May 2023
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Keisha Cox
Keisha has consistently done an outstanding job in her role as AP Administrative Assistant in the Finance Department. She portrays a positive outlook toward both the work she does, as well as the people she interacts with. Her diligence results in her being a trusted and valued employee. In addition, Keisha has stepped up and taken on the excess AP workload as the Finance Department transitions to fill the vacant AP Administrative Assistant role. She clearly demonstrates a willingness to go above and beyond to support the finance team, and does so without ever complaining. Without a doubt, Keisha is a proven rock star and her efforts and contributions inspire me to "Believe"!
Boulevard - Chandre Ford
Chandre has a beautiful spirit, an excellent work ethic, and goes above and beyond her job duties. She is always willing to fill in where needed. She is a great asset to our district.
Canterbury - Sharon Thomas
Ms. Thomas is an amazing person and amazing staff member. She is the attendance secretary in the building but you wouldn't believe the things she does for the children. She always has snacks for children that forget or do not have a snack at home to bring. Every year she has her kids that she really pays attention to by giving them little inspiring gifts to help them cope when they are having a difficult day. She helps me tremendously in the office, doing tasks that are normally not in her job description, as well as helping the entire staff. Ms. Thomas helps to make Canterbury run smoothly. She is the best!
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Val Sanders
Val is a very caring person. She goes over and beyond her duties every single day. She is the go-to person in the building if you have a problem; she is very helpful to staff and students.
Fairfax - Mindy Hamilton
Ms. Hamilton works to build positive relationships with her students and families daily. She shows flexibility and professionalism even in very challenging situations. Additionally, she provides support when needed in other areas of the building. Her class was also awarded an IB mini grant, which they have used to raise donations for local animal shelters.
Gearity - Kathryn Rohrbaugh
Katie is the intervention specialist in the intensive needs preschool classroom. Katie is always cheerful, enthusiastic and welcoming. This encourages her students to engage more in their tasks. I have heard parents comment on how this helps their children to relate to others. Katie will reschedule meetings if the parents need to cancel so that they have the opportunity to talk with her, not only about how their child is doing but for strategies at home. She is a true asset to our preschool program.
Heights High - Michael Thomas
Mr. Thomas is passionate about every detail of his work for students. He treats each student, and the work associated with them, as the most important task in the world. He cares deeply about colleagues and has been an invaluable godsend for myself transitioning back into the classroom. His sense of personal pride and excellence when it comes to his work is monumental. He gives so much more than he takes each day.
Monticello - John Callahan
I believe Mr. Callahan should be selected for tiger team member of the month because of his drive, patience, kindness and willingness he shows working with our special needs children. He encourages and reminds our staff constantly of their growing abilities. He invited a few teachers and staff in for his class's presentation and I guarantee that it would've warmed the coldest heart. Callahan is very supportive and understanding. I have witnessed him giving advice to others, I have also been on the receiving end of his "talks". I am grateful to call Mr. Callahan My friend. I am proud to call him my colleague.
Noble - Nicole Nalepa
Nicole is such a hardworking, dedicated member of the Noble staff. She establishes great relationships with students, families, and staff. In addition, she uses research-based instructional techniques to help her students grow. Her great sense of humor and funny antics bring a smile to everyone's faces and improve building morale.
Oxford - Maggie Lombardi
Maggie is new to the district. She has worked closely with the staff at Oxford to improve her practice and get used to her new role. Maggie has worked hard to lead her team as the BLT lead for fourth grade. Her work with data is making a great impact on the team's understanding of instruction. Maggie has done a great job of making connections with her students and her families. She is a great addition to the Oxford staff.
Rox El - Val Arnett
Val is a fourth grade teacher here at Rox El. We all appreciate Val's creativity and ability to work with all different kinds of students. It has been wonderful to work with Val over the past several years.
Rox Mid - Amanda Sell
Amanda has been a team player since day 1. We have been working on the same ELA team together for almost 10 years. Amanda is prepared, organized and caring. There has never been a day where I have not felt supported by my colleague, who, in turn, has become a friend. She is a valuable asset to CH-UH.
April 2023
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Doris (Dottie) Mapson
Dottie helped our track team place at the State Championship meet by doing some serious work for us in making sure that our athletes could be bused from the middle schools to our high school to practice, and for our high school athletes to be bused to the Wiley campus for practice. Being able to physically go to these locations and practice undoubtedly helped our team in the championship season. She is incredible and really wants to work for our kids. We view her as a member of our track team!
Boulevard - Cynthia Douglas
Cynthia gives her all to redirect students on the right path by using her integrity and compassion for all students and staff. She has innovative ideas and helps throughout the entire building.
