to her students, increase student inclusion and increase student performance for all of the intermediate students. This year for the first time OHI has produced student reading scores in both 5th and 6th grade show both high growth and high performance. This is a direct result of the schools collaborative work together with Ms. Wood and their willingness to make both technical and adaptive changes in their school structure to better serve their students. This was done through the school's trust in Ms. Wood and her vision for change.

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Trina isn't new to the school distract but she is new to her position here at Crescent Harbor Elementary. Trina has jumped right in to be the Principal Secretary with a smile on her face and learning everything she needs to know about her job to make sure she does her job. Trina is always bring laughter to the office and making work fun. And enjoyable environment to be in. I have worked as a para, but this year I'm new to office working as the front office assistant. Every time I have a question she has always helped me by showing me how to run a report or fix something on the computer. Every time she has helped me she never makes me feel dumb or stupid for asking the question that might be silly. But I want to do this job right. Trina is very approachable, very friendly and always has a smile on her face!!! One day I hope to have as mush knowledge on Skyward has her! Thank you.

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Deaven is a push-in para for my first grade class. Not only has she connected with each of the students she works with on a personal level (she knows them not just as students, but as the wonderful humans they are), but she has also made connections with my entire class. She is a part of our learning community and is a safe adult for ALL of my first-graders to go to. In terms of collaboration, Deaven work tirelessly with me and other members of our team to ensure that she is providing the best possible support for each student she works with. We are constantly trouble-shooting, coming up with more effective strategies, and making adjustments to ensure that we have the most positive impact possible together as a team. She goes above and beyond to do her job to the maximum capacity...and she does it all with a smile on her face and an energy and excitement for her job that is rare and should be celebrated. We are all grateful to work with Deaven at Hillcrest!

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Joyce is proactive and takes initiative in every aspect of her role as a nurse. She is a passionate advocate for our students, particularly those with more complex medical needs. Her dedication to advocating for families ensures that their concerns are heard and addressed, and her knowledge allows her to provide the best possible care for every student.

One of Joyce’s standout qualities is her exceptional ability to work with our Life Skills students. She fosters an environment where students with diverse needs can thrive, and she collaborates effectively with staff to ensure that the unique needs of this population are met. Joyce’s patience, understanding, and adaptability make her a critical part of our team, and her support is invaluable.

Joyce's expertise in diabetic care is nothing short of exceptional. She stays current with the latest diabetic technologies and trends, ensuring that our students receive the most up-to-date care. Joyce’s understanding of the specific needs of diabetic students, coupled with her ability to respond quickly and effectively to changes in their condition, makes her an essential asset to our team.

Joyce’s fluency in Spanish is an invaluable asset, especially in supporting our Spanish-speaking families. She bridges communication gaps and provides essential care and information in a language they understand, ensuring they feel heard and supported in their children’s healthcare needs.

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I am honored to nominate Elizabeth Ritz for the Star of the Year Award.
Liz's leadership, innovation, and unwavering dedication to student success have had a profound impact on our educators and learners alike.
Her ability to inspire teachers, implement data-driven improvements, and champion student centered learning not only transforms classrooms but also cultivates a culture of growth, equity, and excellence that empowers both educators and students to thrive.
Through her tireless dedication and compassionate leadership, she truly embodies the values of inclusion, belonging, and student centered education, making an immeasurable difference in our district.

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I enthusiastically recommend Adrienne Guy for consideration for your Star Award. I have had the privilege of working with Adrienne for the past several years as a fellow school nurse at Oak Harbor Public Schools, where I have been employed since 2004. During this time, I have witnessed Adrienne’s exemplary skills, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our students.
Adrienne is an exceptional school nurse who has worked across all grade levels in our district, from preschool to high school. In every school setting, she has demonstrated a dynamic connection with students, fostering a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, cared for, and understood. Whether dealing with an injury, illness, or health concern, Adrienne approaches each situation with a calm, kind, and accommodating demeanor. Her ability to assess a student’s needs and respond with the appropriate care is truly remarkable.
Her medical knowledge is both extensive and up-to-date, and she adheres closely to district guidelines as well as those from the health department and OSPI. Adrienne’s excellent assessment skills, clear communication, and willingness to seek guidance when needed, make her a valuable asset to our team. She is highly dependable and flexible, always stepping in wherever needed, and has consistently been a "utility player" in our department.
Beyond her technical skills, Adrienne’s positive attitude and caring nature bring joy and a sense of calm to every situation. She embodies the spirit of community, collaboration, and kindness in her work, making her an indispensable member of our team.
I am confident that Adrienne will continue to excel and make an impact in all her future endeavors. It is without hesitation that I recommend her for this award. She is a dedicated, compassionate, and a highly capable nurse.

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Christy collaborates with our community partners on our local scholarships. She collaborates with our senior families in getting our 5th year students to graduate. She collaborates with our staff to put on programs such as AP testing and College in the High School with CWU. She collaborates with our college partners in putting on events such as our Focus on the Future Night and Ignite Women in Stem, and hosts guest speakers and field trips to college campuses, apprenticeship sites, and businesses. She is invaluable to our OHHS Team!