Sam Ubben, a Title I Teacher at Irving Dual Language Elementary School
"Miss Ubben is one of a kind. She is thoughtful, hardworking, self-starter, and goes above and beyond for the students, her team, and parents. Miss Ubben exemplifies the meaning of a teammate. Irving Dual Language Elementary, is grateful for Miss Ubben."
Tina Cobb, a Fifth-Grade Teacher at Sunnyside Elementary School
"Mrs. Cobb, our outstanding 5th-grade teacher, is a valued member of the BLT B Committee and an incredible asset to our school community. She helps lead the Connect Committee, where she helps celebrate staff members, build meaningful connections, and foster a positive school climate and culture. Her dedication to bringing staff together and making others feel appreciated contributes greatly to the sense of community within our building.
In the classroom, Mrs. Cobb builds positive relationships with her students and creates an environment where they are encouraged to make good choices and demonstrate positive behavior. She uses creative incentives to recognize and reward students, reinforcing positive habits and helping students feel motivated and successful. Her creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment to both student success and staff morale make her a wonderful role model and team member.
Mrs. Cobb exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator and colleague. Her positive attitude, leadership, creativity, and dedication to fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff make her deserving of recognition as Staff Member of the Month!"
Gina Dobbs, a Special Education Instructional Assistant at Spalding Park Elementary School
"Gina has stepped into a new roll this and is doing an amazing job navigating it. She does it all with a smile on her face and stays focused and calm at all times. Her love and concern for students if evident in everything she does. Spalding Park is lucky to have her on our team."
Brittany Covarrubias, an Administrative Assistant at the Educational Service Center
In her nomination, Brittany was recognized for being knowledgeable, approachable, and supportive.
"Her positive attitude and willingness make a difference to those that work with her. Brittany makes people feel comfortable asking questions and is always professional, patient, and respectful. She truly deserves to be recognized for her hard work, kindness, and commitment to supporting staff," noted Brittany's colleague.
Chase McInnis, an Instructional Assistant at Loess Hills Elementary School
"Chase McInnis, one of our outstanding instructional assistants at Loess Hills, builds positive relationships with students and makes them feel supported, comfortable, and welcome. He has gone above and beyond to support one of our new first-grade students, showing patience, kindness, and dedication. Chase is always willing to help wherever needed and brings a positive attitude and smile to each day. As he pursues his goal of becoming a teacher, we know his caring heart and love for students will make him an amazing educator. Chase is very deserving of Loess Hills Staff Member of the Month. We are lucky to have him on our team!"
Suzanne Cloud, a Preschool Teacher at Clark Early Childhood Center
"Suzanne is thoughtful in approach and application in her role as a preschool educator. Suzanne holds high expectations for herself, her team, and her students. Suzanne applies multiple methods and strategies for instruction and leads her class well. Suzanne observes, analyzes and differentiates instruction to meet student needs. Thank you for your leadership, influence and dedication, Suzanne. We are grateful for you and your investment in the SCCSD Preschool Program!"
Kim Wilson, a Kindergarten Teacher at Morningside Elementary School
"Kim Wilson is a presence of calm in our Morningside community! She consistently demonstrates patience, a calm and reassuring voice, and a willingness to collaborate with others. Kim works intentionally to create a welcoming classroom where students feel safe, valued, and connected. Her steady presence, positive relationships, and commitment to supporting all learners are appreciated!"
Lucia Donado, a Foundations Instructional Assistant at Hunt Elementary School
"Ms. Donado does a fantastic job working with our Foundations students and is very deserving of being named Hunt Elementary School’s Staff Member of the Month for October! She is a welcoming, caring, and positive influence on our students and staff. She comes to work each day with a smile on her face, a positive attitude, and a readiness to make a difference in the lives of the students she serves.
Ms. Donado creates a supportive and encouraging environment where our Foundations students feel cared for, valued, and supported. Her patience, compassion, and dedication help build meaningful relationships with students and contribute to their growth and success. She understands the importance of meeting students where they are and providing the encouragement and support they need to be successful.
