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Spotlight on Carol Combs, Sarah Penaz, Jennifer Russian, Corinne McVee at mClass Testing Team!

This wonderful group of women, makes our 2 week testing time go back with fun and laughter. I can count on them for doing the best work and making our testing team fantastic.

- Heather Helgeson, Teacher

Spotlight on Tonya Quiett at IT!

Tonya consistently and graciously provides assistance for any given question. She has a wealth of knowledge and is generous in sharing. Her willingness to help is truly appreciated and especially valued.

- Ellen Segal, Administrative Assistant

Spotlight on Katie Bowman at Ravenwood Elementary!

I wanted to express my deepest gratitude to Mrs. Bowman at Ravenwood for all her hard work with her third grade students. She sets the bar high and makes sure that students reach their maximum potential. The growth that my daughter has made in such a short amount of time is mind-blowing and it makes my heart so happy to see her flourish in school. Her teaching style is patient, graceful, and full of love. Thank you, Mrs. Bowman, for your dedication!

Spotlight on Ryan Young and "Lance" Harmon at Senior Carpenter-Maintenance!

Talent Management envisioned it and ASD Carpenters Ryan and Lance built it!

The Talent Management department has been visualizing a cabinet for our office. They measured it, built it, and delivered the beautifully crafted cabinet built to last for generations.

We just wanted to take a moment to let you know how much we appreciate what you did for us.

- Sabra Peterson, Sabra Peterson, Talent Management

Spotlight on Lindsey Shippen at O’Malley Elementary

Amazing teacher that goes above and beyond for her students!

- Morgan Lopez, Parent

Spotlight on Keith Hodson at CTE!

Keith has been such an amazing resource and support to the long-term sub and new CTE teachers at Hanshew Middle School this year. He is always willing to provide new and innovative ideas for lessons, model and teach the staff how to use the tools and machines, and provide opportunities for students to learn and excel using technology. We are grateful to have him in ASD!

- Lakhita Hodge, Peer

Spotlight on Megan Hatswell, Anna McGlockin, Andy Baalarud, Travis Morgan and all Mustang Staff at Chugiak High School!

Just taking a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to Megan and her team for allowing me to join the Mustang herd while completing my admin internship! I had an incredible experience at Chugiak High School. The efficiency and teamwork displayed by everyone truly made it a well-oiled machine. I gained invaluable insights and skills that I will carry with me throughout my journey. Thank you all for the opportunity and support! You all are ROCKIN' IT! Go Mustangs!

- Lindsey Shangin, Admin Intern

Spotlight on Lisa Johnson at Wonder Park!

Lisa Johnson has shown exceptional dedication by volunteering her time and working tirelessly to secure support for our students. She has been instrumental in connecting with businesses and organizing volunteers to assist our teachers and students. Additionally, as our PLC SBS, she plays a key role in guiding and supporting staff to maximize the effectiveness of our PLC sessions. Her leadership and commitment are invaluable to our school community.

- Donna Moats, Principal

Spotlight on Petra Burkard at Chugiak Elementary Scholl Nurse!

Thank you for taking such good care of the students at Chugiak Elementary. You are always welcoming, kind, and helpful. Thank you for being an outstanding nurse!

- Megan Hatswell, Parent

Spotlight on Keith Hodson at CTE!

Keith has been instrumental in completing a special project with multiple schools and community partners. He is professional, kind and willing to get things done. I appreciate Keith's ability to support student outcomes that involve our community partners. Thank you Keith for being a rock star!

- Colette Moring, School Partner

Spotlight on Emma White at Baxter Elementary!

A staff member at our school experienced a medical emergency, and thanks to Emma's swift action and medical attention, the staff member is now on the road to recovery. Emma's efforts were highly praised by the doctors at Providence and the captain at Anchorage Fire Department for her professionalism and composure under pressure. We are incredibly fortunate to have Emma as a Nurse!

- Chelsea Garney, Principal

Spotlight on Angelo Espinoza at Service Desk- Tech/Help Desk

I want to sincerely thank Mr. Espinoza, as he worked a day and a half, trying to work out my computer kinks. I was not able to show or use my instructional slides, and he fixed it. I know there are other techs who have assisted me, but he went above and beyond to work on the problem tirelessly until all the bugs were worked out. And, all of this being done in a third grade, busy classroom. Thank you, you went above and beyond.

