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PLE
PLE TEACHER OF THE YEAR
AWARD FINALISTS
Karen Maderski
4K TEACHER
Karen Maderski, a 4K teacher at Pewaukee Lake Elementary, is an extraordinary educator whose warmth, dedication, and passion leave a lasting impact on every student she teaches. She creates a nurturing, fun, and safe environment where children feel supported, loved, and inspired to learn, helping them gain confidence and develop a love of school from their very first days. Karen connects with each student personally, celebrating their individuality and guiding them to grow socially, emotionally, and academically. She communicates thoughtfully and openly with families, fostering strong partnerships that ensure every child’s success. Known for her kindness, approachability, and genuine care, Karen embodies the heart and dedication of an exceptional teacher, leaving an indelible mark on her students and the entire Pewaukee Lake Elementary community.
1ST GRADE TEACHER
Natalie Matthiesen
Natalie Matthiesen, a first-grade teacher at Pewaukee Lake Elementary, is known for her exceptional flexibility, dedication, and commitment to student success. Over the past three years, she has willingly changed grade levels twice, moving from 5K to 2nd grade and then to 1st grade, always striving to make the greatest impact. Natalie has consistently sought opportunities to support special education classrooms, ensuring all students receive the instruction and care they need. Even when her co-teachers have been on maternity leave, she has stepped in to provide seamless support across both special education and general education programs. Her adaptability, teamwork, and dedication make her an inspiring and invaluable member of the PLE community.
READING INTERVENTIONIST
Becky Rogers
Becky Rogers, a reading interventionist at Pewaukee Lake Elementary, has been a steadfast and inspiring member of the reading intervention team since its inception. She teaches with heart, combining gentle care with direct, explicit instruction to help every struggling reader thrive. Becky’s supportive and nurturing approach allows students to build confidence, develop critical skills, and experience success in reading. She is always willing to explore new interventions and strategies, going above and beyond to support not only her students but also her colleagues on the intervention team. Known for her kindness, leadership by example, and unwavering dedication, Becky has made a lasting impact on the district and continues to be a trusted colleague, mentor, and friend.
1ST GRADE TEACHER
Jenny Toth
Jenny Toth, a first-grade teacher at Pewaukee Lake Elementary, is a caring, kind, and engaging educator who brings warmth, humor, and energy to her classroom every day. She creates an environment where students feel supported, valued, and motivated to do their best, encouraging them to take pride in their work and stay engaged in learning. Jenny’s thoughtful approach helps foster strong connections with her students, making learning fun, meaningful, and memorable. Her ability to inspire excitement, curiosity, and confidence in her students nurtures a lasting love of learning. Known for her dedication, creativity, and genuine care, Jenny has a meaningful and lasting impact on her students’ early educational experiences and the Pewaukee Lake Elementary community.
2ND GRADE TEACHER
Trish Zahn
Trish Zahn, a second-grade teacher at Pewaukee Lake Elementary, is a passionate and dedicated educator whose impact extends beyond the classroom. She thoughtfully personalizes instruction using data, observations, and small-group teaching to support student growth and set meaningful goals. Trish builds strong, trusting relationships with her students, creating a safe and supportive environment where they feel challenged and valued. She also fosters meaningful partnerships with families through consistent communication, sharing updates and reflections that keep parents connected to their child’s progress. Beyond the classroom, Trish is actively involved in the school community, supporting events, collaborating with colleagues, and contributing to ongoing school initiatives, always going above and beyond for her students.
HZ
HORIZON ELEMENTARY TEACHER
OF THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS
Angie Carey
3RD GRADE TEACHER
Angie Carey, a third-grade teacher at Horizon Elementary, is a dedicated and compassionate educator whose thoughtful approach creates a classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn. She balances high-quality instruction with genuine care, fostering engagement, independence, and confidence while building strong connections with students and families. Highly collaborative, Angie supports colleagues and shares ideas to strengthen her team. Beyond academics, she nurtures students’ social and emotional growth, creating an environment where children feel empowered and excited to learn. Her dedication, creativity, and ability to inspire leave a lasting impact on students, families, and the Horizon community.
