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CARE finalist bios finalist bios STUDENT SERVICES PROFESSIONAL CARE CHAMPION AWARD BACK TO AWARDS Services STUDENT SERVICES PROFESSIONAL AWARD FINALISTS Recognition of outstanding service and support of students by professionals working in a student services role including counselors, psychologists, social work, School Resource Officers (SRO), case managers, therapists, or other related roles. School Resource Officers JULIE BUDDENHAGEN AND LARISA HILDENBRAND Julie Buddenhagen and Larisa Hildenbrand serve as School Resource Officers at Pewaukee Lake Elementary, where they play a vital role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and success of students, staff, and families. Both bring a unique balance of professionalism, approachability, and proactive support, addressing challenging situations, guiding students through concerns, and collaborating with staff and parents to create a secure and positive learning environment. Beyond safety, they build meaningful connections with students, serve as mentors and role models, and foster trust and open communication across the school community. Their dedication, calm presence, and unwavering commitment make them an invaluable part of Pewaukee’s schools. OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST Kris Krysa Kris is an outstanding Occupational Therapist whose expertise and dedication make a meaningful difference for students across the school. He provides individualized support to help students develop the skills they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Much of his work happens behind the scenes, from adapting classroom materials to consulting with teachers, ensuring every student can access learning in the most effective way. Kris also steps in to support staff when students are dysregulated, providing strategies and calming guidance that benefit both students and the classroom environment. His compassion, professionalism, and tireless commitment to student success make him an invaluable member of the school community. PHS SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST Ally Molini Ally Molini is the school psychologist at Pewaukee High School and is deeply valued for her unwavering support, empathy, and dedication to the well-being of students and staff. Throughout her time in the district, Ally has consistently made herself available to listen, guide, and advise—whether it’s helping students navigate personal challenges, supporting staff through difficult situations, or simply providing a caring ear when someone needs to vent. Her thoughtful, practical guidance is always paired with a positive and approachable demeanor, making her someone that students and colleagues alike feel comfortable turning to. Ally fosters a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone feels heard, understood, and valued, and she goes above and beyond to ensure that each individual knows they matter. Her tireless commitment, kindness, and advocacy make her an indispensable member of the Pewaukee High School community and a trusted presence who leaves a lasting, meaningful impact on everyone she interacts with. PHS SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER Betsy Preiss Betsy Preiss is a highly dedicated and compassionate Special Education teacher at Pewaukee High School, known for her unwavering commitment to putting students first. She approaches every situation with empathy, patience, and a student-centered mindset, ensuring that each learner feels seen, heard, and supported. Betsy’s ability to balance professional excellence with genuine care allows her to guide students toward reaching their full potential while also uplifting and mentoring her colleagues. Calm, steadfast, and an exceptional communicator, she handles multiple responsibilities with grace, consistently prioritizing the needs of her students. Her kindness, dedication, and positive influence make her a cornerstone of the school community and a truly deserving recipient of recognition. PHS SCHOOL COUNSELOR Katie Williams Katie Williams is a compassionate and dedicated school counselor at Pewaukee High School, widely recognized for her unwavering commitment to supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. She goes above and beyond to help students navigate both school-related challenges, such as scheduling and standardized testing, and personal struggles, providing guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever it’s needed. Known for her proactive approach, Katie regularly checks in with small groups and individual students, quickly addresses concerns, and continuously seeks ways to improve processes to better serve the school community. Calm, approachable, and solution-oriented, she is a trusted advocate and mentor who empowers students to overcome obstacles, build confidence, and reach their full potential. Her care, consistency, and dedication make her an invaluable presence at Pewaukee High School. CARE CARE CHAMPION AWARD FINALISTS Recognition of an individual or team working to provide a high level of care and support for students, staff, families, or groups in the community. Wynelle Bailey HORIZON SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST Wynelle Bailey is a dedicated School Psychologist whose compassion and expertise make a profound impact on the entire school community. She embodies care in every interaction, offering a listening ear and guidance to both students and staff. Always approachable, Nellie balances a busy caseload while prioritizing the social and emotional well-being of those around her. She provides Tier 2 and Tier 3 behavior interventions, collaborates closely with families and staff, and explores creative solutions to meet the unique needs of each student. Her warmth, professionalism, and tireless dedication to supporting the whole child make her an invaluable