- Beth Senchantixay, Teacher

Spotlight on Colleen Morris at Winterberry Charter School admin!

With her deep kindness, solid presence and loving words, our stalwart front office admin, Ms. Colleen Morris, makes our school a true sanctuary for so many families. It starts in her heart and radiates through our whole school. As a parent, I carry this sanctuary of strength and tenderness from morning drop-off back with me into my home, especially on the wobbly days. With her warm grin, deep insight and keen attention she shows us what it looks like to be truly present and attuned to the joy and struggle all around us. Ms. Colleen knows has a loose tooth, a parent with cancer, a new baby sister, dance recital, a missing mitten, no lunch, a new puppy, four leaf-clover, permission slip, family vacation, insecure housing, a deal on snowsuits, how to get gum out, and she finds mutually dignified ways to weave us together. She addresses most people large and small as sweetie, babe, darlin', honey, my dear, love and says, "oh piffle!" She helps us raise our children in the sturdy love she reminds us of every day and for that, I say chin'an.

- Kelly DuFort, parent

Spotlight on Andrea Hammond at High School Special Ed Resource Teacher - Humphrey Heights!

I am so grateful to Ms.Annie and all the help she gave to my daughter Lilly in getting her high school diploma. With her unwavering belief in Lilly, through patience, guidance and encouragement, Ms.Annie was able to help Lilly to see her true potential and push through the struggles she was facing to finish high school. I will forever be grateful to Ms. Annie for her care and support!

- Darcie Sherrick, Parent

Spotlight on Naruepone Maleehuan at ELL/Chester Valley!

Naruepone was a great support as interpreter for a meeting. He was patient and calm with the children while also helping the parent navigate the assessment process. He provided the team with helpful feedback on the child's home language skills.

- EISC Assessment Team,

Spotlight on Lorenzo Amor at Operations-Night Custodian!

Mr. Lorenzo has been working double shifts for the past several weeks between Chugach Optional as night custodian and subbing for BPO at Rogers Park until a replacement is onboarded. His attention to detail, friendliness, and willing to help anyone with anything has been refreshing and well appreciated. Thank you, Mr. Lorenzo, for your dedication!

- Mary Wood, Principal, Rogers Park Elementary

Spotlight on Mr. Allen - Bus 232 at ASD Transportation!

Mr. Allen returned to Rogers Park this morning, after completing all of his morning bus routes, to deliver a student's lunch box to them that they forgot on the bus. Thank you, Mr. Allen!!

- Mary Wood, Principal, Rogers Park Elementary

Spotlight on Cathy Wright at Bartlett High School!

Cathy is absolutely awesome! She assisted us election workers with ensuring we had all the requested items ready for Nov. 5. Election. Cathy also offered to make extra directional signs and post them just in case voters accessed the east Entrance and had to walk through the school. We are all so grateful for her support and being our lighthouse for the 2024 General Election. Thank you Cathy!

- Mishelle Kennedy, Election Chair Bartlett location

Spotlight on Conrado Gaerlan at Bartlett high school!

Conrado assisted us poll workers on Election Day with setup by providing enough floor mats, showing us where to get extra chairs and tables we ended up needing. He is easy to work with, happy, approachable, and professional. Thank you Conrado!!

- Mishelle Kennedy, Election Chairperson @ Bartlett HS

Spotlight on Shannon Basner at Lake Hood Elementary!

Ms. Basner works tirelessly to support all students and staff, she greets students daily with a kind word and a smile. She also helps staff in a myriad of ways, from checking on office staff, answering questions from any staff member that asks, to being a trustworthy ear and source. Simply put, Ms. Basner is PURRfectly wonderful to work with.

- Betty TW, Peer

Spotlight on Kelly Liska at Indian Education

Ms. Liska not only brings valuable experience in working with children during the school day, but she also dedicates her time to after-school events. Her attention to detail is exceptional, and she consistently goes above and beyond to support her colleagues, students, and their families. She willingly steps in to help wherever needed, always with a positive attitude. Additionally, her networking skills within the community open up opportunities for her students that they might not have otherwise.Her warmth and compassion provide a sense of safety and reassurance during daily activities and challenging situations.Our staff, students and family always know they can come to her with a problem and receive help, whether it's finding a solution or simply having a listening ear.We deeply appreciate everything she does for our school family and will never be able to thank her enough.
Susitna Elementary thanks you from the bottom of our hearts.