Canterbury - Karen Altchouler
Karen is our lead Academic Success Tutor. She helps other tutors with analyzing data and scheduling time with students. This is on top of the great work she does with kids; they love their time with her!
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Dr. Brian Williams
Dr. Williams consistently looks out for the best interests of his students. In the years that I've spent at Delisle, I've come to respect Dr. WIlliams on the highest possible level. While we may have established steps and procedures, Dr. Williams isn't afraid to say "I need 'this' or 'that' for my students," and I appreciate that quality.
Fairfax - Regina Lacey
I appreciate Regina because of her positive attitude. She always has a smile on her face, even when things get hectic. She is very pleasant and helpful to the students and staff.
Gearity - Reeva Perse
Mrs. Perse is a dedicated educational professional who will be retiring at the end of the current school year. I have had the pleasure of watching her work with her preschool students for four years and have always been impressed by her patience and strong relationships. She is always prepared for her work as she pushes in with services in seven preschool classrooms. Mrs. Perse is willing to consult with her colleagues to ensure that their students build skills throughout the school day.
Heights High - Tandra Menefee
Tandra has demonstrated excellent leadership from the Guidance Department. She has always been accessible, genuine and empathetic to our students and parents. As the Lead this year, she has been consistent in her communication to all stakeholders, she has maintained and presented relevant data, she has created schedules for testing, and she has helped students navigate a range of challenges and experiences.
Monticello - Crystal Kerr
Crystal should be recognized because she is a talented, hardworking educator. Although new to the District, she is not new to teaching and I have learned so much from her already. She has an amazing rapport with the students and gets along great with the staff. She always has a smile on her face and finds something positive to say each day.
Noble - Carla Campbell
Mrs. Campbell is always bringing the sunshine. She is a welcoming face in the morning and is always willing to help in any way she can. She greets everyone with a warm smile and kindness. Our building is super lucky to have her here.
Oxford - Timothy McDonald
Mr. McDonald is always bright and cheerful when he is working with his small groups. Timothy is a Heights grad and it has been so helpful having him around the building. He is always lending a helpful hand to any staff member or student in need! We are so happy to have him as part of our Oxford team.
Rox El - Monica Rogers
Monica always seeks out effective strategies to support her young learners. She collaborates with different grade level colleagues to improve her practice, vertically align instruction, and strive for excellence. Monica leads by example and creates a positive, nurturing classroom environment where her students have fun while learning. Rox El is blessed to have Monica Rogers!
Rox Mid - Nathan Pilarczyk
Nathan arrives to work early and ready to start the day on a positive note. Always friendly and willing to help staff where needed. Thinks of fun activities to engage his students and genuinely cares about them. He is dependable, reliable, and respectful to his colleagues and staff. You will see him with a smile while greeting anyone who crosses his path. March 2023
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Lisa Black
Lisa goes above and beyond for transportation, making sure trips are covered when the department is short-staffed. She works tirelessly to keep the transportation department moving.
Boulevard - Tamelita Williams-Harris
Mrs. Harris is the most wonderful staff member that I have ever worked with. She is very dependable, flexible and kind. She is dedicated to her kindergarten students and has no problem helping out in any position in the building where she is needed.
Canterbury - Roberta Warren
Roberta Warren is Canterbury's Security Monitor. She just returned and we are so happy to have her back, as she keeps Canterbury safe by continually checking doors, making sure visitors are checked in, and much more. We missed her during her absence.
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Kristie Cooper
Dr. Kristie Cooper goes over and beyond to give our students an authentic experience with a smile. She works diligently to make sure that students' needs are met by partnering with our Tiger Virtual Academy scholars and families to provide them with optimum support as if they were in the brick and mortar. She also joins our virtual attendance meetings and provides supports including graduation requirements, deadlines, and college and career readiness. Dr. Cooper embodies the district's vision and is a great asset to our Tiger community.
Fairfax - Annette Soucie
Ms. Soucie has gone above and beyond her responsibilities as our Fairfax Security Monitor. She has built positive relationships with our students who will now seek her out for a conversation or assistance with schoolwork. Annette also assists with arrival, lunch, and dismissal to ensure students are safe and have a positive adult role model. Additionally, she monitors the building daily for safety and offers a welcoming smile for any visitors.
Gearity - Michelle Cecconi
Michelle plays so much more than the role of school psychologist. She is always willing to lend a hand in any situation and builds strong relationships with both students and teachers. Michelle makes herself available to look over data with teachers to help them develop plans for their students. Gearity has found a gem in Michelle!
