FUSD Classified Employee of the Year: Debbie Tavernese, Poston Butte High School, Parapro with ESL and Triage Programs
Quote: "I get real satisfaction working with the students. I find it a challenge, and it's so rewarding to see their accomplishments."
Maintenance Employee of the Year: Rich DeVries
Quote: "Working in Education is about one thing, plain and simple - the kids! On a bad day, walk into a school, run into a kid, and you'll find they renew your spirit"
Transportation Employee of the Year: Fern Triniman
Quote: "It's all about the children, who need someone to be good to them regardless of how their day went. The children are our future. We need to make them our priority."
K-2 Teacher of the Year: Kolina Romney, Magma Ranch
Quote: "There is an old saying that 'If you choose something you love to do, you will never work a day in your life.' I see teaching as a calling for me. What I love most about teaching is seeing the growth in each of the children day by day."
3-5 Teacher of the Year: Kim Farless, Skyline Ranch
Quote: "I teach because I love the kids. I love to see their excitement when the light bulb goes off and they're learning new things."
6-8 Teacher of the Year: Matt Anderson, Copper Basin
Quote: "It's all about working with kids, and being able to get to know them better, and making connections with them."
High School Teacher of the Year: Annie Valencia, Florence High School
Quote: "It's all about relationships. It's about knowing that you've reached kids, and it's about making connections with them. That's why I love teaching."
Electives/Specials Teacher of the Year: Chelsea Graham, Walker Butte
Quote: "My passion for teaching is about two things: The love of the students, and the passion that I have for music education."
Special Education Teacher of the Year: Amy Levinton, Anthem
Quote: "The absolute best part of teaching for me is when my students begin to believe in themselves as much as I believe in them."
FUSD Teacher of the Year: Yvona Campbell, SuMMit
Quote: "Teaching students with exceptional needs has become my quest, to demonstrate to the students and their caretakers that when provided instruction in an appropriate setting, students are capable of the same academic accomplishments as their typical counterparts."
What do they have in common?
- Great Content Knowledge
- Great Technique - Great Skill
- Ability to Connect
Excerpt from Dr. Nine's Speech:
"It has come to my attention that last spring a group of administrators were meeting in Cochise County and the discussion centered on school and district improvement - they focused on FUSD - What have they done that all of a sudden they are doing great in everything - How can that happen? I know the answer - YOU ROCK! You rock because you are living our Vision, putting KIDS FIRST. I'm an old dog, and like many others, I've noticed that when we focus on serving others and put yourself second, two things happen: Honors roll in and your life gets better for those you serve... I am unbelievably proud to be your superintendent. Thank you!"
