001Hello. All right. Um, so I am Adrien Johnson. I'm the vice chair of the board of tonight. So I will start meeting. So start by calling the board of education meeting 2026 to order 602. Um in person we have Whitney and Sean myself and Dr. Herman is online. I believe we might have some other board members um online. So um this meeting is a great meeting for board members and um I apologize for the ones that couldn't be here and Dr. Aman did say to for me to tell you that she wishes she could be here. Congrats. Um but this is a great meeting for us as you know or may not know like our our meetings get um you know preod business stuff that's not um as much of a celebration um especially the
002budget that we're just um right this meeting is a recognition of students um and staff and we just really appreciate the it's not just for students and staff but all the supporters behind me all the families and friends to support these. So again, thank you for coming out few words. >> Hi everyone. One of my favorite nights as well. You know they say it takes a village. Well, this year more than ever it is taking a village and one of the things been struggles and challenges this year. We've lost some people. It's been um one of those years that everybody has come together. I couldn't be more proud to serve public schools and be part of this wonderful community. I can't tell you how much it means to me. But the love that has poured
003out from every school, every staff member from our larger community to help support us has been amazing. So it really is a celebration of a year that has been supported by communities. And there's no greater privilege than to work in a place that's so near and dear and filled with such kindness and love. So I thank you all so very much. We're going to run the meeting so that each principal and assistant principal can come up and [snorts] honor their folks. And we have some certificates and some plaques to give out. So my board members will help me with delivering those to you. So when we um call you one by one from each school come up and we'll you know honor you and the principal has some and assistant principal will have some wonderful
004words to celebrate you. [crying] We'll start with high school and we've got um principal Brown and assistant principal here and the other two are at the high school because they have other awards. They've had awards all week celebrating our Stitch Falcons who rise. >> Good evening everyone. Um, very lucky to be here to announce all of our winners. I'm Matt Brown with Blackidge High School and Amy with me as well. We'll start with our student awards. First, we have Noah Metsy, the poet laurette winner. Noah uh is Fitch High School 2026 poet Laurette. Noah's poetry is lyrical jarring and philosoph Noah read at the youth will be served with that on March 27th at the LRUR center in in Stony and we we wanted to honor him uh for his achievement tonight. So, no one.
005[applause] Next, we have Vera Ross for the Young Playrights Festival. Vera was invited to the Young Playrights Festival as a guest playwright. Her play We All Die Twice is a timeless characterization of life's meaning. Bear's ability to combine interesting characters and philosoph philosophical illusions is marvelous. Um, I also want to mention that Noah and Dane Robinson are also semi finalists. So again, Vera Ross. [applause] Next, we have our cave student leadership uh earning Cape certificates and that's Lauren Bul and Nicholas Donaldson. I know I saw Lauren out there I believe [applause] served at board of education student representatives over the past couple years. Uh they are both true leaders for the class of 2026 and have made us extremely proud. They're both leaders academically in the gym and in the pool. Thank you. [applause] Next,
006we have our uh friend of education certificate and that goes to Chris Hugo. Chris Hugo is a dedicated groundskeeper with the town of Graten Parks and Rep whose behind-the-scenes work on our athletic fields is second to none. His commitment and dedication to maintaining our field and facilities uh are at a high standard directly supports our student athletes, athletic programs, and community. Through Chris's reliability and consistent support, Chris Hug Hugo became a valued member of our athletic department. Again, Chris Hugo. [applause] Uh, honored support staff is Ryan Miller. Ryan Miller is a dedicated tutor who serves deeply who is deeply committed to the fish community. He contributes not only within the ABA classrooms but also through his involvement in athletics and school activities. We appreciate his continued commitment to our students and the positive impact he
007has been has has by being actively involved in their high school both inside and outside classes. Brian Bill [applause] and I I do want to say I think a lot of these people might be at the athletic awards right now and I think the next one as well Greg Lana is our substitute of the year. Greg Lana has been a big part of our community as building substitute at Fitch for a number of years. He is also assistant coach to the girls softball team. His commitment and dedication are evident with the amount of teachers who request that Greg sub in their classes when they are out. His sense of humor and showing pictures of his grandson are an irreplaceable part of the morning routines in the third floor office. We are so pleased to recognize
