Jamie Duncan, a secretary at Loess Hills Computer Programming Elementary School
"Jamie goes above and beyond her job responsibilities every single day and is truly the anchor of our school.
Although her official role already comes with more than enough work, she consistently steps in to help wherever she is needed. She supports students with compassion, often taking on nursing duties, comforting children in the office, and assisting with situations that go far beyond her job description. She also handles countless parent phone calls, reaches out to families, and ensures new students are enrolled quickly and smoothly—even as we welcome new faces into our building almost daily.
Her dedication extends well beyond the school day. She makes calls after hours when students are not picked up, and has even stayed late to make sure kids are taken care of. She also coordinates with other schools to obtain records, resolves system issues, and finds coverage for staff absences, ensuring our school continues to run smoothly no matter the circumstances.
She is the person so many of us turn to when we need help, and she always shows up with patience, problem-solving, and a caring spirit. Our school could not function as well as it does without her. She is truly deserving of Staff Member of the Month.
Thank you, Mrs. Duncan! We are so appreciative of everything you do!"
Nicole McGlauflin, a Fifth-Grade Teacher at Leeds Elementary School
A student shared, “Mrs. McGlauflin is always willing to help my classmates and I. She is welcoming, very patient, puts a smile on our faces every day, and makes learning fun. She has been very encouraging in the classroom, always tries to motivate us to be independent thinkers, and teaches us different strategies for the subjects we are working on.”
This nomination truly reflects who Mrs. McGlauflin is each day. She builds strong relationships with her students, creating a classroom environment that is both supportive and inspiring. Her dedication to fostering independence and critical thinking shines through in her instruction and interactions. She consistently goes above and beyond to meet students’ individual needs, celebrates their successes, and models what it means to love learning.
We are so grateful for the positive energy, professionalism, and heart Mrs. McGlauflin brings to our school community each day.
Mike Winklepleck, a Teacher and Coach at East High School
"Each fall brings renewed excitement for East High football, and this past season was one for the history books--the program's greatest success in over 20 years. At the heart of it all is Coach Mike Winklepleck, whose tireless leadership has elevated the Black Raider program into one of the most respected in 5A football.
Balancing a busy family life with four active children, Coach Wink still finds time to support all East High activities. He encourages multi-sport participation, attends countless events, and is always ready to help.
Under his Guidance, East went 9-2, hosted its first playoff game since the early 2000s, and mounted an incredible comeback against the top-ranked team in the quarterfinals. But his greatest impact is in shaping character and community. Congratulations, Coach Winklepleck!"
Matthew O'Kane, an Art Teacher at West High School
Mr. O'Kane's students said the following about him, "He is always helping out and a good role model, he makes class fun and engaging, and he listens to his students." Congratulations, Mr. O'Kane!
Lisa DeRocher, a nurse at North Middle School
"Lisa cares about the students and builds connections with them. She responds to new challenges with a positive attitude. She is a great co-worker and important member of our team. Thank you, Lisa, for what you do for the students and staff at NMS!"
Jessica Bunch, a Foundations Special Education Teacher at Unity Elementary School
"Jessica has many outstanding characteristics that have been identified by other staff members including, helpful, supportive, responsible and a team member that you can always count on. Jessica is a very activity member of Team Unity. Jessica is part of the Building Emergency Response team (BERT) team, the Building Leadership Team) BLT-B team, and part of the District leadership team. Congratulations, Jessica!"
Kayla Merryman, a Special Education Instructional Assistant at Unity Elementary School
"Kayla is an awesome member of Team Unity and her presence in the building is always positive. Kayla is a hard working paraprofessional who enjoys working with students, and is always on task helping students to achieve. Kayla is highly flexible, and while her duties often change from day to day, her attitude never does. She makes a difference in the lives of students every day."
Michelle Hoch, a Counselor at the Sioux City Career Academy
"Mrs. Hoch begins and ends her day with a smile for staff and students. She is always ready with a 'Good morning!' for everyone. She works tirelessly to promote student success through Career and Technical pathways, college coursework, and career planning. She coordinates the scholarships for students and maintains our online Career and Academic Planning system for all secondary students. We are so lucky to work with Mrs. Hoch, and students are lucky to have her on their team!"
Mary Duax, a Resource Teacher at Perry Creek Elementary School
"Mary continually demonstrates exceptional dedication and a heart for students and staff alike. We are especially thankful for her knowledge and willingness to jump in where and when needed.
Her positive attitude is felt across the building as she approaches her work with professionalism, grace, and a willingness to help. She goes above and beyond in supporting the onboarding of students transitioning to other schools, making sure they feel welcomed, understood, and set up for success.
Mary consistently goes the extra mile for her students and is always willing to lend a hand to her coworkers. Her commitment, collaboration, and kindness make a meaningful difference every day. Thank you, Mary, for everything you do for Perry Creek Elementary! We are so grateful for you."
