Feb. 23, 2024 -- The theme across the CH-UH School District this year is Believe. In that spirit, each month CH-UH is recognizing employees who go above and beyond to inspire one another to "believe" and create a culture of excellence in our district.
For February, CH-UH is honoring 12 people/groups 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 at the Board of Education regular meeting on Thursday, March 7.
BOE/Bus Depot/Millikin: Payroll Team (Carmen Jefferson, Angela Kennedy, Arlene Mohammadpour, Lindsay Smith)
The District Payroll team in the Finance Department does whatever it takes to make sure everyone in the District is paid every two weeks - along with all of the other things (taxes, deductions, retirement, benefits...) that come along with that. In December, they worked on the snow day to get out the 12/1 pay, worked over the weekend amid network issues to get out the 12/15 pay, and worked over winter break to get out the 12/29 pay. They never have to be asked - they know what needs to be done and they take the initiative to do it. People are quick to fuss if something is wrong with their paychecks, but it's not often this hard-working group is appreciated for everything that goes right regularly for the 1,000 employees of our District.
Boulevard: Lauren Eaton
Lauren is one of Boulevard's outstanding and much respected 1st grade teachers, who brings much enthusiasm for learning into her classroom! Lauren is truly focused on creating lessons that highly engage students in quality learning. Student behavior is always in control. Lauren is always approachable with genuine kindness and respect for both students and staff.
Canterbury: Jason Franklin
He goes above and beyond. Since I've been at Canterbury, I have observed that he is always looking to improve his building.
Delisle/TVA/IT: Paul Gustafson
Mr. Gustafson is a vital member of the Tiger Virtual Academy and Delisle Center staffs. He is the ultimate team player, always willing to assist with any project, class, or situation. He works well with students at any grade level. He is creative and skilled with technology. As a parent of Heights graduates and a member of the Heights community, he is a true supporter of Tiger Nation. We are fortunate to have such a friendly, patient, and committed colleague in our building.
Fairfax: Cynthia Foster
Ms. Foster is an amazing paraprofessional that goes above and beyond for all students. From her efficiency in the cafeteria in the mornings, to building long-lasting, meaningful relationships with students, to collaborating with other educators to best meet the students' needs, to sharing positive words of wisdom, to her calm demeanor... Ms. Foster is a key asset to the building and deserves to be recognized for her hard work, care and compassion for our students.
Gearity: Caren Golenberg
Caren is such a great reading teacher and always puts her students first. She has implemented the Wonders + 95% Curriculum with intention. She is an oracle of knowledge at our weekly TBTs. She created a goal setting model for words per minute that other grade levels at Gearity have implemented. I couldn't ask for a better teammate.
Heights High: Jim Miller
Jim organized a trip for AP Biology & AP Environmental science students. He organized everything to make the experience seamless for students & parents. Jim even ensured students would have surprises & treats along the way in Belize. His dedication to his students and his passion for science are inspiring.
Monticello: Jeannise Andres
Ms. Andres is always encouraging students to be their best selves. She is a great advocate for PBIS and shows great leadership throughout the building. She runs the clock at all of Monticello’s home games. She also teaches students about journalism as well as poetry after school, and her students love her so much. Ms. Andres is an irreplaceable part of our Monticello family.
Noble: Patrick Carpenter
Patrick is a positive leader for staff and students. He shares his passion, vision, compassion and humor each day. He is there for his students and their families as well as the staff (both professionally and personally). He BELIEVES! We are so happy you are our instructional leader!
Oxford: Andrew Kosinski
Coach K is dedicated, hardworking and organized with the activities he prepares for the students. Some students are not comfortable with certain gym activities, and Coach K is creative with redesigning ways for them to participate and have fun. He inspires students to love the challenge of competition and to be team players. I love his energy, focus, leadership, patience, and teaching ability. A great asset for the Oxford Tiger Team.
Rox El: Charles Smith
Mr. Smith is the Rox El head custodian and does everything possible for our staff and students to have a great school day. His commitment to creating a clean and safe place for the students doesn't go unnoticed. He has gone above and beyond to make sure that our school sparkles, and is a welcoming, healthy space for everyone. His favorite expression is "I got you" and he really does! We are lucky to have him as our custodian!
Rox Mid: Katie Spilker
In my career, I had never experienced working with a true co-teacher - until I started working directly with Katie Spilker. If anyone enters our classroom, it would be impossible to tell who is the gen ed teacher and who is the intervention specialist. It is so refreshing to be able to work with someone who appreciates differing points of view, is creative, and willing to help in any way.
Read about our previous honorees
here.