008him as our building substitute of the year. Again, that's Greg. [applause] Next we have our par educator of the year, Amber Cool. Come on up, Amber. [applause] Amber Cool is a dedicated PAR educator who consistently supports students and staff with flexibility and professionalism. She is always willing to shift gears to assist with various programs across the school and contributes positively to the broader school community. Her strong commitment to her student and the success of all students makes her an equal member of high school. [applause] Now call Miss Amy Wetta up to say some words about our last. So one final person that High School wants to recognize tonight. We also want to recognize on behalf of GR public schools. We are so proud to recognize Laurel Donovan as the 2026 Brockton public schools teacher of
009the year. Laurel's commitment to the teaching profession shines not only in her creativity in lesson design, but also in the connection she makes to so many students in the building who identify her as a trusted adult. Above the long list of qualities that exemplify her as a professional, her kindness to her students fills the warmth and engaging climate of her classroom. Mrs. Donovan teaches English 10, AP Yukon English 11, Yukon Ed Rising, and honest advising. She demonstrated dedication for developing the critical thinking, reading, and writing skills of her students. She continues to pour positive energy into the education pathway at pitch in partnering with students in her edrising classroom with teachers across the district. Laurel also serves as the girls track coach and adviser to the pitch travel club. In addition to taking pit students
010around the world almost every summer, she crafts fun and engaging lessons for her classes, including various escape rooms to make critical reading teaching fun. Your classroom always buzzing with energy and welcoming with squishillows is a great place to be. Congratulations, Laurel. [applause] [applause] >> [applause] >> She is teacher of the year. So we going to partner together where she will be honored among others that are teach. [applause] Okay. Bass is coming up to talk about the Brock Middle School in this beautiful building. What do you think? [applause] All right, we start with student awards. Cat Gilmore, please come up. [applause] Cat is one of two guest playwrights from the O'Neal and Young Plays Festival this year represented GMS. Yes. Tell you a little bit about her play. Radundis say Radundis is a play she wrote
011and it's a play by a group of three girls who decide to journey into a forest to ask for wishes. They each ask for money, fame or love. One gets infinite money but no satisfaction. One gets fame but won't be left alone. And one is forced to marry. Emily and Rattness end up with a daughter and Emily speaks out to learn sword fight each day bringing her daughter to school in disguise. After many years, Emily challenges Rabbi Gundas to a battle of words, wits, and skill. beating radicis in every challenge. Radus's brother releases her upon realizing the marriage's force turns radic into a congratulations [applause] Piper here. Come on up. I [applause] in her play mind games and she's also has play right in her play mind games. Ella is a girl in high school
012who tries not to speak up for herself or others or else her appear in a state that will make the rest of her high school purpose forever. When Ella is invited to the movies with a couple of other friends, a mysterious figure is shown on the screen. Ella soon figures out that this is not just an ordinary moon day. Suddenly, bats are flying every which way. She and a couple of friends tried to mosquito the clutches of the bats just to find out it was all a prank. Congratulations, Piper on. [applause] [applause] We have two cable award winners. First, Madison. Madison, are you here? Come on up, Madison. [applause] [applause] Madison is a true go-getter who brings kindness and positive attitude to every interaction with peers and adults alike. Characterized by her academic resilience and
013tenacity, she eagerly embraces any challenge that comes her way. This year, Madison administrator thoughtful leadership in her powerup class, taking sixth graders under her wing by offering academic support, motivating them to succeed and celebrating their accomplishments. Beyond the classroom, she's a vibrant part of the school community, having performed in the GMS productions of the Wizard of Oz and Frozen while also participating in the puzzle andor theme clubs. Combined with her outside dedication as a girl scout, Madison well-rounded achievements make her incredibly deserving of this honor. Congratulations. [applause] [applause] Second Award winner. Bodie is a dedicated student who tackles every academic challenge with confidence. But what truly sets him apart is his leadership in the classroom. When helping his peers, he never rushes them to an answer. choosing instead to guide her thinking and enthusiastically celebrating
014their success. Beyond academics has made a big impact on both screen and stage. Whether he's starring in multiple GM theater productions, singing with Eastern Regional Forests, or treating the school as a frequent host of the morning announcements, his presence is truly undeniable. Body's innate leadership and his absolute commitment to every bass life are truly [snorts] outstanding. Congratulations, Pony. >> [applause] >> This credit is Taylor Gray. Are you here? Yes. Come on up. [applause] Spirit. Taylor is a highly dependable and conscientious educator with a proven track record of excellent classroom management. Beyond her immediate teaching duties, she's a true team player who supports the wider district community by mentoring reubstitute teachers. Thank you, Taylor, for your commitment to our staff and students. [applause] [snorts] Is Mr. John Sie here? Come on up, Mr. Sie. [applause] >>