5TH GRADE TEACHER
Michelle Gospodarek
Michelle Gospodarek has been teaching fifth-grade math, science, and social studies at Horizon Elementary since 1999, bringing dedication, expertise, and a genuine love for students to her classroom every day. She creates an engaging and supportive learning environment where students feel challenged, valued, and empowered to succeed. Known for her strong instructional skills and thoughtful communication with families, Michelle ensures that students receive the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive academically and personally. Her ability to build meaningful relationships with students, parents, and colleagues fosters a close-knit and positive school community. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, supporting their activities, and sharing in family passions like sports and the arts, reflecting the same energy, care, and commitment she brings to her teaching.
4TH GRADE TEACHER
Amy Harris
Amy Harris, a fourth-grade teacher at Horizon Elementary since 2016, is a kind, dedicated, and supportive educator who creates a welcoming and engaging classroom where students feel valued and motivated to learn. Known for her patience, helpfulness, and genuine care, she builds strong connections with her students, fostering both academic growth and personal confidence. Amy’s classroom is a space where children are encouraged to explore, take risks, and develop a love of learning, guided by her thoughtful instruction and positive approach. Beyond teaching, she embraces the Pewaukee community, modeling generosity and pride while inspiring students to grow both inside and outside the classroom. Her commitment, warmth, and encouragement make her a trusted mentor and an invaluable part of Horizon Elementary.
3RD GRADE TEACHER
Emily Jasinowski
Emily Jasinowski, a third-grade teacher at Horizon Elementary, is a remarkable educator whose passion, creativity, and empathy leave a lasting impact on every student. Leading an inclusion classroom, she ensures every child receives kindness, understanding, and tailored support, skillfully balancing multiple roles while creating a safe and encouraging environment. Her innovation is evident in projects like the hammock garden, a space for reading, relaxation, and STEAM learning that reflects her commitment to experiential, inclusive education. Emily’s dedication, creativity, and care for students and families inspire joy, confidence, and curiosity, making her classroom a place where students feel valued, empowered, and inspired.
3RD GRADE TEACHER
Sydney Thompson
Sydney Thompson, a third-grade teacher at Horizon Elementary since 2018, is a calm, caring, and dedicated educator who creates a warm and supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially. She is known for seeing the best in every child, advocating for students and their families, and providing thoughtful, individualized support to meet diverse needs. Sydney continually seeks new strategies to enhance her teaching, incorporating small-group instruction and other innovative approaches to ensure all students are engaged and growing. Beyond the classroom, she serves as a mentor to student teachers, sharing her expertise and modeling exceptional teaching practices. Her kindness, composure, and genuine care make her a beloved teacher and a strong presence in the Horizon community, inspiring both students and colleagues alike.
ACMS
ASA CLARK MS TEACHER
OF THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS
Lisa Dennis
8TH GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER
Lisa Dennis, an eighth-grade Language Arts teacher, is a dedicated and collaborative educator whose impact extends beyond her classroom. She approaches students and colleagues with thoughtfulness, patience, and a calm presence that fosters trust and engagement. Lisa creates a learning environment where students feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow academically and personally, tailoring instruction to meet every learner’s needs. Equally committed to her colleagues, she shares ideas, offers guidance, and models teamwork and professionalism. Her kindness, empathy, and unwavering dedication make her an exceptional educator whose influence is felt daily throughout the school community.
