SEK Interlocal #637

Christina has dedicated 15 years to being a paraeducator in Jeanne Gaddy's Low Incidence classroom and Jeanne is honored to nominate Christina for this recognition. Mrs. Gaddy shared that Christina is "dedicated, hardworking, and truly cares about the success of every student." Christina's experience ranges from working with students that may have intense sensory or behavioral needs to students that are able to attend classes within the general education classroom for the majority of their day. "She adapts and works anywhere she is needed, and does so with a smile." Some of the duties that come along with Mrs. Gaddy's classroom such as medical related care, learning multiple types of technology to assist in communication or learning, and taking detailed data; Christina does with no hesitation and even goes above and beyond to learn more about. Mrs. Gaddy concluded by saying, "My classroom can be stressful due to the intensity of students' needs and behaviors, but Christina is always calm and very compassionate with all the children. She responds positively to feedback and instruction. She is always on time and rarely absent. She is reliable, consistent, and follows though on her duties."

When asked what inspired her to work in the field of education, Christina shared that a dear friend that worked at the Interlocal office inspired her to apply and work as a paraeducator, and the last 15 years are history. She "loves working with the children and all the different personalities they bring to the classroom. She couldn't imagine doing anything else."

When not dedicating her time to the student's in Mrs. Gaddy's classroom, Christina enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three sons.

Susan was nominated by her building principal, Kevin Wade. Some notable attributes that Kevin shares about Susan that he believes makes Susan exceptional include, "possessing a sincere love for students and a willingness to put in the extra effort each day to maintain strong meaningful relationships. She provides a classroom that is founded on mutual respect, high expectations, and successful goal attainment." In addition to relationships with her students, Susan also fosters positive working partnerships with parents and always productively conducts meetings in a processional manner. Susan understands the importance of working with other professionals for the betterment of her students and school, and she can always be found with an upbeat personality!

Susan is "very appreciative to be recognized for this great honor" as she knows there are are so many great people doing great things within our organization! Susan has taught for 26 years, 23 of which have been for the Interlocal, and she still loves coming to school each day. She considers her students a blessing and she thoroughly enjoys helping them find their talents and gifts as they work together to build on those academic or behavioral skills they struggle with in school.

When asked what drew her to education, Susan shared that it was a calling from a young age. She often joined her father, who was a missionary, as he went into communities that were of high need and low resources. She often journeyed out into those neighborhoods to "recruit" children to their nightly Vacation Bible School. "It was my time during these trips that I discovered my passion for teaching and my natural ability to connect with others, regardless of our differences." From her time on the mission field to her current career, she has always felt this is where she is meant to be!

When Susan is away from school, she loves to travel, sing with her family, play the guitar, and spend time with her grandkids.

Krissanna is a paraeducator at Baxter Springs High School. Krissanna received nominations from both general education and special education staff at Baxter Springs High School. Common attributes shared about Krissanna include her ability to push the students in a way that is nurturing but encourages them to try their hardest to find solutions with minimal supports. Her supervising teacher, Alayna Roberts shared that Krissanna shows empathy towards her students and "understands what many of them are going through in their personal lives and gives them grace in the school setting, while staying firm in her expectations." Baxter High School teacher, Kelly Nickleson also added how talented Krissanna is at managing different situations that arise while working with students throughout the day. She is able to de-escalate students when needed and works so very hard in every class.

Krissanna is grateful for this recognition. She has enjoyed her 4 years of being a paraeducator at Baxter High School. Her initial experience was in the preschool/daycare setting and when her husband encouraged her to apply for BHS, she was a bit intimidated to say the least! However, she has "found that she truly enjoys watching her students mature and grow through their high school years. Helping the students learn how to manage more independence in the classroom setting and seeing that come to fruition is very rewarding. Just knowing that I've helped just one person is what matters." Krissanna finished by adding that she works with the most wonderful group of co-workers and that makes the job ideal as well!

Outside of her professional role, Krissanna and her husband have a full-time church ministry. She enjoys crafting, reading, and playing the piano. Her biggest pride and joy are her four grandchildren.