member of the district and a true champion for care. Shannon Dusel 5TH GRADE SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER Shannon Dusel is an exceptional 5th Grade Special Education teacher and the Program Coordinator for our district’s Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program. She combines visionary leadership with hands-on dedication, always putting students first. As head of the Horizon Special Education Department, Shannon skillfully navigates complex challenges while maintaining a supportive and compassionate approach. She consistently goes above and beyond, stepping in wherever help is needed, and her unwavering commitment to students, staff, and the school community makes her a true champion for education. BUSINESS EDUCATION TEACHER Shawn Prell Shawn Prell is an outstanding Business Education teacher whose impact extends far beyond the classroom. He is a caring mentor, coach, and innovative leader of the Insight programming, helping to shape students’ futures and career paths. Known for his kindness, integrity, and strong family values, Shawn connects deeply with both students and families, creating an environment where every student feels safe, valued, and supported. His consistent dedication, positive influence, and ability to inspire students make him a standout leader and truly deserving of this recognition. ATHLETIC TRAINER Rhianna Roskopf Rhianna Roskopf is an exceptional Athletic Trainer whose dedication and professionalism have made a significant impact on student health and safety at the high school. This year, with a high number of concussions and serious injuries, she has responded swiftly and effectively in every situation. Rhianna provides top-tier care while maintaining clear, timely communication with students, families, and doctors, ensuring that each student receives appropriate accommodations. Her positive attitude, relentless work ethic, and genuine care for students set her apart, making her an indispensable member of the school community. TECHNICAL FACILITIES MANAGER James Sevens James Sevens has been a cornerstone of the Pewaukee High School community since 2012, serving as Technical Facilities Manager, Drama Director, and Technical Director. Known for his kindness, humor, and genuine care for students, James inspires learners to explore theater, persevere through challenges, and grow both creatively and personally. He collaborates seamlessly with colleagues—especially his co-coach and wife—to produce dynamic fall plays and spring musicals, modeling teamwork, dedication, and mentorship for students throughout each production. Beyond the stage, James treats every student as an individual, offering support, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever it’s needed. His passion for the arts, commitment to student success, and infectious enthusiasm make him a beloved presence in the school, embodying Pewaukee’s motto of “Opening the Door to each child’s future.” BACK TO AWARDS

STUDENT SERVICES STUDENT WELLNESS PEWAUKEE LAKE HORIZON ASA CLARK MIDDLE PEWAUKEE HIGH THE The Pewaukee School District’s CARE Ecosystem breaks down "CARE" into four integrated categories that drive student wellness: System Support, Proactive Support, Responsive Support, and Peer Support. System Support focuses on using data and feedback to identify and address needs. Proactive Support is how we intentionally build wellness skills in our students. Responsive Support ensures students get help when they’re struggling or in crisis. Peer Support empowers students to support themselves and one another. Toggle over the infographic to the right to explore how each part of the CARE Ecosystem works together to support wellness at Pewaukee Schools. CARE ECOSYSTEM SYSTEM SUPPORT The “System Support” pillar of the Care Ecosystem ensures PSD meets the evolving needs of every student by focusing on data collection, internal support, wellness, and Board of Education feedback. As challenges like technology, social media, and the pandemic shape student needs, our teams work together to build systems that support social-emotional growth—helping students build self-awareness, manage emotions, and make responsible decisions. Grounded in our Graduate Profile, we know these skills are key to lifelong success. PROACTIVE SUPPORT Our proactive efforts focus on supporting students, staff, and families. For students, this includes lessons that help them practice conflict resolution during group work, recognize signs of stress and use healthy coping strategies, and apply decision-making frameworks to real-life situations. We also prioritize strong, positive partnerships with families to work together in supporting and celebrating each child. Teachers receive ongoing professional development to help them build these future-ready skills throughout the day and foster a positive, welcoming classroom environment for all students. RESPONSIVE SUPPORT There will always be times when a student needs support beyond our proactive measures. When that happens, each school has trained professionals —such as school counselors, school psychologists, our district social worker, school resource officers, and even our therapy dog, Gus—ready to respond. We also partner with on-site community mental health providers for students who benefit from extended care and maintain a Community Resources website to help families find specialized support. Collaborations with groups like Positively Pewaukee and United Way expand our reach , while our growing internal resource database helps equip students, staff, and families with tools to navigate challenges like mental health concerns, grief, homelessness, and food insecurity. PEER SUPPORT We know peer influence is powerful, and our goal is to harness that power by empowering students to support one another. As the fourth pillar of our CARE Ecosystem, peer support gives students meaningful ways