- Caitlynn Adams, I am an ELL tutor for Susitna Elementary

Spotlight on Ms. Nogg at PE/Health at Mears Middle School!

Ms. Nogg is a ray of sunshine for my daughter each day at school! She provides a safe environment for her students and builds trust with them which allows them to learn from her. Ms. Nogg has made school a HAPPY place to be for my student and I could not be more grateful for the energy and love she puts into her work for her students. We love Ms. Nogg!!

- Lindsey Schnell, Parent

Spotlight on Hazel Jean Cadavez at Williwaw Elementary School!

She is a Self Contained Teacher handling 9 ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps, very dedicated, she contributes significantly by providing structured and supportive classroom environment tailored to each students unique needs.. She has empathy with the students with disability. She's also active volunteer right now at the Asian Community. She finished her multi cultural course last year.

- Josie C. Benjamin, Co Teacher

Spotlight on Hazel Jean Cadavez at Williwaw Elementary School!

Hazel works at self-contained class for 4 years handling different disabilities. She is patience and kind to her students and co-workers. She plays a crucial role in creating an inclusive classroom environment by tailoring lessons and different teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities. She also collaborate with different educators and staff to implement IEP's ensuring everyone feel safe, supported and belong.

- Hazel Jean Cadavez, Special Education- Self Contained Class

Spotlight on Principal Mokelke and AP Emily Smith at STrEaM Academy!

Above and beyond today by shoveling sidewalks for student safety after the building's snow removal did the parking lot but not the sidewalks. Shoveling snow is way outside their job description. Their dedication to student safety is commendable.

- Jessica McCalvy, parent, secretary

Spotlight on Tracey Marsh at Whaley!

She has a very difficult role in advocating for change in a very troubled system.

- Patrick Carrico, Math Teacher

Spotlight on Danelle McCarthy at Chinook Elementary IGNITE!

Danelle shares so many enriching ideas with our pod and creates enthusiasm around critical thinking and hands-on learning. We are so lucky to have her as part of our team!

- April Halpern, peer

Spotlight on Brenda Edwards at Tudor Elementary!

Dear Principal Edwards,

You are amazing, and we want to say,
Thank you for guiding us every day!
With your big smile and caring heart,
You make our school a wonderful place to start.

You help us learn and grow so bright,
Always encouraging us to do what’s right.
In our classrooms, you cheer us on,
With your support, we feel so strong!

You make learning fun, and that’s no lie,
From math to art, you always help us try.
When we have troubles, you lend a hand,
You show us how to be a good friend and stand.

So here’s to you, our principal dear,
We’re so thankful that you are here!
You make our school a happy place,
With lots of joy and a friendly face!

Thank you for all you do for me and every student at Tudor Elementary.

- Alex B., ÅÝܽÊÓƵapp

Spotlight on Brittany Cassidy at O'Malley Elementary

Thank you to Ms. Cassidy for reigniting my daughter's interest in math. Going into 4th grade Molly was very anxious about math which made learning harder. Now as a 5th grader she is doing very well in the subject, enjoys it, and most importantly feels confident in her skills. We asked her what changed, and she said "Ms. Cassidy made it fun." So thank you, Ms. Cassidy, for making math fun and teaching in a way that engages the students. My engineer heart is so happy that Molly is no longer stressed out about math and can instead focus on learning.

- Megan Peltier, Parent

Spotlight on Glaiza Maniquiz at Wonder Park Elementary

Glaiza is our resource teacher for kindergarteners, first and second graders. She goes above and beyond to work with her students to ensure they are getting what they need. She has wonderful relationships with her students. She works with them to help achieve their goals and be successful in learning. Glaiza also always helps around the school where she is needed including helping with lunch coverage, bus duty, or behavior support. Wonder Park is lucky to have her as an All Star!

