At the Board of Education Meeting on Monday, February 3, four staff members were recognized with the 232 TORCH Award presented during the month of January. This award, newly branded for the current school year, recognizes district staff for their exceptional commitment to students and our district.

The first school visited for the month of January was Monticello Trails Middle School where Proud Superintendent Cory Gibson and Principal Jennifer Smith celebrated paraeducator, Matt Fugate. Matt is appreciated not only for the things he does every day to help his students be successful but also for his willingness to step in and help wherever it is needed. This includes stepping in as an emergency substitute teacher, to helping coach and manage sports teams, to assisting with custodial duties after school - Matt is there for his Timberwolf family. 

Next, recognized was Carly Bowden, seventh grade Pathways teacher at Monticello Trails, with the TORCH award for the month of January. Principal Jennifer Smith provided details about the sincere appreciation the MT staff and students have for what Carly does every day in her classroom but also for her contributions in professional development. Her eagerness to help extends outside the classroom as one of the coaches of the Timberwolves Football Team! 

At Prairie Ridge Elementary, paraeducator Kerri Dupriest, was surprised with the 232 TORCH Award. Principal Kristel Fulcher shared that Kerri is very well known on the PRE SPED team for being the “mathematician expert”. Her skills help students better understand math and also allows her time to co-teach the subject with some of the teachers. Her calm, approachable demeanor is a comforting quality for several students. 

Heading to the PRE kindergarten pod, Laurie Hoover was found having fun with her students during their indoor recess. Principal Kristel Fulcher revealed to the excited kindergarteners the reasons their amazing teacher was selected for the 232 TORCH Award. During her 18-years at PRE, Laurie continues to rise above challenges with a positive attitude and willingness to do whatever it takes.  Her dedication and compassion for her students are truly inspirational.

Congratulations to all staff members recognized for the month of January with the 232 TORCH Award!