to demonstrate CARE and CONNECT. At Horizon, fifth graders mentor incoming third graders, building friendships and modeling positive behavior. At Asa Clark, “Compass Crew” is a new group of peer- and staff-nominated students who lead service learning projects and promote kindness, inclusion, and peer advocacy. At the high school, our Hope Squad is made up of trained, peer-nominated students who watch for signs of distress and help classmates connect with trusted adults. These programs foster a generation of students who care for themselves and others. To learn more about the impact of our Hope Squad, click the button! Document Community Resources Document Document Conflict Resolution Care Closet PSD SOCIAL WORKER AND GUS! MICHELLE DAVISION 262-701-5569 davimic@pewaukeeschools.org SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS CLICK ON SCHOOL FOR CONTACT INFO PLE HZ ACMS PHS our staff SCHOOL COUNSELORS Click on school icon to visit counselors' contacts for each building. PLE HZ ACMS PHS

Home Home Home PEWAUKEE HIGH SCHOOL HOPE SQUAD Hope Squad is a peer-to-peer suicide prevention club. Members of the Hope Squad were nominated by their peers for being concerned about others, easy to talk to, and good at listening. Hope Squad members are trained to recognize warning signs and connect those struggling to someone who can help. Pewaukee High School's Hope Squad is advised by: ALLY MOLINI 262-701-5717 moliall@pewaukeeschools.org MICHELLE DAVISON 262-701-5569 davimic@pewaukeeschools.org COMMUNITY RESOURCES PHS Counselors hope squad members LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR MEMBERS

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QUICK LINKS: School Pages The Student Services Department is at the heart of our district, focusing on our most important stakeholders—our students. In alignment with our mission to "open the door to EACH child's future," we recognize the value of personalized learning and the overall well-being of every individual who enters our schools. To better serve our students, this department is organized into two key areas: Instructional Support and Student Wellness . Our dedicated team—which includes School Counselors, Psychologists, Interventionists, our Social Worker, and others—works collaboratively to ensure students receive both academic and emotional support, helping them thrive in every aspect of their school experience. Explore our district-wide initiatives and programs under these two categories, or visit the individual School Pages below for age-specific resources, contact information, and building-based supports. Community Resources PHS Counselor Page SERVICES STUDENT Academic/Career Planning Our district-wide instructional support programs are designed to meet students where they are and help them grow to their fullest potential. Learn more about our Special Education program, 504 plans, Early Childhood Programs and more. INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT The well-being of our studentsis our top priority. Here, you'll find district-wide initiatives that support this mission, including our Care Ecosystem, Community Resources, Hope Squad, and more. STUDENT WELLNESS School Pages PLE HZ school pages ACMS PHS Visit the Student Services "School Pages" for building/age specific initiatives, documents, and information. ANTHONY STRANCKE DIRECTOR OF STUDENT SERVICES 262-695-5077 straant@pewaukeeschools.org Anthony Strancke has served as the Director of Student Services for the Pewaukee School District since July 2013. He began his career in education in January 1999 as a special education teacher in Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), bringing a strong passion for supporting students with diverse needs. Anthony earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in December 1998, with a focus on Intellectual Disabilities. He later pursued a Master’s Degree in School Leadership from Marian University in Fond du Lac, further equipping him for leadership roles in education. During his time with MPS, Anthony served as both a coordinator of special education and an associate principal. In 2007, he joined Shorewood Public Schools, where he held a dual role as Middle School Principal and Director of Special Education until 2013. In his role at Pewaukee, Anthony continues to advocate for inclusive education, comprehensive student services with a strong emphasis on transition programming. Outside of his professional responsibilities, he and his wife, Shelly, have raised two children. He enjoys landscaping, works out daily, and loves biking with his kids.

PHS INSIGHT'S ELEMENTS OF HEALTH AND MEDICINE Course Details i Teacher Bio 2023 Capstone Example Students will engage in learning experiences across the medical field while developing critical skills for the future. In partnership with the Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) students will have the opportunity to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Utilizing Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curriculum, students will investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases. Students will explore how to detect and fight infection, screen and evaluate the code in human DNA, evaluate cancer treatment options, and prevail when the organs in the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases and clinical experiences, students will be exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, diagnostics, and more. Skills learned will be applied in various clinical experiences in a variety of healthcare settings. Each student is partnered with a professional mentor. This class is taught at Pewaukee High School and at WCTC, although students will regularly travel to professional partners within the community. Professional attire is required when visiting professional partners. Nursing or lab attire will be required at alternative times.