- Lisa Bunag, Assistant Principal

Spotlight on Heather Burgess at Chugiak Elementary

Heather Burgess is an outstanding educator with a big heart for those around her and a strong passion to teach and help some of the neediest of learners; my daughter being one of them. She pours her life into helping children set and achieve goals and goes above and beyond for all students and colleagues around her. She strives to be a better educator everyday and constantly seeks opportunities to be one of the best through professional development, books, videos, and feedback from others. Her efforts are endless and deserving of all of the recognition in the world. Chin’an!

- Jasmine Butler, Parent, peer

Spotlight on Dustin Blevins & the Warehouse Team at Warehouse

Migrant Education Program would like to give huge thanks to Dustin and team members for making relo move smooth. The open communication and customer service is amazing! Highly recommended 5 stars!!!!

- Janet Emmsley,

Spotlight on Ellen Piekarski at Bettye Davis East Freshman Academy!

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Amazing Freshman Academy Counselor

As students, we often hear that high school is a time of growth, learning, and discovery. But what we don't always hear enough about are the people behind the scenes—the guiding hands that help us navigate the ups and downs of this challenging period. One of the most important people for our Freshman Academy Community is our school counselor, Ms. Ellen Piekarski. This letter is a heartfelt thank-you for all the incredible work she does, day in and day out.

The role of a school counselor is far more complex than many realize. It’s not just about scheduling classes or helping students apply to college, though these tasks are important. A great school counselor provides emotional support, guidance, and advice at crucial moments. They help us clarify our goals, manage our stress, and overcome personal and academic challenges. In short, they serve as our advocate, mentor, and confidant when we need it most.
Ms. Pie, you have been all of that and more. You have gone above and beyond in helping students not only succeed but thrive. Your door is always open, whether we’re struggling with academic pressure, personal challenges, or just need someone to talk to. You’ve created a space where we feel safe and heard—a place where we know that no matter what we’re going through, we have someone who genuinely cares.

In a world where students are often expected to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and personal lives, having someone like you in our corner is invaluable. Your presence helps to alleviate the pressures we face and reminds us that we are never alone. You inspire us to not only strive for success but also to take care of ourselves along the way. You teach us the importance of resilience, compassion, and self-awareness—lessons that will serve us well long after we leave these halls.

So, on behalf of all the students whose lives you continue to touch, thank you! We are incredibly lucky to have you as our Freshman Academy Counselor. Your impact on our lives is profound, and we are forever grateful for everything you do. The world could use more people like you—people who care deeply, listen intently, and act with kindness.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, welcome to East, and go TBIRDS!
MS. Wilkins
Freshman Academy Principal

- Janeen Wilkins, Freshman Academy Principal

Spotlight on Allie Burris at Polaris K-12

Chin'an to Alaska Studies teacher Allie Burris of Polaris K-12. Ms. Burris' planning and execution of Alaska Studies curriculum is one of the best examples of cultural relevance and place-based learning I have seen in the district. She has taken great care to include history and culture in her class, providing all students with perspectives from Alaska Native leaders. I am incredibly thankful for her work on this course. When we talk about how to bring Alaska Native culture into our curriculum and standards, this is how it is done well.

- LeeAnn Garrick, Parent & Community Member

Spotlight on Kevin Allen, Tanya Liebes, Wendy Zorea at Kincaid Elementary!

I would like to thank 4th grade teachers at Kincaid Elementary, Kevin Allen and Tanya Liebes. My son is a 4th grader and I was a parent chaperone on their overnight field trip to the Seward Sea Life Center and Exit Glacier hike. This was such a wonderfully organized, fun, and educational trip for students. Thank you so much for all that you do for our 4th grade students! I'd also like to thank Principal Wendy Zorea as she was a chaperone on the overnight trip as well. Kevin, Tanya and Wendy - you make Kincaid Elementary a great place to learn! Thank you for all that you do for our students and community!

- Tracie Ashman, Parent

Spotlight on Joshua W at Maintenance

I am thankful that Joshua came out again to adjust our water flow. I appreciate his follow-through with our antiquated toilet. The children in our classroom are back in business!