015[applause] >> Mr. Silsby is the GMS graduate of education award winner this year. For the past 5 years, John has served as a dedicated mentor within the GRE district. He has supported his first mentee from middle school through their current time at Pitch High School while simultaneously guiding a second student here at GMS. As a deeply caring and positive role model, John truly understands the impact of his work, serving as a reliable support constant in these young lives. Congratulations, John. And thank you. [applause] And this gley here, Christine Gley, come on up, Christine. [applause] Chris is our non-certified personnel award winner this year. Tonight, it's a true honor to present the non-certified personnel award to GR Middle School's exceptional IT technician, Christine Freley. She is incredibly hardworking and dependable, tirelessly pushing every technique for our
016students and staff because quite frankly, we simply could not survive without her. Please join me in a resounding round of applause for ind our indicted tech hero Chris [applause] are you here [applause] for this year tonight we honor Sara a kindhearted and dedicated air educator whose bright spirit and unwavering Every commitment brings energy and positivity to every corner of our school. Whether she is facilitating the delivery of mail, celebrating student achievements with a joyful dance, or showing off her basketball skills, Miss C works tirelessly to ensure that every student feels seen, heard, valued, and accepted. Her profound belief in inclusion creates a welcoming environment where students truly thrive, making her an inspiring example of what it means to look like every individual. Congratulations. [applause] And now we are on to our teacher of the year,
017Jen. And if you are willing and able to do something not [applause] here this year is Chad. This year the ground middle school staff was proud and deeply moved to collectively name Chad Fleming as our teacher of the year. Though we tragically lost Chad in September, the impact of his service to our school and community remains to be. As an exceptional language arts teacher and the dedicated coach of girls volleyball and boys basketball, Chad poured his heart into supporting our youth. He was quiet and powerful. An unassuming man whose true strength lay his ability up with others. Chad always pushed his students and athletes to look at the big picture. He has a unique talent for asking the right questions. right times guiding kids to think critically and make positive choices for themselves. Chad was
018more than just a teacher and coach who's a mentor, a role model, and dear friend to us all. He is sorely missed every day, and this award is a small token of our immense gratitude for his lasting work on the Middle School community. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> And now have to hold down his feet. and principal name is going to come up here with Danette I'm sure and we honored her um this past week because she is retiring after many years serving Brockton and we will truly miss her but I know her phone number I already told her there'll be times I need her and we all do so um and she can talk about her staff So CK's Frank Education Award winner is Cararissa Olson. Is Carissa here? [applause] Carissa Gulpstein is our
019friend award winner in recognition of her years of outstanding service and unwavering commitment to our school community. As a dedicated PTO leader and volunteer, she's been a steady, positive presence who consistently gives her time, energy, and leadership to support school events and initiatives, helping to create a strong sense of community and belonging. As her son transitions to middle school, Carissa leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, service, and dedication that will be deeply missed and long remembered. Congratulations, >> [applause] >> Um, our support personnel award winner, Sarah. [applause] Sarah Bey is this year's recipient of the Catherine support personnel award in recognition of her exceptional dedication, versatility, and commitment to the CKMS community. As both a kindergarten aid and our community coordinator, she provides nurturing support to students while building strong connections between the school
020and our families, ensuring that all feel welcomed, valued, and supported. Whether she's assisting in the classroom, supporting the front office, or helping at school events, Sarah's kindness, professionalism, and unwavering willingness to help make her an invaluable member of our community. Congratulations, [applause] Catherine is proud to have Carol Bishop as our substitute teacher of the year. [applause] We recognize Carol for her exceptional reliability, professionalism, and dedication to our students. Carol seamlessly serves in a variety of roles from classroom teacher to para educator and consistently arrives prepared to support learning across any grade level and subject area. Her dependable presence, strong rapport with our students and commitment to the school community have made her an invaluable member of the CKMS family. Congratulations [applause] Our para educator award winner is Anna Rubies. [applause] >> [applause] >> Katherine Powki
