Pam Cook, Special Ed Paraprofessional in Compass Academy at Irving Dual Language Elementary School.
"Mrs. Cook has dedicated decades to the Sioux City School District, especially in the behavior support classroom. Mrs. Cook is generous, kind, and seeks to do her best for our students. Mrs. Cook, thank you for your work and advocacy for our students. You will be missed!"
Gena Loft, a first-grade teacher at Morningside STEM Elementary School.
"Gena goes above and beyond for her team members nearly every day by providing helpful copies for others and collaborative insight. She will also share any resources that support the team and the building. She truly is the definition of a team player. What we appreciate most of all is we know that when we talk with Gena, she is always the 'solution finding' process we need."
Kindall Todd, a teacher at East High School.
"Kindall worked very hard to get everything organized for ISASP testing. She also worked hard to ensure all the students were supported while taking the ISASP testing. Kindall coordinated teachers and helpers to make the test run as smoothly as possible, despite some technology hiccups. It is not an easy task, but she has ROCKED it. Thank you for all you do for our staff and students!"
Jenna Hermelbracht, a fourth-grade teacher at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.
"Every day, Jenna arrives with a warm smile and an energy that brightens the entire school. Jenna is not only a joy to work with, but she is also a cornerstone of the fourth-grade team.
Her dedication to her students and her colleagues is unmatched. Jenna consistently goes above and beyond, offering support, guidance, and encouragement whenever it's needed. She leads by example, embodying professionalism, compassion, and a strong commitment to excellence.
What truly distinguishes Jenna is her ability to turn challenges into growth opportunities. She approaches difficult situations with a calm and constructive mindset, transforming negativity into motivation. Her positive influence fosters a more collaborative and uplifting environment for everyone around her.
Thank you, Jenna, for your incredible contributions, your kindness, and your unwavering spirit. You inspire us all, and we’re so grateful to have you on our team!
Mary Mason, a nurse at West High School.
"Ms. Mason takes care of our students and staff, alike. She is kind and caring, and is an active member of our emergency response and safety committee seams as well. She is a wonderful leader to new nurses as well. Thank you for maintaining students’ medical records and all you do! Congratulations, Ms. Mason, for being West, Engaged, Safe, and Trustworthy!"
Hannah Guffy, an office manager at Leeds Elementary School.
"Ms. Guffy is the heartbeat of our building. From the moment the day begins until the last student leaves, she keeps our school running smoothly with unmatched dedication and care.
Ms. Guffy consistently goes above and beyond to support students, staff, and families. Whether she’s managing schedules, solving problems on the fly, or offering a warm smile, welcome or laugh with anyone who walks through our doors, she does it all with kindness and grace. Her attention to detail and ability to juggle a million moving parts are just a few of the reasons we are so fortunate to have her at the heart of our school.
Thank you, Ms. Guffy, for all that you do. Your commitment to excellence and your steady presence make a lasting impact on everyone at Leeds."
Staff at Riverside Elementary nominated the Food Service team with the following submissions:
"Our lunch staff are great! They consistently go above and beyond to create a welcoming, efficient, and caring environment. They have implemented a reward system in the lunchroom, and our kids seem to love it! Our lunch staff’s positive attitudes, strong work ethics, and genuine care for students make a daily impact on our building. They are a vital part of our school community and deserve this recognition." - Kaitlyn Marsh
Our food service team — Jonni, Melissa, Glenda, Jenni, Natalia, and Dave — are truly amazing, and we are so fortunate to have them here at Riverside. While they consistently meet the daily expectations of their roles, what truly sets them apart is the way they connect with our students. They take the time to know each student personally, building meaningful relationships that make students feel seen, valued, and comfortable reaching out with any concerns. Through their efforts, they’ve cultivated a lunchtime environment that students genuinely look forward to. Not only have they established a positive and clear reward system around lunchroom expectations, but they’ve also introduced fun activities like arts, games, crafts, and toys for students to enjoy after eating. These thoughtful additions have made a noticeable difference, encouraging students to follow expectations and creating a welcoming space for everyone Because of this incredible team, our lunchtime culture has become a highlight of the day for both students and staff. They’ve made such a positive impact that I genuinely enjoy doing lunchroom duty — and that’s all thanks to them! - Courtney Pottebaum
"Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. We appreciate your continued patience with the students during lunch, and thank you for creating a positive environment for them. Our staff truly appreciates the initiative you've taken to encourage positive behavior at lunch. Thank you bunches for all the lunches!" - Felicity Brekke
Angela Conway and Cinthia Hernandez, a Behavior and Attendance Specialist at Perry Creek Elementary School.