7TH GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES/SCIENCE TEACHER
Liz Donald
Liz Donald, a seventh-grade Social Studies and Science teacher, is a dedicated and inspiring educator whose guidance leaves a lasting impact on students. She creates an engaging, meaningful classroom where students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and explore new ideas. Focusing on the whole child, Liz helps students build confidence, responsibility, and curiosity, tailoring instruction to meet individual strengths and needs. Her patience, dedication, and genuine care extend to strong relationships with students and families, fostering a supportive community. Through her teaching and mentorship, Liz helps students grow academically and personally, preparing them to become capable, well-rounded individuals.
7TH GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER
Emily Jussila
Emily Jussila, an ELA teacher at Asa Clark Middle School since 2014, is a dedicated and inspiring educator whose passion, creativity, and guidance leave a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. She creates a dynamic classroom where students are engaged, challenged, and supported in their growth, while fostering strong connections with families across the community. Emily goes above and beyond in her role, coordinating student trips to London and co-advising the Yearbook Club, demonstrating her commitment to providing enriching experiences beyond the classroom. Known as a mentor and collaborator, she supports her colleagues with expertise, creativity, and steady guidance, helping elevate teaching across the school. Her energy, thoughtfulness, and dedication make her an invaluable member of the Asa Clark community, positively shaping the lives of students and staff every day.
ENGINEERING TEACHER
Scott Roehl
Scott Roehl, an Engineering teacher, is a dynamic and inspiring educator whose sense of humor and enthusiasm make learning engaging and fun for every student. He creates a classroom environment where curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving thrive, ensuring students fully understand each project while encouraging them to think critically and take risks. Beyond his teaching, Scott is remarkably involved across the school, balancing numerous responsibilities with energy, dedication, and skill, making an impact on students, colleagues, and the broader community. His ability to juggle multiple roles while maintaining a positive, approachable, and motivating presence makes him an exceptional educator and a true role model for both students and peers.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH TEACHER
Michelle Steinke
Michelle Steinke, a Physical Education and Health teacher since 2002, is an exceptional educator whose energy, creativity, and dedication inspire both students and colleagues. She creates an engaging environment where students build confidence, discover their passions, and strive for their personal best. Michelle brings innovation and expertise to her teaching, often sharing ideas that benefit the entire school community. Known for her strong commitment, she supports colleagues, enhances student experiences, and promotes a positive, active school culture. Beyond the classroom, Michelle enjoys cheering on her children in sports, traveling, hiking, and sharing her passion for health and movement with others.
PHS
PHS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
AWARD FINALISTS
Stephanie Gilmore
ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION
Stephanie Gilmore has been an Alternative Education instructor at Pewaukee High School since 2014 and is known for her student-centered approach and dedication. She creates a supportive, engaging environment where students build confidence, take ownership of their learning, and explore their strengths. Stephanie collaborates with colleagues and leadership to develop creative solutions, advocate for equity, and close learning gaps, while building strong relationships with students and families. Outside of school, she enjoys time with her husband and three children, basketball, traveling, thrifting, reading, and home improvement, bringing the same passion and care to life as she does to her classroom.
PHS CHOIR TEACHER
Tasha Igielski
Tasha Igielski, the choir teacher at Pewaukee High School, is a dedicated and inspiring educator whose passion for music and commitment to her students is evident in everything she does. She cultivates a positive and motivating classroom environment where students feel supported, encouraged, and confident to reach their full potential. Tasha challenges her students to work hard, believe in themselves, and embrace both creativity and professionalism, helping them grow as musicians and individuals. She goes above and beyond by welcoming younger students to observe varsity choir practices, promoting the importance of music across the district, and leading concerts that are widely celebrated in the community. Known for her grace, patience, and unwavering dedication, Tasha leaves a lasting impact on every student she teaches and inspires a love of music that extends far beyond the classroom.
ENGLISH TEACHER
Nicole Maruggi
Nicole Maruggi is an English teacher whose quiet strength and consistent dedication make a profound difference at Pewaukee High School. She is a trusted presence for both students and colleagues, always available to provide academic guidance, social-emotional support, or simply a reassuring smile. Nicole’s calm, steady approach creates a welcoming environment where students feel seen, valued, and encouraged to do their best. Her genuine care and positivity ripple through the school, uplifting those around her and inspiring students to grow not just academically, but personally as well. Though humble about her impact, Nicole’s influence is unmistakable—she fosters confidence, kindness, and a love of learning in every student she encounters.
