Congratulations to Mountain Sky Junior High students Brytavia E. and Jaidyn M. for being state winners of the Arizona Society of General Music Original Composit...ion Contest! Their teacher, Mrs. Dukeshier, suggested that Brytavia and Jaidyn enter into Composition Contest and both students exceeded her expectations! Visit Mrs. Dukeshier’s class site to hear Jaidyn’s song “My Ocean” and Brytavia’s song “Hope.” Amazing job, #WESDFamily! http://bit.ly/2oA2YhZ

We would like to conclude our February Employee of the Month recognitions by congratulating Roger Young-Ham, routing supervisor for WESD Transportation! Roger w...as nominated by colleagues who admire his dedication to the Transportation team. Roger’s top priority is student safety and he ensures that every student has a positive and safe experience while riding the bus to and from school. Roger also understands the importance of transporting students safely to school in a timely manner. Because of this, he considers all feedback regarding bus routes and bus stops from various stakeholders in order to continually improve transportation for WESD students. Through this feedback, Roger was able to change bus stops and mirror routes so that students have the same bus number and driver. He also brings solutions to the Special Education and Transportation Department meetings, as well as provides research data to the Superintendent’s leadership team. Roger’s colleagues describe him as a dedicated, efficient thinker. #WESDFamily

Congratulations to Michelle Reid, sixth grade teacher at Sunburst Elementary, for being recognized as a #WESD February Employee of the Month! Michelle was nomin...ated by colleagues who say she is instrumental in mentoring new teachers. She mentors and encourages everyone who is new to the profession to set and define goals that will help them be successful. As a teacher, Michelle plans rigorous work that will equip her students for the future. She demonstrates leadership skills when collaborating with colleagues and plans stimulating activities. Michelle works hard to find new materials, or even creates her own to meet educational standards. Her coworkers say that her students are her pride and joy and she strives to meet their needs at all levels. Michelle has a natural gift for helping others and she shares her resources so that every teacher on campus can be successful. Coworkers describe Michelle as determined, focused and enthusiastic! #WESDFamily

Happy Friday, #WESDFamily! Today, we would like to congratulate Kevin McFadden, opportunity room monitor at Arroyo School, for being recognized as February Empl...oyee of the Month! As an opportunity room monitor, Kevin interacts with students daily. He ensures that students experience fun and exciting activities such as basketball and football all while keeping each student safe. Kevin also assists students with work while balancing his duties to be a calm, yet firm enforcer of Arroyo rules and expectations. He holds students accountable for both their learning and their school behavioral expectations while being a positive influence in the lives of Arroyo students. In the afternoon, Kevin ensures the safety of families by helping them cross safely into the parking lot. After school dismisses, Kevin volunteers to help officiate basketball games to ensure student safety and fairness among teams. Kevin’s colleagues describe him as a dependable, flexible and calm.

Congratulations to Lori Lynch, office tech/After-School Academy instructor at Tumbleweed Elementary, for being recognized as a WESD February Employee of the Mon...th! Lori was nominated by colleagues who appreciate her commitment to supporting Tumbleweed students, parents and staff. Parents are always greeted with a warm welcome and Lori follows through on tasks cheerfully and willingly. She ensures the safety of each and every student by following protocol and using her best judgement. When families, students or staff approach Lori with a question or need, she goes above and beyond to help. As an After-school Academy (ASA) instructor, Lori develops lessons that will make a positive impact on students’ learning. She monitors all ASA students’ progress in order to guide her instruction. Lori’s coworkers say that she helps facilitate extraordinary learning opportunities for Tumbleweed students. Coworkers describe Lori as upbeat, efficient and willing. #WESDFamily

Good morning and happy #IChooseWESD Wednesday! Jacqueline Clark works at the Washington Resource Information Center (WRIC) and provides resources and support to... WESD families. Jacqueline joined the #WESDFamily as a student at Palo Verde Middle School, raised her family in the District and continues to choose the WESD because of the culture and values.

Today, these amazing WESD employees were invited to breakfast to celebrate their dedication to helping our students succeed! Congratulations to the February Emp...loyees of the Month: