CH-UH Recognizes Tiger Team Members of the Month for September
The theme across the CH-UH School District this year is Heights United. In that spirit, each month CH-UH is recognizing employees who go above and beyond to inspire unity and create a culture of excellence in our district.
For September, CH-UH is honoring 11 people as the “Tiger Team Members of the Month”. Each honoree was nominated by a colleague--and in some instances multiple colleagues--and the nominees were then voted upon by a staff committee.
The honorees will be recognized by the Board of Education at the October 7 meeting.
Baumgardner: Mikia Searcy - English Language Arts Teacher
"Mikia is organized, hard-working, and dedicated to her work in this district. She has helped my transition into a new role so much easier, and there has never been a time that she hasn't answered my calls, texts or emails. Whether it is navigating a new program, or troubleshooting an issue, Mikia remains patient and focused. I am so grateful for her professionalism and friendship."
BOE/Bus Depot/Delisle Options Center/IT/Millikin: Erin Hanna - Coordinator of Student Services
"Erin has taken on the elementary level of student services this school year and has already demonstrated an exceptional level of support, presence, and understanding towards the students and staff. Erin is always approachable and genuinely listens to concerns, offering guidance and encouragement in a way that makes every individual feel valued and heard. Her consistent presence provides a dependable source of comfort and reassurance to the educators she interacts with and the students in their care. Moreover, Erin approaches every situation with empathy and patience, ensuring that families and staff receive not just practical assistance but also emotional support tailored to their unique circumstances."
Boulevard: Kristy Minnillo - Second Grade Teacher
"Kristy has been the epitome of a great team player. She has gone above and beyond to make teachers feel welcome, taking the time to provide help, patiently answering questions, and offering guidance that is invaluable to building a positive culture. Her willingness to share her expertise and provide support without being asked has had a significant positive impact. She embodies the spirit of our tiger team."
Canterbury: Patrick Dooner - Staff Assistant (Attendance)
"Patrick is doing an outstanding job in his new role as our attendance staff assistant. From the very start, Patrick has approached his position with attentiveness and thoroughness, ensuring that every detail is handled with care. He is always willing to step in and help wherever needed and is quick to offer support when challenges arise. Patrick’s availability, problem-solving skills, and willingness to assist in any way make him an invaluable part of our team. We are so grateful for his dedication and the positive impact he continues to make each day."
Fairfax: Connie Meier - ALC Ancillary
"Connie has shown incredible support in helping manage student behaviors. She consistently steps in even when challenges arise, and provides guidance when it’s needed most. She is always willing to lend a hand wherever needed—whether it’s providing classroom coverage, monitoring in the cafeteria, supporting at recess, or taking on other responsibilities to help our school run smoothly. Her dedication to our students and staff truly makes a difference, and we are grateful for all she does."
Gearity: Gretchen Grabowski - Fourth Grade Teacher
"Gretchen has been an amazing teammate for years. She is dependable, supportive, organized, creative and hard-working. This year, as we've transitioned out of departmentalization, I am even more aware of what an outstanding reading teacher she is as well. Gretchen plans rigorous, thoughtful reading and writing lessons which are aligned to state standards. Her lessons are meaningful and support science and social studies curriculums. I am so thankful to have her as a teaching partner!"
Heights High: Kathleen Scully - EL Teacher
"Ms. Scully consistently goes above and beyond her classroom responsibilities to create meaningful opportunities that empower our English Learner students to discover their strengths and reach their full potential. Through innovative programs such as a Poetry Creation and Read-Aloud Contest, she provides students with a creative outlet to express their voices, build confidence, and develop essential communication skills. In addition, her leadership in launching the Senior Peer Language Mentors initiative demonstrates her commitment to fostering mentorship, community, and long-term growth for our EL students. Ms. Scully’s unwavering support, thoughtful programming, and student-centered approach make her an outstanding role model and a true asset to our Tiger Team."
Noble: Dymin Harris - Special Education Paraprofessional (Preschool)
"Ms. Dymin is so great with our youngest learners. I see her every day, engaged with her students as they come into the building in the mornings. She also greets other students as well as hers. I often see her playing with her students on the playground and the students always seem so happy."
Oxford: Rebecca McCalligan - Intervention Specialist
"Ms. McCalligan goes above and beyond here at Oxford. She will help out whenever and wherever she can. She has been a big support in helping out students and also teachers. She can make anyone laugh and always has a warm and welcoming smile."
Rox El: Brandon Copeland - Cleaner/Lunch Non-paraprofessional
Mr. Copeland is a positive individual who works both with students and in the maintenance department. He always brings a positive attitude with the children and his work. His energy helps the students do their best and makes them excited to learn."
Rox Mid: Jennifer Parks - Seventh Grade Math Teacher
"Drawing on her years of experience as an AVID Tutor and her time as a long-term substitute last year, Jen continues to support students, staff, and families with dedication and heart. Jen balances her many roles of teacher, mother, and PTA president with poise, professionalism, and an abundance of love, making her a true asset to our school community."