021is proud to have Anna release for the Ann Marie Murphy Parah Educator of the Year Award in recognition of her exceptional dedication, compassion, and skill in supporting a student with complex learning and social emotional needs. Through her strong relationship building, consistent presence, and balanced approach of support and accountability, Anna has helped foster significant academic and behavioral growth. Her commitment to all students, reflective practice, and continuous pursuit of effective strategies make her an invaluable member of our CKMS community, and a highly deserving recipient of this honor. >> [applause] >> And Catherine Kowski's teacher of the year is Lauren Schwab. [applause] CKMS is honored to have Lauren Schwab, an exceptional educator whose dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit represent the best in our teacher teachers as CK's teacher of the year. Lauren is an invaluable teammate, consistently supporting
022colleagues through her organization, instructional creativity, problem solving skills, and willingness to develop modifications that meet the needs of all learners. Lauren creates a calm, structured classroom environment where students feel a strong sense of belonging and are able to thrive both academically and socially. Her steady, caring approach fosters responsibility, confidence, and positive leadership among her fifth grade students, many of whom serve as role models for younger students throughout the school. Beyond her classroom, Lauren's behind the scenes contributions, research ex expertise, and dependable support help strengthen our entire school family. Congratulations [applause] And now, Principal Stephanie Sawyer for Charles Bar. [applause] Good evening everybody. Um I am honored to call up for our non-certified staff. [applause] in our classrooms to bring the positivity and warmth of everybody she encounters. She is always willing to lend a helping
023hand and consistently goes above and beyond to support our students and staff. Congratulations [applause] >> [applause] >> to follow our professional of the year, Mr. Michael. [applause] Mr. Ward is a steadfast president in our school. Someone students and staff can always rely on to support even in the most challenging situations. to relax in those situations. He remains calm, professional, and through serving as a model to others every day. Congratulations. [applause] We are very very honored to call up Miss Patty as our teacher of the year. [applause] embodies what it means to be a true leader of the year. Her positivity is contagious and she is truly a light in our school community. Every day she greets students and colleagues with a smile and a wavering commitment to doing what is best for children. Patty leads
024by example, demonstrating professionalism, compassion, and dedication in all that she does. She serves as a guiding light for both students and staff, inspiring those around her to be their her best. Her willingness to support colleagues and share her expertise help strengthen our entire school community. The relationship she built with those students create a classroom environment where children feel valued, supported, supported, and empowered to succeed in the occasional dance party. So, congratulations [applause] >> [applause] >> apologute of the year is [applause] And now for Northeast Academy, we've got one of them sitting right up front. We have Brian Jen and Stephanie coming up. [applause] All right, good evening everyone. We will start with our building substitute of the year. She's not here, but she certainly deserves shout out. Sarah King. Sarah King is an outstanding building
025substitute who consistently provides stability, support, and positive relationships for students throughout our school. Her ability to connect with students and staff alike makes her an invaluable asset to our entire school community. students genuinely enjoy working with her and we are fortunate to have someone so dedicated, dependable and caring as part of our team. [applause] Next, Mr. Justin Briner. Come on up here, my friend. [applause] Justin is being recognized as our non-certified personnel recipient of the year for the warm, stable, and compassionate support he provides each day in our TK classroom. His patience, grace, and natural ability to connect with our youngest learners helped create a nurturing environment where kids feel safe, valued, and ready to learn. His calm demeanor and thoughtful approach made a lasting impact on students, staff, and families alike. And we are
026grateful for everything he does for our school community. >> [applause] >> Uh, Northeast Academy is uh very excited to uh award Christina Coen, our friend of the education award. [applause] Christina is one of the friendliest and kindest members of our NA community. Known to so many students as Miss Cy, she takes time to truly know the children on her bus, their schedules, their personalities, their individual needs. She's attentive, patient, and caring, making every child feel welcomed and supported each day. All this while safely navigating that big yellow bus with a smile. Her dedication and compassion make a lasting impact on our students and families who are so fortunate to have her as part of our school community. [applause] All right, Miguel J as our para educator of the year. [applause] [applause] Mr. Miguel, as he
027is known by students and staff, consistently demonstrates the power of positive relationships and dedication within our school community. He brings a calm, caring, and supportive presence to our building each and every day. Always working to ensure that both students and staff have a successful day. Miguel has an exceptional ability to deescalate situations with patience and respect, and students respond to him with a tremendous level of trust and admiration during both instructional and unstructured times. Whether in the classroom supporting small group instruction or outside of recess, organizing games and bringing students together, he is always actively engaged and looking for ways to support others. Many students who would otherwise be standing alone can be can be found laughing, playing, and connecting with others because of Mr. Miguel's efforts. Congratulations. [applause] All right. Uh, and I'm very