In addition to the wonderful work she does with students, Ms. Donado is a great addition to the Hunt team. She builds positive relationships with her colleagues, works well with others, and brings a team-oriented attitude to our building. Her kindness, dependability, and willingness to contribute make her a valued member of our school community.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Ms. Donado on our team! Thank you, Ms. Donado, for the positive impact you make each day!"
Sara Medbourn, a Fourth-Grade Teacher at Riverside Elementary School
"Sara is such a positive role model for her students. She brings a sense of calmness and kindness to the classroom and supports her students every day. She is an active member on the Social Studies Committee along with Riverside's CARE Team. We are so thankful for the difference she makes each day at Riverside Elementary. Thank you for helping our Roadrunners grow greatness together!"
McKinzi Bruhn, a Special Education Teacher at Leeds Elementary School
"Mrs. Bruhn stepped into a new classroom to start the year and has continued to demonstrate flexibility, patience, and a willingness to learn and grow. Mrs. Bruhn embraces changes and challenges with a positive attitude, an open mind, and an unwavering commitment to her students. Even when faced with new challenges and unexpected situations, she continues to approach each day with a positive mindset and a determination to do what is best for her students.
What stands out most about Mrs. Bruhn is her ability to keep student needs at the center of everything she does. She is thoughtful in her decisions, willing to adapt her approach, and committed to creating a learning environment where students feel supported and can experience success. Her dedication to her students and willingness to embrace change reflect the heart of what it means to be an educator.
We recognize that stepping outside of what is familiar isn’t always easy, and we appreciate the grace, resilience, and professionalism Mrs. Bruhn continues to demonstrate. Her efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for the positive impact she makes on our students and our Leeds community.
Thank you, Mrs. Bruhn, for always putting students first and helping our Future Stars Level Up!"
John Stibbs, a School Liason Officer at East High School
"John is truly an asset to East High School and an incredible support to both staff and students. He is always willing to drop whatever he is doing to lend a helping hand. John consistently goes above and beyond to make sure those around him feel supported, valued, and cared for. John’s willingness to support others, his positive attitude and humor, make John a team player. He is one of the nicest and kindest people you could ever meet, and his positive attitude and willingness to help make a difference every day. Congratulations!"
Janelle Olesen, a Seventh-Grade Special Education Teacher at North Middle School
"Janelle is a hard-working passionate teacher that gives 100 percent every day. She treats every child with respect and kindness. Every challenge a child has is solvable in Janelle's eyes! Her educational coaching background and unique and vast teaching experience are a perfect match for exemplary teaching and problem solving on a daily basis. The extra hours she gives back to her students is countless, and appreciated by her peers and students!"
Lee Johnson, a Physics and Chemistry Teacher at West High School
Students praised Mr. Johnson for making learning chemistry and coursework fun, engaging, and easy to understand through great real-world examples and clear explanations. Nominations highlighted how patient, approachable, and considerate he is with every student, always taking extra time to help with assignments and meet individual needs. Above all, students shared that he genuinely cares, loves teaching, and creates a welcoming, safe, and positive classroom environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Thank you, Mr. Johnson, for everything you do for our students and school!
Cara Kern, a Math Teacher at the Sioux City Career Academy
"Mrs. Kern shows up for students day after day. She has been a wonderful addition to the Career Academy. She fits into the culture of high rigor. Students have said of Mrs. Kern that she prepares them extremely well for advanced level coursework at the next level. She contributes in a very positive way to the entire staff development during Friday PD sessions. We love having her here! Congratulations Cara Kern!"
Sydney Luu, a Transitional Kindergarten Teacher at Liberty Elementary School
"Sydney Luu is a shining light at Liberty Elementary! As someone who helps shape our youngest students’ first experiences with school, she creates a caring, welcoming environment where every child can grow. Sydney meets students where they are, honors their unique needs, and approaches challenges with patience and positivity. Her ability to see the bright side, even in difficult situations, helps students and colleagues recognize possibilities and move forward with confidence. Sydney’s impact also reaches far beyond her classroom. Whenever she sees a need, she jumps in with a helping hand and a 'let’s do it' attitude. During problem-solving conversations, she offers thoughtful perspectives that help others see the good and focus on solutions. Her caring nature, optimism, and willingness to support others make her someone people gravitate toward and look forward to working alongside. We are fortunate to have Miss Luu at Liberty!"