PEWAUKEE SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEET OUR BOARD MEMBERS SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION INFO BOE Election - April 7, 2026 yearly MEETING SCHEDULE Overview of yearly schedule of Board of Education meetings. upcoming MEETING AGENDA View the meeting agenda for the most upcoming Board of Education meeting. view MEETING MINUTES View archived minutes from previous BOE meetings. view ARCHIVED AGENDAS View agendas from 2009 to current meetings. ABOUT The Pewaukee School District Board of Education plays a vital role in shaping the educational experience of our students by making policy decisions that guide the operations of our schools. Grounded in our mission—“Through our unique all-school campus setting, the Pewaukee Public Schools will open the door to each child’s future”—the Board ensures that all initiatives and actions align with our commitment to student success. The Board is comprised of seven dedicated members, each elected by and representing the entire District. Together, they serve as stewards of our vision, working collaboratively to support a thriving learning environment for every student in the Pewaukee community. BOE CALENDAR AT A Glance VIEW FULL CALENDAR COMMUNITY RESOURCES Meeting Livestreams District Policies Citizen Participation Open Enrollment Safety Committee Agenda All Board of Education Meetings are live-streamed and archived on the District YouTube page

STUDENT SERVICES INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT PEWAUKEE LAKE HORIZON ASA CLARK MIDDLE PEWAUKEE HIGH SPECIAL EDUCATION The Pewaukee Public School District offers a continuum of services for children who qualify for special education and related services, ages 3 to 21. Each child who meets criteria for one or more of the 11 impairments described in both state and federal law, and who demonstrates a need for special education and related services, will receive a free and appropriate education to meet his or her needs as described in his or her Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This plan is developed by the IEP team which includes parents and professionals working together to meet the unique needs of each child. PSD Procedural Safeguards Document Parents United Information Document Pupil Nondiscrimination Self-Evaluation Document DPI Statutory Requirements OUR INCREDIBLE CREW From school psychologists and interventionists to paraprofessionals and teachers, our staff works collaboratively to support each student’s academic success. We have one psychologist per school as well as reading, math, and literacy interventionists that work one on one with students and their needs. To connect with a specific staff member, please view our directory below. VIEW DIRECTORY

CREATE finalist bios finalist bios BACK TO AWARDS Support OUTSTANDING INNOVATION AWARD FINALISTS Innovative approach, program, project or other idea that improves an existing experience or program, or creates something new for the benefit of students, staff, and/or our community Nelson Brownell TECHNICAL EDUCATION TEACHER Nelson Brownell is a tech ed teacher at the high school who has been a driving force behind innovation in Career and Technical Education. Known for his creativity, collaboration, and solution-focused mindset, Nelson has played a key role in transforming both the curriculum and the learning environments to better reflect real-world industry needs. From helping design and build new CTE spaces to forming strong partnerships with local businesses, he consistently creates meaningful, hands-on opportunities for students. Even during times without a dedicated classroom, Nelson went above and beyond—working with numerous companies to ensure students continued to learn through authentic, real-world experiences. He is deeply committed to connecting students with career pathways, often coordinating off-site learning and logistics to make those experiences accessible. Through his vision, dedication, and tireless effort, Nelson has made a lasting impact on students and the future of tech ed in the school. Kate Fruth BUSINESS AND CAREER TEACHER Kate Fruth, a business and career teacher at the middle school, is known for her creativity and innovation in the classroom. She designs authentic, industry-aligned learning experiences that engage students in real-world challenges, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and professional-level problem solving. Her forward-thinking approach empowers students to take ownership of their learning, producing thoughtful, high-quality work. By connecting classroom concepts to future careers and real-life applications, Kate inspires students to explore new possibilities, build confidence, and develop strong problem-solving skills, leaving a lasting impact on their educational experience. PHS BAND INSTRUCTOR Kate Mitchell Kate Mitchell, band teacher at the high school, is recognized for her innovative approach to music education and her commitment to expanding opportunities for students. She developed and implemented Music Studio Lab, a new course that reimagines traditional instruction by providing a hands-on, creative, and highly flexible learning environment. In this student-centered space, learners are encouraged and supported to explore their individual passions and interests within the music pathway, fostering both independence and artistic growth. Kate’s forward-thinking vision allows