Heights High - Stephanie Buda
Stephanie is an asset to the high school science team and athletic team. She has increased enrollment for forensics science by providing students with engaging, thought provoking activities. In addition, Stephanie is spearheading the Science Symposium, coaching both indoor and outdoor track and still has time to help her colleagues. Heights High has won the lottery because we have her on staff.
Monticello - Qaaron Murdock
Ms. Murdock came to Monticello with a positive, caring, fun attitude! She has fit into the Monticello family greatly; it is a joy to work with her. Ms. Murdock is confident in her work and is a team player. Wherever and whenever she is needed, she is there; whether for students, parents or staff! I am thankful to call her a coworker and friend.
Noble - Alexia Boyles
Alexia is a true gift to the students of Noble Elementary. She is one of the most gifted teachers and keeps learning fun and engaging all while having a calm classroom environment. She is someone I can always count on for a smile and kind word. Noble students and staff are so lucky to have Alexia on our team!
Oxford - Anastasia Fiala
Miss Fiala works with students throughout the day, starting first thing in the morning when she welcomes them into the building. Miss Fiala is hosting a book club with our third grade students, and the students love their time with her. She is dedicated to fostering a love of reading in our students.
Rox El - Patricia Earley
Ms. Earley has worked hard to organize lunch and recess. She is always so calm and caring with our students and makes sure that she meets their needs. We have enjoyed having her work with our students in our classroom in addition to working with them at lunch. Our school is so lucky to have her as part of our team!
Rox Mid - Suzanne Nelson
Ms. Nelson has been a tremendous addition to our 6-8 Gifted Program at Roxboro Middle. In addition to being extremely supportive of our MSSP environment, Ms. Nelson is also in charge of the Power of the Pen club and the School Newspaper club called Inky Stripes. Ms. Nelson is very giving of herself and her time and has impacted a lot of students lives' in this school year.
February 2023
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Vivian Gatta
Vivian was truly amazing, helping out in anyway needed throughout the stressful two weeks the Heights Schools Foundation sold and distributed Kelce/Heights t-shirts. She answered many more calls in a typical day, handling questions with a smile. She helped to rectify any issues, always with a smile on her face. She showed her true Tiger spirit.
Boulevard - Kate Regas
Kate is friendly, kind, energetic, and wants to do everything she can to help her students succeed.
Canterbury - Melissa Garcar
Melissa serves as our building's tech coach and IB leader, and she also provides daily support to the teachers at Canterbury. Her wealth of knowledge, dedication, and positivity are simply extraordinary.
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Tony Slepko
Tony has worked diligently to make a smooth transition to our school district and lead the IT team over these last six months. He addresses technical concerns promptly, professionally, and thoughtfully.
Fairfax - Melissa Wymer & LaVerne Jones
Melissa and LaVerne are the first two people to greet you when entering Fairfax. These amazing ladies make sure everyone has what they need to have a productive day at work. Our power team deserves recognition for everything they do for us at Fairfax.
Gearity - Roberta (Bobbie) Blakeslee-Compton
Bobbie Compton should be recognized as a Tiger Team Member of the Month because she is such a great collaborator. This year we have the opportunity to co-teach, and she is always ready to share her opinion on lesson ideas. Bobbie is also very open to the idea of using different co-teaching models. I appreciate her friendly, collaborative nature and her flexibility with wanting to try out new ideas in the classroom.
Heights High - Mike Jones
As the Kelce brothers' former football coach, Mike took on the many, many news media requests for interviews and completed them all like a pro. He made our district shine on the national stage.
Monticello - Lakesha Taylor
Ms. T Is what the kids call her! She has created so many impactful relationships with the students here at Monti. I am proud to work beside such a dedicated person. Entering the building this year was an adjustment, but Ms. T has made a warm welcome for me. I have overheard conversations she's had with students, and I was taken aback by how she was able to connect with them.
Noble - Mariah Watts
Mariah is new to Noble this school year, but she has seamlessly joined our team. She always keeps a positive attitude and is able to recognize the strengths of each of her students. In addition, Mariah provides clear and consistent expectations for her students, setting them up for success. She partners with the parents of her students and other staff members.
Oxford - Mariah Lightfoot
Mariah Lightfoot is Oxford Elementary's building sub, AKA "Superwoman." Mariah is a super efficient substitute teacher for grades Pre-K through 5, but many days, she will cover as school secretary, paraprofessional and even lunch aide! She attacks each day with a smile and gets the job done! Oxford is certainly lucky to have a bright, shining star like Mariah in the building!
Rox El - Jennifer Thomas
Jennifer got a new student this week who is from Brazil and speaks Portuguese. Jen made index cards for herself and wears them around her neck to help communicate with the student. She has also encouraged her students to welcome the new classmate by using her language. Jen says that her students have been using Google Translate to find ways to communicate with their new friend. She inspires international-mindedness in her students and is a role model to educators in CH-UH and beyond!
Rox Mid - Keith Vance
Keith is an intervention specialist at Roxboro Middle School. He has a wonderful rapport with all students. Keith has a laid back personality which is VERY helpful in educating middle schoolers. Mr. Vance is always available for his students and they enjoy spending time with him. Keith expands his relationship with students by coaching both the girls and boys tennis teams at Roxboro.
January 2023
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Charlene Rice
Charlene is a wonderful person and trainer as I have been working with her for the past three months. She is very detailed, thorough, and overall a great person to work with. She goes above and beyond in anything she does and she also has been with the Board for 24 years. I appreciate her and all that she does!
Boulevard - LaShownda Horton
Ms. Horton arrives every day with a smile on her face bringing in warmth and positivity to our building. She works wonderfully with the many, many students that she supports at Boulevard. Her energy, positivity and passion for her students have been a positive and much appreciated light at Boulevard Elementary. Thank you Ms. Horton!
Canterbury - Maurice Lovett
Walking into Mr. Lovett's room is like walking into a model classroom. Every one of his students is engaged in the learning that is happening. Mr. Lovett has a knack for making all students feel accepted and supported emotionally and also in their learning. He is his students' advocate, cheerleader, and biggest supporter. He is an instructional rockstar and deserves more recognition than he is given. Mr. Lovett, you are an amazing educator! Thank you for your dedication to this craft!
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Jeronica Bell
Jeronica is dedicated and passionate about her work. As our Registrar Specialist, Jeronica makes excellent customer service a top priority, ensuring that our new families get the attention and care they deserve.
Fairfax - Regina Lacey
Nurse Regina is very pleasant and helpful to the students and staff. Her upbeat attitude lifts everyone's spirits and brightens any room she's in.
Gearity - Angela Hoang
Before I met Angela, I was told she was a hardworking and dedicated professional. For the last half of the school year, she has been my co-teacher. She has not only lived up to her reputation, but she has been eager to support me through challenges. However, I am not the only colleague she lends this support to, as she deeply cares for the Gearity School community and knows that supported teachers foster successful outcomes for students.
Heights High - Quata Tucker
Quata is a reliable and dedicated member of the high school team. She is invested in the outcomes of our students through her vocation training program, connecting students and families with county services, and cheering our students on to graduation.
Monticello - Deborah Richardson
Deborah should be recognized for always going above and beyond to keep our teachers, staff, and students safe. She has exemplified leadership by always taking initiative to do the unwanted or dreaded task. She even bakes cookies for kids who have improved their behavior. I am not only proud to work beside someone like Ms. Richardson, but I also feel 110% safer knowing that she is guarding our front and back doors!
Noble - Rosalind Jacobs
Rozz has been with Noble for years and it is so great to see her in preschool with her students! She has such a great relationship with each and every one of them and showers them with kindness everyday. She also does a great job of bringing the academics alive in her classroom. Having subbed for a nap time in her room this fall, I can say that Rozz Jacobs has the patience of a saint and amazing energy with her kiddos. Way to go, Rozz!
Oxford - Bridgette Bondarenko/Michelle Manolio/Michelle Bee (IS Team)
The IS team at Oxford - Bridgette Bondarenko, Michelle Manolio, and Michelle Bee - work tirelessly to gather and analyze data to identify student strengths and weaknesses. They use this data to create and teach small intervention groups in reading and math. The team supports the classroom teachers everyday in closing the learning gap. Their hard work is so appreciated! The students and teachers at Oxford are lucky to have such a dedicated team.
Rox El - Malik Daniels
A true leader, educator and professional. He knows the teaching standards inside and out. He's at work every morning, before everyone else and stays late, organizing and planning his craft. The children and families love him. He strives to be the best-ALWAYS!
Rox Mid - Rachel Kelly
This is Rachel's first year in CH-UH. She has been such a great addition to our staff. She is hardworking and dedicated to the success of our students. She is a true team player who is reliable. She brings a positive attitude and great ideas to the team!
December 2022
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Doris Mapson
Doris "Dottie" Mapson always puts the children first. By all means necessary, she transports our scholars from home to school, field trips, and sporting events. Dottie is always able to come up with a winning combination that works for everybody. Dottie is the spark that keeps transportation running.
Boulevard - Katherine Sferry
Katherine is a gem in this district. She is creative and thinks outside of the box; she does whatever is best for students at all times. Katherine makes learning fun by creating dance moves and gestures to help students remember math concepts. She is willing to share her wealth of knowledge and brings joy with conversations had with colleagues. She is one of the BEST teachers I have ever worked with.
