Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School -

Kudos to Dave Jensen, a food service team member in the District.

A grateful Goodwill employee said the following about Dave, "We would like to extend a heartfelt shout-out to Dave, who delivers lunches to Goodwill day habilitation program, for his genuine kindness and warm friendliness that brightens our building every time he visits. The faces of the people we serve light up with excitement when he walks through the door. Dave is always eager to assist with our questions and concerns, offering thoughtful solutions that truly make a difference in their day. His cheerful presence creates an uplifting atmosphere, and his absence is deeply felt whenever he’s not around. Thank you, Dave, for being our incredible go-to guy!"

Kudos to Kristie Monk, a sixth-grade teacher at North Middle School.

A grateful colleague said the following about Kristie, "Kristie consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and her colleagues. She is proactive in anticipating needs, solution-oriented when challenges arise, and always ready to help anyone in need. She brings a positive attitude each day and doesn't leave until the job is done. Her dedication and teamwork make her an invaluable asset to the students and staff at North Middle School. Thank you for everything you do, Kristie!"

Kudos to Jay Nelson, a bus driver.

A grateful parent said the following about Jay, "Jay Nelson has made my child feel safe and seen. She absolutely loves riding the bus and appreciates that the driver knows who she is and has taken the time to build relationships with her and the other students. It may not seem like much to some, but to know my child is safe and taken care of while on the bus is something I will forever appreciate. Thank you, Jay!"

Kudos to Chris Hanson, a choir teacher at East Middle School.

A few grateful students shared the following about Chris:

"He brings a smile to everyone's face, and he is a great teacher. He will stop if he notices you're struggling, and he will not stop until he sees a smile on your face!"

"During the 23-24 school year, I joined the choir. Mr. Hanson made me feel extremely welcome in the class. He taught us in an engaging and fun way. Everyone was able to have fun while still learning. Thanks to his teaching, our concert went wonderfully. He's always giving back to the students. He spent time with the Spartan Choir after school to teach them songs. During the honor choir season, he helped those in it before school as well. Although he has not worked here long, he has been a help and a safe space to many. He's willing to listen to a student's concerns and figure out a solution together. Mr. Hanson loves to believe that everyone has potential and is on an equal level. He treats everyone the same, which provides an even safer space for everyone. Without Mr. Hanson, I'm not sure what choir would be like. Everyone there is welcomed with open arms. Kudos to Mr. Hanson for going above and beyond!"

"Chris Hanson is above all one of the kindest people I have EVER met. Not only is he hilarious, but he also goes above and beyond for any student in his care. In my first year at East Middle School (24-25), I had no clue what to do. As soon as I walked through the choir room doors, Chris made it clear to every student that we would figure it out together, as it was his first year at our school, too. He has been completely instrumental (Pun intended) in the process of my own growth as a musician and as a person, while teaching lessons and perspectives that I hadn't ever noticed before. He has always been there in times of need, and he is someone that I can ALWAYS count on to be there when words have failed. I will forever be thankful for his efforts because without him, I wouldn't be where I am today."

Kudos to Maggie Elgert, a high school math curriculum facilitator.

A grateful colleague shared the following about Maggie:

"I wanted to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for all that Maggie Elgert does for us. She plays such an important role in our curriculum implementation and has become an invaluable part of our team. Honestly, I am not sure what the math department would do without her. Maggie consistently answers every question promptly and thoughtfully. She supports us like no one else; encouraging us, challenging us, and helping us grow into more reflective and effective educators. She asks the hard questions that make us think critically about our practice, and she’s always willing to communicate our concerns and frustrations to the curriculum publishers on our behalf. Maggie makes all our professional development worth our time. She approaches professional development as an example to all of us math teachers of what district expectations are of how we are to teach in our classrooms. Through her examples we gain strategies we can take directly back into our classrooms. She walks the walk every single time! We are up and moving and engaged. Her dedication to helping all math teachers work together using a common resource is truly inspiring. I have never worked with anyone in a support role who goes above and beyond the way Maggie does. Her commitment, professionalism, and care make such a difference every single day. Maggie is truly appreciated and an inspiration. The Sioux City Community School District is lucky to have her!"

Kudos to Leslie Heying, Director of Communications.

Shijan Oehlerking shared the following about Leslie:

"This kudos goes to Leslie Heying! A big thank you for being so quick to jump in and provide support. Your ability to make talking points easily accessible to teachers is incredibly helpful, and your communication is consistently clear, timely, and effective. Your work truly makes a difference and is deeply appreciated!"

Kudos to Lynn Brown, an Instructional Assistant at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School.

A grateful colleague shared the following about Lynn:

"Lynn Brown consistently goes above and beyond, showing a willingness to help wherever she's needed. Whether it's assisting staff members or supporting students. Her kindness and caring nature make a difference. She is dependable, approachable, and always puts others first."

A grateful colleague shared the following about Lynn:

"Lynn Brown consistently goes above and beyond, showing a willingness to help wherever she's needed. Whether it's assisting staff members or supporting students. Her kindness and caring nature make a difference. She is dependable, approachable, and always puts others first."

Kudos to Emily Fahrendholz, a Social Studies Teacher at East Middle School.