students to take ownership of their learning while engaging in meaningful, authentic musical experiences. The course has quickly gained popularity among students and represents a transformative shift in how musical instruction can be delivered. Through her creativity, initiative, and dedication, Kate is helping to shape a more dynamic and personalized future for music education. PLE ART TEACHER Julie Purney Julie Purney has been a valued educator in the Pewaukee School District since 2015, bringing creativity, innovation, and a collaborative spirit to her work at both Pewaukee Lake Elementary and Horizon. A visionary in art education, Julie creates dynamic, hands-on learning experiences through initiatives like the Makerspace, school garden, and student-led art classes, inspiring students to explore, experiment, and express themselves with confidence. She is passionate about fostering curiosity and critical thinking, often partnering with colleagues to build meaningful cross-curricular connections that enrich learning across subjects. Known for her energy, creativity, and student-centered approach, Julie helps cultivate a school environment where imagination and a love of learning can truly thrive. Robin Wilson DIRECTOR OF LEARNING & ACADEMIC COACHIING Robin Wilson brings innovation to life through her hands-on approach to play-based learning. From designing classroom environments to creating materials that support student engagement, she consistently looks for ways to make learning more meaningful and accessible for young learners. Her work often extends beyond the school day, as she develops tools, props, and resources that help students actively connect with academic concepts. She fondly calls her office “Santa’s Workshop” due to the countless hours spent surrounded by sawdust. Through her leadership, the district’s 4K program has truly transformed, reflecting a thoughtful, immersive approach aligned with how young children learn best. BACK TO AWARDS

CONNECT finalist bios finalist bios OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD OUTSTANDING TEAMWORK AWARD BACK TO AWARDS Support OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD FINALISTS Recognition of staff and community or business partners that enhance the learning, experience, and opportunities for students. Bell Tower Team CHERI ENTERS, JEAN MILLER, BILL RHEINGANS The Pewaukee Kiwanis Club is a dedicated and generous partner to the Pewaukee School District, continuously contributing time, resources, and support to enrich the school community. Their efforts have resulted in beautiful and meaningful additions to school spaces—ensuring all students feel acknowledged and celebrated. Kiwanis works alongside students to involve them in community activities such as gardening projects at Horizon Elementary and creating artwork for events like the RiverRun and Beach Party. Their generous donations help fund scholarships and support student-focused initiatives like Friends of Fine Arts. Whether through hands-on collaboration or behind-the-scenes support, Pewaukee Kiwanis plays an important role in uplifting and empowering the district’s students. D&H INDUSTRIES Sam Gerrits Sam Gerrits, CEO of D&H Industries, is a visionary partner who exemplifies the power of school-to-workforce connections. He consistently opens the doors of his company to Pewaukee students, offering them hands-on learning opportunities that build real-world skills and inspire future career paths. Sam’s dedication to career and technical education is evident in his generous support, including a major contribution that provided Pewaukee High School with a new plasma cutter—an industry-grade tool that enhances classroom learning, supports the Robotics Club, and strengthens cross-curricular opportunities. Through his leadership, Sam demonstrates how business partnerships can elevate student experiences and prepare them for success beyond graduation. CHAMPIONS Dena Laufenberg Dena Laufenberg has shaped the Champions program into a trusted and valued partner for Pewaukee Lake Elementary and Horizon, creating experiences that go far beyond typical before- and after-school care. Her vision and dedication ensure that every activity is thoughtfully planned, engaging, and tailored to meet students’ needs, while families consistently express their appreciation for the program’s organization and quality. Dena works closely with school staff, communicating proactively and collaborating at every step to make sure students are supported, safe, and cared for throughout the day. Through her tireless commitment, attention to detail, and focus on building strong relationships, she has strengthened the connection between the schools and the community, leaving a lasting, positive impact on students and families alike. CULVER'S PARTNER Kyle Soderstrom Kyle Soderstrom, along with his family and Culver’s on Grandview, has been an outstanding partner to the Pewaukee School District, generously supporting students through time, resources, and community involvement. They provide ice cream for Back-to-School events and PTO programs, helping create a fun, welcoming environment that encourages student success. Kyle and Culver’s have also supported student wellness by donating playground equipment and contributing to scholarships, including matching funds for the PLE scholarship program. Most recently, Kyle committed to matching earnings from the Shamrock