Canterbury - Andrea Briggs
Andrea goes above for her students and outside the classroom, as she leads the social committee and is a member of the PBIS team as well. She is a selfless team player and we are lucky to have her at Canterbury!
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Nikia Cleveland
With a couple of IT staff members out temporarily, Nikia has been stepping up to meet the needs of the department. She is dedicated to providing high quality tech service to all of our schools and staff members.
Fairfax - Nikita Garcias
Nikita is a new team member here at Fairfax, and she has gone above and beyond the call of duty. She cares so much about her students, gets involved, shares her ideas and opinions, and overall, advocates for her students and staff with the District's values at her core.
Gearity - Betty Jenkins
Betty is our 2nd grade Academic Success Tutor. Betty is not only kind and hardworking, but she cares deeply for the needs of children and is eager to learn new strategies to ensure their academic success!
Heights High - Tiesha McEwen
Tiesha has been a great addition to the high school, and her efforts to help students prepare for college have been very noticeable. In December, Tiesha arranged the Instant College Acceptance Day with Cleveland State University where 29 students were accepted on the spot to CSU. She is a tremendous asset to the students and families she works with and the District is lucky to have such a great employee.
Monticello - Megan Osborne
Megan tirelessly advocates for all students at Monticello. In the toughest situations, Megan is there to support the students, their families and their teachers. She always has an upbeat attitude. A few students recently had an idea to make clothing and other items available to students at school, and Megan helped them make it happen. Although this is Megan’s first year at Monticello, it feels like she’s been there for years.
Noble - Debra Elwell
Deb is a top notch teacher. She is an endless planner, creating engaging, rigorous lessons. She is an amazing team leader and also serves on Noble's PBIS team. Her students' work is always shown outside of her classroom with tons of writing. You can see the progression from writing sample to writing sample. She has taught her students to be proactive and reflective. What an amazing second grade teacher!
Oxford - Lynne Gaines
Miss Gaines is such a great team player. She is willing to work with all staff and students. She is welcoming to all. Her positive attitude helps to create a climate of teamwork and collaboration at Oxford. Miss Gaines cares so much about her students. They all know she loves and cares for them.
Rox El - Gillian Cox
Gillian is always willing to step in and do whatever is needed to help out, whether it's in the classrooms, during lunchtime, or taking kids to where they need to go. She makes Rox El shine!
Rox Mid - Conny Meier
Conny is a team player - always willing to help support students and assist teachers. She follows through and makes us laugh with her sense of humor and story telling. Our team appreciates the work Conny puts in!
November 2022
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin - Carla Morris
Carla is always available, pleasant and helpful. Not only does she help the Human Resources team, she's a lifeline and support for many throughout the district. Her attitude and approach exhibits and promotes the district's goals. She's a great teacher that inspires her colleagues and encourages them to become their best self. I'd also like to highlight that she hasn't lost her stride even after recently giving birth. Carla, thanks for all you do and have done!
Boulevard - Karen Spinks
Spinks is truly the glue in Boulevard. She knows ALL families, understands the school business, helps with leadership club, and encourages all kids to be their best self. She does this while supporting the adults in the building. Earlier in the year the front office was short staffed; she picked up the torch and filled so many roles that we joke about all of her hats! We couldn't function without Spinks!
Canterbury - Carla Huter
Not only does Carla make learning fun for her 3rd graders, she makes coming to school fun for her colleagues! Once a week she becomes DJ CJ and plays NAME THAT TUNE over the PA (caller #5 into the office wins a prize).
Delisle Options Center/Tiger Virtual Academy/IT - Brian Buchanan
This is Mr. Buchanan's second year in the district as a TVA teacher and he is truly a team player. He is helpful, friendly and dedicated to staff and students, showing concern. We appreciate Mr. Buchanan.
Fairfax - Maggie Brooks
Ms. Brooks has taken the lead with the PBIS work at Fairfax. She has worked to create expectations posters for the building, align Conscious Discipline with PBIS, and assisted staff in implementing PBIS initiatives. Ms. Brooks is also working with staff members to analyze data and procedures to get consistency with PBIS across the building.
Gearity - Danita Smith
Replacing an icon like Mrs. Gray can be a challenge, but Mrs. Smith has done an excellent job of stepping into the new role of administrative assistant. Mrs. Smith works well with the staff and provides quality customer services to our parents. Most importantly, she has implemented lessons learned from her predecessor while making the position her own.
Heights High - Patricia Donovan-Huelsman
Tricia is a hard-working and supportive team member. She is organized, c