The following employees were selected to receive the January Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the January 2025 school board meeting.
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.
Kelsey Bristow
PBIS coach at Ogden Elementary
Kelsey Bristow is a powerhouse at Ogden Elementary! As the school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Coach, Kelsey is instrumental in equipping teachers with research-backed strategies by presenting during staff meetings and having an active presence in classrooms. Kelsey truly lives out the mission of our PBIS Coaches, knowing that small positive interactions can have a ripple effect on school culture and community. One of her nominators shared the following, “If she notices a student is sad and she sees them come into the school with their shoulders droopy and tear-stained cheeks, she is the first to pull them aside to talk with them about their feelings. When staff are having difficult challenges in the classroom, she is the one who comes to our rescue with ideas, websites to consider, or just to offer a sympathetic ear.” Thank you, Kelsey.
Madison Donnelly
Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing with Special Services
Madison Donnelly opens doors of communication and understanding for our deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Her role as a teacher of the deaf and hard-of-hearing takes her throughout our district, where she gracefully adapts to each school’s distinct culture and contributes meaningfully to the community. Madison possesses a remarkable ability to identify and address the specific learning needs of each student, working tirelessly to create inclusive and accessible educational experiences. Her extraordinary efforts and genuine care set her apart as a true champion of education and inclusivity. Thank you, Madison.
Becca Howell
Paraeducator and Unified coach at Hudson’s Bay High School
Becca Howell has been a cherished paraeducator in the Hudson’s Bay Life Skills program since 2018 and a Unified Sports Coach for several years. Becca excels in providing personalized support, adapting her approach to meet each student’s unique needs to ensure they feel valued and fulfilled in their educational journey. She infuses kindness in both of her roles, approaching each staff or student interaction with deep empathy and respect. Beyond the classroom, Becca’s commitment to fostering inclusion shines through as a Unified Sports Coach, where she creates unforgettable experiences for all athletes. Her nominator expressed the sentiment shared by many: “We are so lucky to have your support at Bay, Becca!” Her kindness, empathy, and unwavering commitment to student success make her an all-star member of the Hudson’s Bay team. Thank you, Becca.
Jen Kooistra
School nurse at Hudson’s Bay High School
Jen Kooistra, fondly known as “Nurse Jen,” is a vital member of the Hudson’s Bay community. As the school nurse, she expertly manages all aspects of student health–from daily check-ups and chronic condition care to providing first aid. A dedicated advocate for student well-being, Jen collaborates closely with families to promote healthy lifestyles. She tirelessly strives to ensure all students receive equitable care and that the school environment effectively accommodates the unique medical needs of each individual, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all. Her nominator shares, “Nurse Jen is incredible and gives so much of her time and attention to every student every day, we would be lost without her!” Thank you, Jen.
Erin Stromme
Art Teacher at Washington Elementary and Lake Shore Elementary
We all have that one teacher who truly changes us, inspiring us to take a new direction in our lives or develop a new passion. Erin Stromme, an art teacher at Washington Elementary and Lake Shore Elementary, is that teacher for many of her students. A testament to her influence is the nomination she received from a former student, now in high school. This student credits Erin’s support as a key factor in their decision to pursue art at VSAA, and fondly recalls her as their “all-time favorite teacher.” Erin’s passion for art education is contagious, igniting creativity and fostering a love of learning in every student who enters her classroom. She consistently goes above and beyond, providing enriching opportunities and cultivating a supportive environment where students can explore their talents and discover new passions. Thank you, Erin.
