The following employees were selected to receive the October Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the October 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.
Lacey Lavin
5th Grade Teacher at Hough Elementary
Lacey Lavin, 5th grade teacher at Hough Elementary, is celebrated for her dedication to student-driven learning, creating a classroom that is incredibly dynamic and engaging. Her commitment ensures students are not passive learners, but collaborative owners of their academic and social growth. Whether it’s a class discussion, a hands-on project, or an interactive lesson, her students are deeply engaged in their learning, taking ownership of their ideas and growing both academically and socially.
Beyond her work in the classroom and with students, Lacey is an easygoing and collaborative team player who consistently steps up to support her colleagues and contribute to a positive school culture. Her dedication, flexibility, and leadership have made a lasting impact, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of the Hough team.
Thank you, Lacey.
David Mendez
DRO at Hudson’s Bay High School
The moment you step through the front doors of Hudson’s Bay, you immediately feel the positive and welcoming presence of DRO David Mendez. He is a true safety leader, and his dedication shines through in his professional and proactive approach to addressing concerns and finding effective solutions.
David approaches every situation with both safety and integrity as his top priorities. As his nominator attests, “David is always ready to assist, offering a smile and empathy to students and staff.”
David is a prime example of the Bay Way in action. He actively participates in building a supportive community, uses resources and knowledge to make informed decisions, works hard to find a way through difficult situations, and consistently strives to find common ground with others, always understanding that kindness matters.
Thank you, David.
Shannon McClelland
2nd/3rd Grade Split Teacher at Edgewood Elementary
We are delighted to celebrate Edgewood teacher Shannon McClelland, recognizing her 17 years of dedicated service and incredible commitment to our students and staff.
Shannon is a truly amazing educator who forms lasting connections with her students, showing deep care that extends far beyond the classroom. She is a model of perseverance, navigating the challenges of education with grace and always prioritizing the success of every child. Her nominator shares, “Shannon goes above and beyond in every way—whether it’s supporting her students, lending a listening ear to her colleagues, or stepping in to help wherever she’s needed. Her kindness, generosity, and ever-present smile make her not only an outstanding educator, but also a cherished member of our school community.”
Thank you, Shannon.
Angela Shaw
Teacher at Franklin Elementary
Angela Shaw, a teacher at Franklin Elementary, fosters a learning environment where every student feels safe, included, and respected. She has a gift for bringing a profound sense of calm to her classroom, no matter the challenge, blending endless patience with genuine passion for her craft. As one nominator describes, “Angela differentiates instruction to meet diverse needs, advocates for equity, and actively involves families and the broader community. Above all, she inspires curiosity and joy in learning, continually growing herself while empowering students to do the same.” In short, as another nominator states, “Angela is simply incredible!”
Thank you, Angela.
