February 2024 Employee Excellence Awards
The following employees were selected to receive the February Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the February 2024 school board meeting.
Carla Feltz, family engagement and technical assistance at Jim Parsley Center
Keith Johnson, restorative practices coach at Alki and Jefferson Middle Schools
Courtney Olsen, math intervention teacher at Hazel Dell Elementary School
Ashley Pirrone, teacher at Fort Vancouver High School
Stephanie Terry, teacher at Alki Middle School
Five employees are recognized between October and June of each school year. Nominations are open to staff, students, parents and community members. Nominees are selected for recognition by a committee of their peers.
In addition to awardees chosen by the peer nomination and Excellence Awards committee voting process, the Board of Directors may recognize recipients who have been nominated by the Superintendent’s Cabinet for demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to VPS students and their families.
Carla Feltz, family engagement and technical assistance coordinator
Jim Parsley Center
Carla Feltz, the family engagement and technical assistance coordinator, is an extremely valuable member of the Community Schools Team. She provides district-wide support to coordinators, schools, students and families. She is passionate about collaborating with others to ensure that barriers are removed and students have what they need to be in school and ready to learn. She is also incredibly resourceful and able to find support for students and families in the most challenging of times! Thank you, Carla.
Keith Johnson, restorative practices coach
Alki and Jefferson Middle Schools
Keith Johnson, a restorative practices coach at Alki and Jefferson Middle Schools is passionate about his work and committed to building a culture of belonging at the schools he serves. When working with students he creates a space where the issues can be reviewed and students can be heard. Students always leave the conversation with their dignity intact. Keith has a truly amazing way with the students, and his passion for the work is evident in everything he does. Thank you, Keith.
Courtney Olsen, math intervention teacher
Hazel Dell Elementary School
Courtney Olsen is an amazing educator at Hazel Dell Elementary School who is committed to helping students develop their math skills. She creates unique math activities that are fun and engaging and she involves students in being responsible for their learning. Besides her dedication in the classroom, Courtney is the co-facilitator for the Lighthouse Staff Team, head of the Garden Team and an iReady Coordinator. Thank you, Courtney.
Ashley Pirrone, teacher
Fort Vancouver High School
Ashley Pirrone is a phenomenal educator at Fort Vancouver High School. In addition to her excellent teaching skills, she also has a way of creating an inclusive classroom environment where all learning styles are welcome. Students feel respected and have the same classroom experience, regardless of their academic background. Ashley is a wonderful role model for students and teachers alike. Thank you, Ashley.
Stephanie Terry, teacher
Alki Middle School
Stephanie Terry is not only an inspirational teacher at Alki Middle School, she is a wonderful person who is involved in nearly every aspect of the school. Her love of teaching is evident in the care she shows students and her communications with parents and other staff are especially strong. Besides her classroom responsibilities, she teaches the school’s leadership program and participates in monthly observances. Thank you, Stephanie.
