The following employees were selected to receive the October Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the October 2024 school board meeting.
Five employees are recognized between October and June of each school year. Nominations are open to staff, students, parents and community members. Nominees are selected for recognition by a committee of their peers.
In addition to awardees chosen by the peer nomination and Excellence Awards committee voting process, the Board of Directors may recognize recipients who have been nominated by the Superintendent’s Cabinet for demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to VPS students and their families.
Jennifer Beeks
Family-Community Resource Center (FCRC) Coordinator at Minnehaha Elementary
Jennifer Beeks, the FCRC Coordinator at Minnehaha Elementary, is a beacon of compassion and support for our students and their families. With unwavering dedication, Jennifer works tirelessly to ensure each student’s basic needs are met. From providing food and clothing to connecting families with essential resources, Jennifer’s commitment is exceptional. As her nominator shares, “Mrs. Beeks has helped us in so many ways. She has been amazing!” Her warmth, empathy, and determination create a safe and supportive environment where families feel valued and empowered. Minnehaha is fortunate to have such a remarkable FCRC coordinator who makes a lasting difference in the lives of our students and families. Thank you, Jennifer.
Nick Hernandez
Job Facilitator at Gateway to Adult Transitional Education (GATE)
Nick Hernandez, Job Facilitator at GATE, is an integral part of the GATE Program’s mission to support students in meeting their post-grad employment goals. With his exceptional interpersonal skills and knowledge of employment options, Nick expertly connects students with opportunities that align with their skills, interests, and career goals. On top of maintaining and growing worksite options, coordinating transportation, and conducting mock-interviews, Nick also produces high-quality video resumes for each GATE graduate to capture each student’s unique journey. As one nominator shares, “[Nick] doesn’t just create employment pathways; he nurtures students’ meaningful engagement in their futures.” Thank you, Nick.
Melissa Kurta
Paraeducator at Roosevelt Elementary
Melissa Kurta, a paraeducator at Roosevelt Elementary, has shown an unwavering dedication to her students that goes far beyond the ordinary. Her empathy and dedication are truly inspiring, and her selfless acts of kindness, like bringing in cookies during a difficult transition, demonstrate her unwavering commitment to our students’ well-being. As one former student shared, “I’m really sad I had to go to middle school and leave Roosevelt because she felt like my 2nd mom. I want her to notice how good of a job she’s doing.” Thank you, Melissa.
Summer Peterson
Behavior Systems Specialist at Marshall Elementary
Summer Peterson, Behavior Systems Specialist at Marshall Elementary, is a ray of sunshine in the classroom. With her infectious personality and positive attitude, Summer has a unique ability to connect with students and staff alike. Summer was nominated by several former students, all of whom praised her kindness, patience, and individualized approach to teaching. A fellow teacher shares, “She has the perfect balance of holding students accountable, makes sure they know they are worthy and loved and finds a way to relate to them with her whip-smart humor.” Thank you, Summer.
Spencer Williams
Associate Principal at Hudson’s Bay High School (currently at Thomas Jefferson Middle School)
Transitioning to a new school can be a daunting experience for students, but starting this new chapter is made easier with support from dedicated staff like Spencer Williams. As an Associate Principal at Hudson’s Bay High School, Spencer went above and beyond to make ninth graders feel at home by fostering a sense of belonging through personal connections. His small but meaningful gestures, like fist bumps and personalized greetings, create a welcoming and supportive environment where students feel valued and encouraged. Spencer is an unwavering advocate for students and staff alike, and is an invaluable asset to any school community. Thank you, Spencer.