SCIENCE TEACHER
Jenny Klemme
Jenny Klemme, a Science teacher at Pewaukee High School since 2007, is a passionate and dedicated educator whose enthusiasm and positivity make learning both engaging and enjoyable. She creates a classroom environment where students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to succeed, blending high academic standards with humor, creativity, and clear instruction. Beyond her teaching, Jenny invests deeply in the school community as varsity girls’ tennis coach, middle school co-ed tennis coach, and adviser for the Science Olympiad team, inspiring students through both academics and athletics. Known for her professionalism, collaboration, and willingness to mentor colleagues, she consistently leads by example, seeking feedback and applying it with expertise and humility. Her kindness, approachability, and genuine care for students leave a lasting impact, making her a trusted mentor and a beloved member of the Pewaukee community.
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Becky Van Derra
Becky Van Deraa is a Special Education teacher whose dedication and innovation have profoundly impacted her students and the school community. She creates a safe, supportive classroom where every student can thrive academically and emotionally, carefully individualizing instruction and coordinating schedules to meet diverse needs. Beyond her classroom, Becky mentors support staff, leads district initiatives like safety training, and fosters a compassionate school culture. Known for her calm, positive demeanor and creative problem-solving, she approaches every day with patience and commitment. Becky’s leadership, expertise, and care open doors for students and leave a lasting mark on the school community.
NEW
NEW STAFF MEMBER OF THE
YEAR AWARD FINALISTS
Everett Harmelink
ACMS ELA TEACHER
Everett Harmelink joined Asa Clark Middle School as an ELA teacher in 2025, bringing a deep connection to the Pewaukee community and a true passion for teaching. He goes above and beyond for every student, cheering them on both inside and outside the classroom, whether in sports, clubs, or other activities. Everett’s energy and positive attitude are contagious, inspiring his students and colleagues alike. Outside of school, he enjoys supporting Wisconsin sports, especially the Milwaukee Bucks, watching Marvel movies, and competing in Fantasy Football with friends he’s known since middle school. His commitment, enthusiasm, and care make him an exceptional addition to Asa Clark, and the school is grateful to have him on the team.
PHS SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
Isaiah Grove
Isaiah Grove has made an exceptional impact in his first year as a Social Studies teacher at Pewaukee High School. From day one, he built strong relationships with his students, learning names quickly and creating a welcoming, engaging classroom environment. Isaiah brings energy, creativity, and a sense of fun to every lesson while maintaining control and high expectations. His students consistently praise his ability to make history relevant, understandable, and enjoyable, and they appreciate the personal care he shows for each of them. Beyond the classroom, Isaiah supports students by attending extracurricular events and collaborating closely with colleagues to enhance learning opportunities. Even as a first-year teacher, he demonstrates professionalism, flexibility, and leadership, quickly becoming an integral part of the school community. His dedication, positivity, and connection with students and staff alike reflect the very best of Pewaukee Schools.
4TH GRADE TEACHER
Owen Lapp
Owen Lapp has made an immediate and meaningful impact as a fourth-grade teacher, quickly becoming a valued member of the school community. He leads with kindness and builds strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and colleagues, creating a supportive and welcoming environment. Owen is reflective in his practice, consistently seeking and applying feedback to grow as an educator. A collaborative team player, he always focuses on what is best for students, working thoughtfully with others to ensure their success. His dedication, professionalism, and positive presence make him an exceptional teacher and a true asset to the school.
