Meet Our February ‘Lakota Gems’

Lakota Local Schools delivered nothing but love to its February "Lakota Gem Award" winners - the teachers, administrators and support staff who bring a sparkle to our schools. Selected from a growing pool of nearly 300 nominations, Lakota’s most precious gems for February include: 

• Jenny Haynes (SEL Teacher, Creekside & Hopewell ECS) – Beacon of Positivity & Sapphire of Student Support Awards
• Sharon George (Teacher, Woodland Elementary) – Beacon of Positivity Award
• Nicholas Parr (Teacher, Liberty Junior) – Gem of Growth & Sapphire of Student Support Awards
• Jordan Rosenfeld (Counselor, Lakota West High School) – Sapphire of Student Support, Gem of Growth & A Cut Above the Rest Awards
• Andrew Wheatley (Director of 7-12 Curriculum) – Sapphire of Student Support Award
• Christine Wurzbacher (Office Manager, Buildings & Grounds) - A Cut Above the Rest Award

Each “gem” was celebrated this week with a surprise recognition during their workday and surrounded by their students, colleagues and those who nominated them. Be on the lookout for this month's Lakota Gem Award video to see their reactions. 

---

The Facets of Our February Gems

Jenny Haynes: Early Childhood School Honoree (Grades K-2)

Nominated for not just one, but two gems - the "Sapphire of Student Support" and the "Beacon of Positivity" - Creekside and Hopewell ECS SEL teacher Jenny Haynes was celebrated for her ability to create a safe, welcoming environment where every student feels heard and valued.

Jenny's dedication extends beyond students to staff too, enhancing the SEL curriculum and fostering meaningful relationships. Her impact is obviously profound, with students eagerly awaiting her return when she is away working with her second school.

As one nomination beautifully states, "Jenny is a constant bright light that shines on EVERY student and staff member that she interacts with." Another one shared this: "She has shifted the culture of our building to an even brighter environment of love and care for all. We are SO thankful to have her on our team."

---

Sharon George: Elementary School Honoree (Grades 3-6) 

Woodland Elementary third grade teacher Sharon George was called a "Beacon of Positivity" for the positive spin she puts on every situation. She was applauded for her efforts to always help others, students and staff alike, to grow, especially when it comes to welcoming new staff.  

Her nomination recognized her efforts to organize Woodland's first "Passport of Nations," stating that Sharon lives for love and inclusion. 

"She always finds ways to bring light to others and encourages others to do their best!" read her nomination. 

 

---

Nicholas Parr: Junior School Honoree (Grades 7-8)

A first year teacher who also stepped up lead the math department at Liberty Junior School, Nicholas Parr was awarded by the "Gem of Growth" and "Sapphire of Student Support" gems.

He was described as a dedicated and supportive educator who generously shares his resources and time with colleagues, attends various school events and is beloved by students. His positive attitude and investment in his students make him an exceptional role model.

As one parent highlights, "Mr. Parr is a fabulous teacher. He is invested in his students and shows up for them every day with a positive attitude. I couldn't ask for a better role model. My daughter loves his class. Thank you so much for bringing as much joy as possible to algebra!"

---

Jordan Rosenfeld: High School Honoree (Grades 9-12)

Lakota West High School counselor Jordan Rosenfeld is a truly multi-faceted gem, earning three different awards: "Gem of Growth," "Sapphire of Student Support" and "A Cut Above the Rest." 

Also the department chair for West's counseling team, Jordan's positive attitude and support foster a great work environment for his team. He collaborates with administration, supports initiatives and provides valuable feedback to his colleagues.

Jordan was applauded for empowering his team, promoting a comprehensive counseling program, and building positive rapport. He also excels with students, advocating for them and celebrating their successes. As one nomination states, "Jordan believes in the 'getting the job done mentality'." His relentless effort, work ethic and servant heart elevate everyone around him. Jordan exemplifies authenticity, investments and relationships, making him the 'real deal' at Lakota West."

---

Christine Wurzbacher: Lakota Service Center Honoree

Office manager for Lakota's buildings and grounds department, Christine Wurzbacher was nominated by five of her colleagues for the "A Cut" Above the Rest" gem. 

Christine was recognized for always going above and beyond her official duties to lessen the load of her colleagues. She was applauded for being organized and a shining light of positivity in every situation thrown her way.  

"No matter the time of day, the person, department, etc., she is always willing to do everything she can to help out and make Lakota a better place to work," wrote one of her colleagues.  

---

Andrew Wheatley: Central Office Honoree

Nominated by a parent for the "Sapphire of Student Support" gem, Lakota's director of 7-12 curriculum was recognized for his exceptional and personalized support of students. 

Andrew was recognized for being a strong supporter of students and collaborating well with parents. His nomination called attention to the informative seminars on CCP and AP options that he hosts, making complex processes easier to understand for parents. 

He was celebrated for going above and beyond to guide individual students through unique situations, ensuring they achieve their goals. "I am grateful that we have such a knowledgeable resource like Mr Wheatley to help all the students!

---

About the Lakota Gem Award

"Every single position here at Lakota is important and part of our district's success story," said Lakota Superintendent Dr. Ashley Whitely. "Through the 'Lakota Gem Award,' it is my goal to celebrate staff whose range of responsibilities and areas of expertise are varied, but whose qualities are strikingly similar. Things like teamwork, innovation, positivity, growth and a student-centered mentality drive excellence and span all roles in public education."

To qualify, nominees should reflect any one of these gem-like facets: 

• Sapphire of Student Support - Values strong relationships and the importance of meeting students' individual academic, social and emotional needs.
• Beacon of Positivity - Radiates positive energy and promotes a welcoming culture that celebrates and respects differences. 
• Brilliant Innovator - Uses creativity to create dynamic experiences for students and staff, solve problems and allocate available resources wisely.
• Polished Team Player - Embraces the power of community and collaboration to lift one another up and work together for the best possible results.
• Gem of Growth - A lifelong learner who values feedback and has a growth mindset for continuous professional improvement.
• A Cut Above the Rest - Shines in their area of expertise and goes above and beyond in their daily work.

Every month, Lakota's "gems" are celebrated for ONE of these award categories, receiving a unique gem pin that corresponds with the facet for which they were selected. Not every category will be awarded each month. Likewise, the same category may be awarded to multiple staff any given month.

Over time, staff may be awarded multiple gems to celebrate the different qualities they exhibit through their work at Lakota. An individual will not be eligible, however, to receive the same gem twice.

The District aims to recognize a new group of "Lakota Gem Award" recipients on a monthly basis who represent each grade band (K-2, 3-6, 7-8 and 9-12), as well as Central Office and the Service Center. These individuals are determined by a representative selection committee, surprised during the workday and spotlighted through district communication channels. 

Staff members can be nominated at any time using the form linked below. New nominations will be pulled on the first day of each month in consideration for the previous month's awards. All nominations will carry over from month to month and will be considered for the rest of the current school year without needing to re-submit. At the start of each new school year, the nominee pool will be reset. 

Nominate a staff member for a Lakota Gem Award. Nominees will be pulled on the last day of February, with the March recipients announced mid-month.