Jill Lyman, a Digital Music Production Teacher at East Middle School
"Jill Lyman goes above and beyond every day to make our school a brighter, more connected community-both in the classroom and out of the classroom. She captures the heart of our school through photography. She always manages to find and preserve the joy, liveliness, and spirit of our students and staff. Beyond the camera, Mrs. Lyman is an inspiring educator who builds strong relationships with students, encouraging creativity and models kindness in everything she does. She gives her own time to lead after-school activities, creating opportunities for our students to learn, grow and connect beyond the regular school day. Keep up the great work!"
Bradi Harvey, a Second Grade Teacher at Hunt A+ Arts Elementary School
"Ms. Harvey is an essential member of the our building leadership team, helps lead her professional learning community with confidence and clarity, and consistently shows school pride to both students and staff. She is a strong, dedicated teacher on the second grade team who always puts students first. We are grateful for her commitment to our school community and proud to recognize her as our Staff Member of the Month."
Jeanna Foxworthy, a Special Education Instructional Assistant at Morningside STEM Elementary School
"Jeanna is always a smiling face in the hallway and always has positive interactions with staff and students. She goes above and beyond to assist her student as well as those around her. She is always putting in extra work to help lighten to load for her classroom teacher and case manager. Jeanna is a true asset to Morningside."
Kayla Pistello, a Fourth-Grade Teacher at Bryant Elementary School
"I’d like to nominate Kayla Pistello as Staff Member of the Month for her incredible dedication, positivity, and support. Kayla keeps our PLCs organized with clear agendas each week, but her impact goes far beyond that. She is always ready to share creative ideas, plan with intention, and support her colleagues both inside and outside of school. Her genuine care for students and staff shines through in every interaction and makes her an invaluable part of our Bear Community. Kayla’s positive energy, dedication, and constant encouragement make her a true standout, and she deserves to be recognized for all the love and support she so freely gives to others!" - Sara Prentson
Crystal Shepherd Coyle, a Fifth-Grade Teacher at Riverside Elementary School
"Crystal Shepherd Coyle is known for truly caring about every student she teaches. She takes the time to build meaningful relationships, understand individual needs, and create a classroom environment where every learner feels valued and supported. Crystal does not hesitate to try new strategies with her students to allow growth. In addition to their impact in the classroom, Crystal continues to support the growth of her student teacher and actively contributes as a member of our leadership team—always modeling reflection, collaboration, and a growth mindset. We are grateful for Crystal's passion, creativity, and commitment to students."
Pat Toben, a Band Teacher at Irving Elementary School
"We are very thankful that Mrs. Toben has joined the elementary band team and that our students get to learn from her. Since the start of the year, Mrs. Toben has worked on several grants to increase the number of band instruments at Irving. As of this month, Mrs. Toben, has secured close to $10,000 for our school. We are grateful the your hard work is benefiting our students. Thank you very much!"
Destiny Harker, an Office Assistant at West Middle School
"We are proud to recognize Destiny as our November Staff Member of the Month. Although new to our office, Destiny has already proven to be an incredible asset to our team. She is dependable, consistent in her work, and approaches every task with professionalism and enthusiasm. Destiny’s attention to detail and willingness to take initiative make her a true go-getter. She learns quickly, adapts easily, and brings a positive energy that uplifts everyone around her. Her interactions with parents, students, and coworkers are marked by patience, understanding, and kindness, creating a welcoming environment for all who enter our office. We deeply appreciate Destiny’s hard work, helpful nature, and commitment to excellence. She exemplifies the qualities we value most, and we are thrilled to have her as part of our team."
Karen Bauer, a Title Reading Teacher at Spalding Park Environmental Sciences Elementary School
"Karen has been there to answer any questions I have. She is an amazing support for me and navigating me through some new situations. Her calm, positive way makes everyone feel at ease. She is willing to do the extras for students and staff. She is truly a wonderful colleague."
Hollie Copple, a Help Desk Technician at the Educational Service Center
In Hollie's nomination, her peer said, "Hollie did an amazing job supporting new staff onboarding with technology needs. She always has a smile on her face, and she will be sure to follow up in a timely manner if she doesn't know the answer. She is a dedicated member of the ESC team and her efforts are appreciated."
Honoring Brien O'Brien, a Bus Driver in the Transportation Department
"Brien was a driver for us for four years. He enjoyed the students on his route and felt as though they were 'family.' He did not like to see any of them missing the needed hats and gloves that make winter bearable. Unfortunately, Brien passed away this fall and wasn't able to provide the items himself. He did make a request of his friends and family to honor him, in his passing, with gifts of the items for the children that meant so much to him. He will be greatly missed and we appreciate all he did for our department."
Taylor Crippen, a Second Grade Teacher at Liberty Elementary School
"Mrs. Crippen is extremely helpful and kind. She serves on several committees and brings a positive attitude and value to each. She is extremely organized and thorough in all that she does. She is not only dedicated to the success of the students in her classroom but also to the success of the entire building. Mrs. Crippen is always offering a helping hand to anyone who needs one. Her attention to detail is second to none. We are lucky to have her 'Making it Happen!' at Liberty!"