Shuffle Dance to further support PHS scholarships. His ongoing generosity and dedication have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the Pewaukee community. Kurt Spitzner Kurt Spitzner has dedicated countless hours to building and developing the PTV sports broadcast program, creating an engaging and hands-on experience for students interested in media and athletics. Through his mentorship, students actively participate in producing broadcasts that showcase school events and achievements, gaining valuable skills while contributing to the athletic department by securing sponsors and generating funding. Kurt’s guidance ensures that students not only learn technical and professional skills, but also have opportunities to celebrate their peers’ accomplishments, such as highlighting Cassie Hooyman’s final “Warriors Wear Red” event during a halftime interview. His commitment, expertise, and support have made PTV a meaningful program that empowers students while amplifying the accomplishments of the Pewaukee community. Services OUTSTANDING TEAMWORK AWARD FINALISTS Recognition of outstanding teamwork represents the ability to work collaboratively and positively to impact students, staff and the organizational culture. ACMS Counselors ALLISON PRATHER & BRIANNA REMBERT The ACMS counseling team, Allison Prather and Brianna Rembert, exemplifies seamless collaboration and a shared commitment to putting students first. They bring creativity, fresh ideas, and thoughtful perspectives to everything they do, developing initiatives such as Pirate Games, Chill Week, and supporting the Wellness Center. Their ability to work together effectively allows them to anticipate needs, implement programs, and create meaningful experiences that positively impact students’ well-being and growth. Always approachable and innovative, Allison and Brianna inspire those around them while fostering a supportive and engaging environment, making them an exceptional team within the school community. CHRISTIE JOHNSON AND LEXI HORVAT Horizon Principals Christie Johnson and Lexi Horvat, principals at Horizon, work together with seamless collaboration and a shared commitment to supporting both staff and students. They listen carefully to teachers’ requests and concerns, responding with thoughtfulness, care, and consistency, while valuing work-life balance for everyone. Their strong communication and mutual support ensure that decisions are collaborative, transparent, and well-informed. Christie and Lexi celebrate staff achievements, provide meaningful and encouraging feedback, and openly share ideas without gatekeeping information. Through their approachable, supportive, and knowledgeable leadership, they create a positive and thriving school environment that inspires both teachers and students alike. BETSY PREISS, JUSTIN FRISKE, JILL WILD, STEVE DENNEAU, BECKY VAN DERAA, JILL THOMAS, MEGAN WEIHERT, AND NIKKI MIRR PHS Special Education Team The PHS Special Education Department, led by Betsy Preiss and including Justin Friske, Jill Wild, Steve Denneau, Becky Van Deraa, Jill Thomas, Megan Weihert, and Nikki Mirr, works tirelessly to support nearly 100 students at the high school. They collaborate closely with teachers, paraprofessionals, administration, and families to ensure each student’s needs are met. Their work includes co-teaching, crisis management, scheduling, paperwork, and ongoing communication. The team shows strong collaboration and flexibility, adjusting roles and systems to support students across programs and transitions. Their professionalism, adaptability, and student-centered approach make a lasting positive impact on both students and the school community. ANGELA CASTILLO, ABBY PHILLEO, CLAIRE SALB, KERRI SIIRA PLE Nurses The PLE nursing team, Angela Castillo, Abby Philleo, Claire Salb, and Kerri Siira, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and collaboration in supporting students and staff throughout a challenging year. They navigate a wide range of student needs, including medical complexities, allergies, anxiety, and toileting concerns, always ensuring each child receives the care and attention required. The team works closely with classroom teachers, often handling difficult parent conversations and coordinating support to meet students’ needs, even when these tasks fall outside traditional health room responsibilities. Through their compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment, they create a safe, supportive, and responsive environment that strengthens the entire PLE community. LISA O'HERN, SARAH KENNEDY, BETH INGERSOLL, TYLER REED, & NICOLE HUST Summer School Team The Summer School Team, Lisa O’Hern, Sarah Kennedy, Beth Ingersoll, Tyler Reed, and Nicole Hust, brings dedication, creativity, and hard work to every aspect of the program. Lisa ensures that classes are thoughtfully staffed and engaging for all students, while Sarah develops exceptional programming for students with special needs and organizes supports that help everyone succeed. Nicole expertly manages all things Skyward, keeping the program running smoothly, and Tyler provides invaluable support in addressing student behaviors. Together, the team gives their time and energy to a program that spans the summer, approaching every challenge with a positive attitude and a shared commitment to creating meaningful, enjoyable experiences for students and families alike. BACK TO AWARDS