PLE SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Stacie Manna
Stacie Manna joined Pewaukee Lake Elementary in 2025 as a Special Education Teacher and has made an immediate and meaningful impact. She brings a deep commitment to student success and goes to great lengths to create personalized, engaging learning experiences that allow every student to feel valued and successful. Whether it’s arranging a concert tour for a student who loves to sing, supporting another in decorating CDs, or helping students set meaningful goals, Stacie thoughtfully tailors her approach to each child’s interests and strengths. Beyond her individualized instruction, she is a highly collaborative team member, working closely with colleagues to ensure student plans are carefully designed to support growth. Stacie’s creativity, care, and dedication establish strong, trusting relationships with every student on her caseload, making her an invaluable part of the PLE community.
ASSISTANT TO THE SUPERINTENDENT
Tammy Yundt
Tammy Yundt has seamlessly stepped into the role of Assistant to the Superintendent and has exceeded every expectation. Working closely with Dr. Cady in a fast-paced, high-profile environment, Tammy brings professionalism, reliability, and creativity to every task. Her thoughtful event planning, artistic attention to detail, and ability to anticipate needs make her an invaluable part of the District Office. As the welcoming face of the office, she consistently greets visitors, students, volunteers, staff, and families with warmth, kindness, and professionalism. Tammy regularly goes above and beyond, often staying late to ensure projects are completed thoroughly and successfully, always with the district’s best interests at heart. In just over a year, her impact has been profound, and her presence feels as though she has been part of the Pewaukee community for much longer. The district is truly fortunate to have her dedication, care, and expertise.
SUB
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
OF THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS
Cory Haight
Cory Haight is an outstanding substitute teacher who truly feels like a permanent member of the school community. She is known for her reliability, flexibility, and unwavering dedication, often stepping in at the last minute—sometimes even rushing from appointments—to ensure classrooms run smoothly. Cory takes the time to learn about her students, creating a safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable and can continue learning with minimal disruption to their regular teacher’s style. She skillfully balances classroom management with thoughtful instruction, and both teachers and students trust her implicitly. Always willing to go above and beyond, Cory’s presence makes every day easier for staff and students alike, and her commitment and care make her an indispensable part of the school.
Trisha Funke
Trisha Funke is an exceptional substitute teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure students are supported and engaged when their regular teacher is away. With a wealth of prior teaching experience, Trisha brings expertise, confidence, and a thoughtful approach to every classroom she enters. She quickly builds rapport with students, manages the learning environment with ease, and adapts lessons to meet the unique needs of each class. Her professionalism, reliability, and genuine care for students make her a trusted and valued member of the school community.
Carey Grafwallner
Carey Grafwallner is a dedicated and dependable substitute teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to support Pewaukee Lake Elementary. She is always willing to step in whenever needed, ensuring that students have a smooth and positive learning experience in the absence of their regular teacher. Carey’s professionalism, flexibility, and caring approach make her a trusted and valued member of the school community, and her presence helps both students and staff feel confident that the day will run seamlessly.
Linda Moss
Linda Moss is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated substitute at Pewaukee Lake Elementary. She consistently goes above and beyond, willingly rearranging her personal schedule to step in and support the school whenever needed. Linda has proven herself invaluable in a variety of situations, seamlessly taking on multiple roles and responsibilities to ensure that students and staff are fully supported. Her flexibility, professionalism, and genuine care for the school community make her a trusted and appreciated presence, and she consistently makes a positive difference in the lives of both students and colleagues.
Jay Posick
Jay Posick is an extraordinary substitute and valued member of the Pewaukee School District community. With a background as a retired educator, he brings unmatched energy, enthusiasm, and versatility to every assignment. Jay has seamlessly stepped into a wide variety of roles, including principal, special education teacher, and paraprofessional, and he frequently lends a hand to support cafeteria and custodial teams. His willingness to fill any need, combined with his positive attitude and professionalism, makes him an indispensable presence in the district. Staff and students alike appreciate his dedication, adaptability, and the way he makes every day run more smoothly, no matter the task at hand.
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