"Angela and Cinthia have transitioned into new roles during this school year. They work collaboratively with attendance and behaviors. These ladies are willing to support teachers and students at any time. Angela and Cinthia are vital to making daily school routines successful through all their hard work and dedication. We are lucky to have them at Perry Creek!"
Shelly Sadler, a third-grade teacher at Hunt A+ Arts Elementary School.
"Ms. Sadler has worked tirelessly every day to create a positive and supportive learning environment for her students. Her dedication, high expectations, and unwavering commitment to student success have made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to be in her classroom.
She is not only a respected educator but also an outstanding role model for both students and colleagues. We are incredibly lucky to have had Ms. Sadler as part of the Hunt family.
As she enters retirement, we celebrate her remarkable career and wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter. Thank you, Ms. Sadler, for everything!"
Brenda McDonald, a Title teacher at Hunt A+ Arts Elementary School.
"Ms. McDonald dedicated over 30 years to meeting the diverse needs of her students, especially in her role as an intervention teacher. With patience, insight, and unwavering commitment, she helped countless students overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Her ability to connect with learners and tailor support to each individual made a lasting difference in so many lives.
Beyond her professional excellence, Ms. McDonald is a truly wonderful person—kind, compassionate, and always willing to lend a helping hand. Her presence in our school community will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the success stories of the students she guided and the colleagues she inspired. We wish her the very best in her well-earned retirement!"
Kayla Murphy, a special education reading co-teacher at North Middle School.
"Kayla has gone above and beyond for our student council throughout the year. During Staff Appreciation Week, she also had the student council members help support and recognize all of our staff. Recently she created a Professional Learning Community (PLC) Reflection poster for our professional development with individual post cards to capture each reflection/ headline. Thank you, Kayla. Your work does not go unnoticed."
Mary McGuire, a first-grade teacher at Spalding Park Environmental Sciences Elementary School.
"Mary is the 'go-to person' in our hallway. If you have a question or need something, she will take the time to help you solve a problem, find an activity, help organize an event, plan something special, or give you an idea. She has the kind of personality that is always willing to give it a try. She encourages me to take those leaps when I may have second thoughts. Mary is also the person who will have that one random item you forgot at home, and she is willing to let you use it. She has saved the day for me more than once. Mary's years of experience, in grades K-2, helps our team think of our 1st grade students in a broader scope. She helps us remember kindergarten expectations as well as thinking about what our students will need as second graders. Mary is a dedicated teacher putting hours into her planning and preparation. She is always looking for ways to reach all learners."
Michelle Modlin, a building assistant at East Middle School.
"Mrs. Modlin truly deserves to be recognized as the Staff Member of the Month. She is incredibly kind and consistently provides reinforcement for students who accomplish their goals. She emphasizes the importance of following directions and being respectful, and her kindness extends to both students and staff alike. She diligently helps keep the student center running smoothly, communicates information about EMS events, and keeps our Facebook page up-to-date with all of the great things going on at our school. Furthermore, she is always willing to assist at a moment’s notice when needed. She has been a favorite staff member for many students since sixth grade because she is always there to lend an ear and ensures students feel cared about and safe. Mrs. Modlin's contributions to our school community are invaluable."
Frank Peck, an instructional assistant at West Middle School.
"Mr. Peck’s work in the Solutions Room has been instrumental in supporting students through restorative conversations, fostering personal growth, and helping learners develop critical skills for success. Through his guidance, students are learning to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience, reinforcing our commitment to a nurturing and inclusive school environment.
Beyond his work with students, Mr. Peck has provided exceptional assistance in managing attendance procedures. Mr. Peck brings an unwavering positivity and a willingness to step in wherever he is needed. His enthusiasm and dedication shine in every task he undertakes, and his presence has made a meaningful difference in the daily lives of both students and staff. His commitment to West Middle School exemplifies teamwork, professionalism, and a genuine passion for student success."
Tina Brennan, Elementary Literacy Curriculum Facilitator at the Educational Service Center.
"Tina has been instrumental in leading the District's implementation of elementary literacy practices and utilizing our new resources. She meets regularly with Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in buildings, leads professional development that is engaging, is responsive to concerns and ideas, and provides ongoing communication with staff. Tina is fulfilling our district mission through all she does to promote believing in our staff and students, achieving higher, and succeeding as effective educators and literate students. Thank you, Tina, for your work on behalf of our students and staff! "