028honored to present um, Kimberly Macho with our teacher of the year award. [applause] Kimacho is truly the heart of our school. She ad students adore her, staff rely on her, and no matter the request, she is always willing to step up and help. Her kindness, creativity, and dedication are woven into the fabric of NEA. Mrs. Macho models what it means to be a lifelong learner and artist, sharing her passion for art in ways that inspire students every day. Her enthusiasm for art is contagious and she takes tremendous pride in celebrating the creativity and accomplishments of her students. From clay sculptures to paintings and a wide variety of artistic mediums, she exposes students to diverse forms of artistic expression while helping them develop confidence in their own abilities. Whenever I run into a former NEA student
029who has long since left us, one of the first questions I hear is, "How is this beneficial?" She's the kind of educator students remember forever. Someone who leaves a lasting imprint on their lives long after they leave our hallways. Beyond the art room, she helps make Eddie feel like home through her creative contributions from seasonal displays to programs like the Sunrise Sketch Club in the art program in combination with our media specialists. She has also embraced the Wake curriculum, thoughtfully connecting art to classroom learning. Mrs. Miss Bonancho is also an active member of the school climate committee, a valued contributor to meetings and PCTs and someone who works hard to build meaningful relationships with families. Her positive influence reaches every corner of our school community. This recognition is truly welld deserved and we could not
030be more proud to celebrate Kim as our teacher of the year. [applause] >> [applause] >> And now for James River Magnet Schools. Did Jamie had a couple assistants with her? >> All right, I have my assistant principal and teacher leader Jill Dardi. And just a disclaimer, we have field day today. So, hence TTR. So, all right, we'll get started. Miss Shannon Amy, she is our friend. Come on up. [applause] Shannon as our friends recipient. Shannon has been an active dedicated member of our school community serving as BTO president where her leadership has made a positive meaningful impact. She supports all of our events. all of our events helping to make sure each event runs smoothly start to finish. Students know and love Miss Shannon and are always excited to see her at every event. Shannon
031also organizes numerous fundraisers including big sales, pencil grants, popcorn, and sometimes pickle sales all to support enriching experience for our students. This year, Shannon, spearheaded a creative, fun-filled staff appreciation full week starting with Princess Leia Cinnon buns on day of work. Great theme. Shannon's commitment and positivity and tireless effort have made her truly deserving of this recognition. Congratulations, Shannon. [applause] For our non-certified staff this year, we have Victoria Thomas. [applause] Danger Magnus School is proud to recognize Victoria Thomas as our non-certified staff of the year. Victoria is the kind of person every school hopes to have on their team. As our community coordinator, she works behind the scenes to ensure everything is ready for students. Often anticipating needs before teachers even have an act. Her kindness creates a welcoming, supportive environment, and her strong work
032ethic keeps grade level teams organized and focused on student success. She also supports the front office by helping answer phones, and greeting families and assists the PTO by sharing communication about events and fundraisers. always willing to lend a hand. Victoria is an important part of our school community and truly deserves truly deserving of this recognition. Congratulations [applause] Magnus School is proud to recognize my substitute teacher of the year. [applause] Over the past two years, Diane has demonstrated reliability and dedication to our students. In January, she stepped into a challenging long-term uh grade five assignment, providing stability, strong instruction, and meaningful support for students, families, and staff. Diane builds strong relationships with students through lunches, team building activities, and encouragement while also committing herself to learning our new math and ELA programs through close close collaboration
033with her grade level team and our specialists. Her compassion, professionalism, and commitment have made a meaningful impact on our school community. Congratulations [applause] >> [applause] >> The inter magnus school is proud to recognize Melanie shut as our parent educator of the year. [applause] Melanie is an invaluable member of the TRMS community, supporting students and staff with patience, kindness, and a calm demeanor. She creates a safe, supportive environment where all students can be successful and feel valued. As an integral part of the fourth grade team, she consistently goes above and beyond to support all students. Her reliability, flexibility, and willingness to step in wherever needed, make a meaningful difference each day. Melanie's positive, hardworking approach makes her highly deserving of recognition as parent. [applause] Beans River Magnet School is honored and so very proud to recognize