Yvette Boysen, a Building Office Assistant at North High School
Yvette Boysen was nominated for her outstanding dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to students, staff, and the North High school community. Yvette plays an essential role in keeping our library running smoothly while creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone. She consistently goes above and beyond her job responsibilities, whether it is anticipating technology needs by preparing extra laptops during testing or willingly taking on challenges outside her regular duties. Her kindness, flexibility, and willingness to help make her someone both students and staff can always count on. Yvette is one of those individuals who quietly makes a tremendous difference in the daily success of our school. We are fortunate to have her as part of our team, and she is truly deserving of this recognition!
Shijan Oehlerking, an Eighth-Grade English Teacher at East Middle School
"Mrs. Oehlerking brings fun, energy, and joy to our school every single day! She is dedicated to supporting both students and staff and is always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed. Her positive attitude, caring nature, and joyful spirit brighten our school and make a difference in the lives of those around her. We are so lucky to have Mrs. O as part of our EMS Family!"
Amanda Corderman, a Special Education Teacher at Perry Creek Elementary School
"Amanda is an exceptional Special Education teacher who goes above and beyond each and every day for her students. Her dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment to meeting their individual needs do not go unnoticed.
What makes Amanda truly special is that her care and support extend far beyond the students on her caseload. She is always willing to step in and help any student in need. When Amanda sees a student struggling or a situation that needs attention, she doesn't simply walk by, she steps in, takes action, and makes a difference.
Amanda leads with her heart, puts students first, and demonstrates what it truly means to be a team player. Her willingness to do whatever it takes to support students and staff makes our school a better place every day.
Congratulations, Amanda! Thank you for your unwavering dedication, your kindness, and the incredible difference you make in the lives of our students. We are so fortunate to have you on our team!"
Whittney Carnahan, a Math Teacher at West Middle School
"Whittney Carnahan is highly deserving of Staff Member of the Month for the enthusiasm, care, and teamwork she brings to WMS. She creates an engaging classroom where students build confidence, develop a love of math, and actively engage with ALEKS. Whittney is always cheering students on and celebrating their progress while balancing strong relationships with clear, consistent classroom expectations. She works collaboratively with her co-teacher to support student learning and readily steps up to help her team whenever needed. Her positive energy, supportive spirit, and dedication make a meaningful difference for students and colleagues alike."
Brookelyn Mosier, a Kindergarten Teacher at Bryant Elementary School
Teresa Sutton said the following, "Kindergarten at the beginning of the school year comes with lots of excitement and challenges as students learn school routines. This is also a time for staff members to recognize the diverse needs of students in the classroom and work to support those needs. Brookelyn has done an amazing job of supporting the diverse needs of the students in her classroom, while also structuring routines to help her class as a whole be successful.
Brookelyn is always positive and upbeat in her interactions with her students. She is also a great collaborator and is always receptive to doing whatever she can to help change her classroom environment to support her learners. Brookelyn truly embodies the Bryant values of respect, accountability, and integrity and models these values to her kindergarten students every day. Even so early in the school year, she has already worked to promote a culture of acceptance and kindness in her classroom, which will put her students on track to have a great year in kindergarten at Bryant Elementary!"
Justin Harrell, an Auto Mechanic at Operations & Maintenance
"Justin is dependable, hardworking, and always willing to help at a moment’s notice. He stays busy and is ready to lend a hand wherever he is needed. Whether he is working on his own responsibilities or helping a coworker, Justin is someone our team can count on.
His willingness to pitch in and keep things moving makes a difference in our department and throughout the district. We appreciate the effort he brings each day and the support he provides to those around him.
Thank you, Justin, for your dedication, reliability, and commitment to our schools. We are proud to recognize you and grateful to have you on our team!"