- sharon comer-ranaldi, teacher

Spotlight on Ralph Elook at Alaska Strong Program, Indigenous Education East High School

Hello,

I am writing this to express my gratitude to Ralph Elook and the Alaska Strong Family for allowing my family to participate in this project. Each Saturday was very fun filled, with new friends and new memories for my family. We had been wanting to go berry picking, and we got a chance to do that. My husband got to have some very much needed extra time with his girls. This made them/us happy. Fishing was a first for us out here as well, and to for our youngest to catch her first trout was amazing. Everyone had such a great time fishing in the rain. The communication with others in the group was amazing as well. We all laughed and joked with one another like we were all familiar with each other already. Kinship at it’s finest. This program brought great bonding time for families. We also got to go to the zoo before winter so Woo. I sure hope that this project continues, and more families join. Thank you for allowing my family to be part of this 3-week adventure.

Sincerely,

Sarada James-Dean, Parent

- Ron Brown, Principal

Spotlight on Jeremy Blake at King Tech High School

Your hard work and passion for teaching make a difference in the lives of your students. Chin’an!

- Holli, Community Members

Spotlight on Ms Edie at Mears Middle School Migrant Ed

Ms Edie is so AMAZING. Last year was my first year at Mears, and she made me feel so welcomed and always checks in on me throughout the day and gives me snacks and talks to me about my Grades. She is just always there when I need her, whether my day is going good or bad she's always there for me!!! Thank you Ms Edie i appreciate you so much!!! _Alyvia :)

- Alyvia, student

Spotlight on Tyler Lowe at Transportation

Mr. Lowe is a terrific bus driver! He builds a positive rapport with the students and communicates consistently with school staff about bus happenings. Mr. Lowe took on additional riders on a day another bus broke down, helping students get home safely and on time. He is watchful for students doing helpful acts and takes time to report this to make their day! Mr. Lowe models a focus on the positive! Thank you, Mr. Lowe!

-Heather Mildon, Peer

Spotlight on Donna Moats at Wonder Park Elementary

Mrs. Moats has stepped into the role of acting principal at Wonder Park! She has taken our school, staff and students in a positive and supportive direction! Mrs. Moats always has a smile and has affected everyone around her with her enthusiasm and kindness. We are lucky to have her at the helm and look forward to a wonderful school year!

- Lisa Johnson, Teacher

We have an amazing acting Principal here at Wonder Park Elementary.
Mrs. Moats does her role well as a leader.  Her kindness and warm smile
are contagious. Hopefully, she will be our Principal and continue to support our school again next year!!

-Michelle P Sundara

Mrs. Moats is an amazing principal. Her dedication to not only guiding us but also genuinely listening and responding to our needs has not gone unnoticed. The positive changes and progress we’ve experienced are a direct result of your leadership and unwavering support. I hope she will still be our principal next school year. She is very supportive with the students and staff. Thank you and I appreciate you!

- Eunice Athena Manalili

Spotlight on Susan Nesbitt at ASD Educational Center

A big thanks to Susan Nesbitt who effectively taught two special education professional development training sessions that I attended. Both trainings were well organized, relative, and I left with the necessary information I needed to do my job better.

- Kelly Ramey, peer

Spotlight on Cherry Smith at ASD Education Center!

Thank you, Cherry Smith, for the 2-day Professional Development training on how to correctly write an Individual Education Program (IEP). I truly increased my skills on how to effectively write a special education document that accurately reflects a student’s strengths along with addressing their current academic needs.

- Kelly Ramey, peer

Spotlight on Annie Kraemer at Aquarian Charter School

Annie is a true asset to ASD and the Charter School program. She is knowledgeable and always willing to help her fellow charter colleagues. I am so grateful for her kindness and follow-through! Great job, Annie! You are appreciated.

- Sylvia Biondich, peer

Spotlight on Melia Strickler at Bowman Elementary

Thank you to Melia Strickler, Bowman Library's amazing library assistant! She works so hard to make the library an organized place to find just the right book for each student. I could not do my job without her, and I appreciate everything she does to make my job easier each day. Thank you, Melia!

- Erin Binek, Peer

Spotlight on Abel Peca-Medlin at Hanshew Middle School

My daughter is new to the junior high environment, which has caused her additional stress as she is getting accustomed to a lot of changes.

Over several days Abel too the time to help her practice and checked in with her to ensure she mastered the skill. This may seem like a regular and easy thing to work though but having Abel take the time to support her through the process has changed how she feels about going to school.

Thank you to Abel and the team that provides him the opportunity to support my child and others.

- Heather Hardis, Parent