034Jane Pod as our [applause] Teaching may be a profession for some, but for Jane, it truly is an art and a calling. She epitomizes teaching. Jane connects with her students through warmth, joy, and genuine love of learning. In her grade 1 classroom, Jane created a space filled with laughter, curiosity, and care while seamlessly meeting the many, many needs academically, emotionally of her students while providing meaningful, engaging instruction each day. Beyond the classroom, she mentors new teachers, leads school and district initiative, facilitates science club, and consistently advocates for students and their families, colleagues, making her an invaluable asset to our entire school community. Jean exemplifies everything we hope for in a teacher of the year, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate this welldeserving recognition. Congratulations, Jean. [applause] [cheering] >> [applause] >> And Jane is also
035retiring, but she's not going far. We have her number, too. They don't leave us. They come back and do the fun stuff. All right, Mystic River Magnet School, come on down. [applause] Welcome. Good uh good evening. We're going to start with Mr. Paul Depawa and Shira Seo. They are going to honor our first two recipient. [applause] Thank you, Mr. Wheeler. Um I have the honor of uh announcing neighbor Chrisino as our building substitute. [applause] I interviewed Angela last summer. I knew she would be fantastic right away. Uh she graduated from Salv Regina one year ago and she's currently going for her masters in education. Um she tells me all the time it's very nostalgic being at Mystic River as she works alongside many of her former teachers. um we can put her in any class
036from a preschool to a grade five to supporting our ABA program. She's very valuable and the kids love her, respect her and we appreciate her. So, um she told me she will be certified next year and I hope she's working at Mr. Grimmer fulltime. [applause] >> [applause] >> All right. It is my honor to recognize Paul as mystic river magical [applause] during her 24 years of service in GR. Paula has dedicated herself to supporting students at Eastern Point SC Butler and now beyond her program at Vist River. Paula has demonstrated extraordinary care, patience, and compassion for every child she works with. I have witnessed this firsthand as an administrator and also as a teacher in high school. We are deeply grateful for her unwavering commitment and the positive impact she continues to make in our
037school community. Congrats. [applause] And Paula, like Laurel, not only is the recipient for her school, but she's also our par educator of the year >> [applause] [applause] >> Okay, I'd like to call Lynn Banger. She is our um friends of education recipient this year. [applause] It's a true pleasure to nominate Lynn Beler as our friends of education award. Lynn has served as our PTO co-chair and has dedicated so much of her time to support our staff and students this year. Just to name a few things and this is just a few things of the many things that she does. Uh she helps to organize our school fundraisers, the book fair, supporting staff, the lunches, the many appreciations and supplies that she's given. She's coffee truck at our school. Um I can't even think of the
038other things. I mean, just gifts and treats and everything to keep us going, field trips for our students and supporting community members, uh coming into our school for events. Lyn is truly an important member of our school community. We greatly appreciate all she does. [applause] Our non-certified uh personal of the year, Rhonda Dudra, is our school nurse. She is not here tonight, but I do still want to uh read just a quick few words about her. Great pleasure to recognize Rhonda Dutra as our non-certified personnel this year. Rhonda serves as our school nurse. We talk a lot about superpowers at Mystic River. Rhonda certainly uses those superpowers each and every day to keep our students and staff safe, healthy, feeling good. We had a very challenging year at Mystic River this year. Rhonda was a
039rock and her unwavering dedication and commitment to ensuring that our staff were taken care of and supported through the nursing office and we thank Rhonda for all she does for us. [applause] I'd like to call up our teacher of the year, Liz Koolage. [applause and cheering] Before I read what we have for Liz, I just want to digress to my first interview. That was with Liz coming in for our speech vacancy. I was with Pam Porter. Um Liz was coming in and she was absolutely petrified. Um shaking, trembling, the poor thing. She was a hot mess. But Lizzy does an amazing job at our school. I say that with a lot of love. Um, lots of jokes go on with Liz and I and um, she's really come together as a wonderful, wonderful educator. But
040I just remember those early days. Miss River Magnet School proudly chooses Liz Pulich as our distinguished educator. Liz serves as one of our speech and language pathologists and she is truly dedicated to the success and growth of the children that she services. Liz is a versatile educator. She demonstrates her ability to instruct a wide variety of students and she can ac assess each student's unique needs and tailor her teaching to accommodate diverse interests and provide individualized instruction. Miss Kulage is a great team player and she supports our crisis team of the building by responding to calls, providing deescalation techniques and restorative practices. She is the first to offer help when areas of building need coverage or if we are ever in a pinch with bus duty or midday coverage. Liz is always there to help.
041She Liz truly approaches each day with a student centered thinking and decisionmaking approach. Lastly, she is a true playmaker. Liz approaches each day with a positive outlook and looks for ways to have fun while bringing joy to her students and our whole school community. Congratulations. [applause] Um, as I alluded to prior, we had a very um difficult year at Mystic River. Um, our staff and our support staff did an amazing job getting us through each and every day. Um, we lost Carrie Nestrom this year. She was one of our first grade teachers very unexpectedly. Uh, Mrs. Nestrom was by far one of the best first grade teachers I've seen. Um, I do want to try to capture as much about her as I can and I'm going to do that by reading a poem. And
042the poem was written by one of our pair of professionals, uh, Vanessa Schulz. Uh, and this is actually in our yearbook on a page that's dedicated to Carrie room 18. Room 118 by Vanessa Schaw. Today we say your name with soft voices because she loved softness. She was the kind of teacher who didn't rush you. When your shoes were on the wrong feet or your letters lean the wrong way or your feelings were bigger than your words. She had patience that felt like a warm hug, like a deep breath, like it's okay, try again. In her classroom, mistakes weren't scary. They were just art learning. And learning to her wasn't just reading in math. It was learning how to be kind, how to listen, how to believe in yourself. Even when you're six and the
043world still feels very big. She had a gift, the kind that you just can't teach. She could look at a child and really see them. not just for who they were that day, but who they were becoming. If she had a superpower was love, quiet love, patient love, that kind that didn't need attention to change lives. That's why years later, students still remember her. Families still speak her name with gratitude. Because when she feels seen like that, you never forget it. She talked with gentleness and she lived it, too. Her impact didn't end when you got on the bus that followed children home into their confidence into into who they grew up to be. Today, we miss her. That part is true. But we also celebrate her because love like hers doesn't disappear. It lives
044on in every child who feels great uh raising their hand and every teacher who chooses patience and every moment that we decide to be kind even when it's hard. So today, every day, we don't say goodbye. We say thank you. Thank you for the patience you showed, the kindness you gave, and the way that you talked with your whole heart. Some stories are so good we never forget them. You will read them in your memories. You pass them on. And we will always remember one of the greatest books ever written. Mrs. Carrie had a nice structure story. [applause] >> [applause] >> We honor Carrie Num for her dedication and 40 years of service to GR public schools. And I hope you have a copy of that yearbook, too. >> [applause] [applause] >> So as you
045can see this This is a a very wonderful board meeting. The board really recognizes the wonderful staff that we have and takes the time to make sure that we can celebrate our staff. And you can see how it really matters. Community, kindness, love. That's what it's all about here. No matter how the rest of the world is behaving, at Bronze Public Schools, we try to have a beautiful culture and climate so our children will thrive. and it's all about them. So, [clears throat] thank you. And I think we have another job to do in the meeting. So, I'm going to let Vice Chair um Johnson do that work. [applause] Again, thank you all and all the staff. Congratulations. Thank you, Julie. Um a lot background really appreciate all the work that motion. All right. Thank
046you. [applause]