Mrs. Moyer is an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher in the Galena School District and has been with SEK Interlocal for 11 years. Before becoming an Early Childhood Teacher, Ratava taught 1st and 2nd grade in Missouri. When asked what inspired her to become a teacher or what currently inspires her to continue in education, Ratava shared that she "loves working with young children and guiding them as they curiously explore and learn. Working with children and their families is sometimes challenging but extremely rewarding and gives me such a satisfying feeling knowing that I have been a part of helping."

Ratava was nominated by her paraeducator, Cecilia Ballard. Cecilia shared that Ratava goes above and beyond daily for the students in her classroom. She has a heart of gold and never just takes the easy way out when it comes to doing what is best for her students and families. "She is persistent and consistent, all in a very professional manner, and still maintains a nurturing, loving environment for anyone that walks through our doors." Mrs. Moyer is adored by her students and she makes learning fun! Even when distractions or disruptions occur, Ratava doesn't skip a beat! "She makes what can be a difficult job look so easy! She is effortlessly graceful and simply just the best!"

When she is not working with her littles at the preschool, Ratava can be found going to local flea markets, crafting, reading, or gardening. She especially loves spending time with her 6, almost 7, grandchildren! Her and her husband of 39 years also raise and compete bucking bulls all across the country, which also allows her to travel!

Congratulations to Deb Millette for being selected as one of our December Exceptional Staff of the Month! Deb has been in the field of education in one form or another since 1998. Her experience ranges from being a school secretary at the elementary and middle school level in Clay Center, Kansas; as well as a paraprofessional in the elementary and high school levels. She has been a vital part of Lakeside Elementary’s special education program for the past 5 years. Deb acknowledges what a great honor this recognition is. She wanted to give a huge shout out to the fantastic staff that she works with every day. “Having superior staff makes going to work every day a pleasure!” She continues by adding that “She really loves working with all students. Knowing we have a great support staff means a lot.” Every day Deb tries to encourage the students she works with, letting them know that they can do hard things. She “Just loves and encourages them through each task, meeting their needs in education and on a personal level.”

Deb was nominated by Lakeside Special Education Teacher, Shannon Laidler. Shannon shares that Deb’s past experiences in education aid her in her excellent ability to put staff and students at ease, especially in overwhelming situations. “Her dedication to staff and students has not gone unnoticed. She is an amazing multi-tasker and is willing and able to work with all students in need and does so with elegance and grace.” Exceptional qualities that Deb possess include an amazing work ethic, the ability to take direction, dependability, and a positive attitude. Shannon continued her sentiments by sharing that “Deb has the ability to be compassionate yet firm and consistent with students, holding high expectations for all that she supports. Deb makes the days of everyone around her easier and more enjoyable!” Lakeside (and the Interlocal) are lucky to have her!

On her free time, Deb enjoys spending time with her husband of 42 years, their two children, and their eight grandchildren. She enjoys attending her grandchildren’s many activities, playing golf, refurbishing furniture, traveling, reading, and will soon be taking up RVing!

Congratulations to our other December Exceptional Staff of the Month, Kendra Anthony. Kendra is a paraprofessional at Central Elementary in Baxter Springs. She was nominated by her supervising teacher, Jenna Pritchett. Jenna shares that Kendra “goes above and beyond for our students.” She arrives early and stays late to ensure students know she is available when help is needed. Punctuality, preparedness, and initiative are all qualities that describe Kendra. Beyond her role as a #637 paraeducator, Kendra also gets involved within the district by volunteering for the PTO and school activities. Jenna concludes by saying, “I couldn’t be luckier than to have such a kind and caring person to work with!”
Kendra was grateful for the nomination and recognition. Although she is in her first year as a paraeducator, she has experience working with students and children through substituting and church activities. She loves “helping the kids and getting to see the look on their face when something clicks.” Kendra enjoys making learning fun and just being around children and all their crazy lives!
Outside of school, Kendra enjoys cooking, traveling, scrapbooking, and thrifting.

Inclusion/Resource Teacher, Jessica Scott nominated Erica for this much deserved recognition stating that Erica is "such an asset to the Interlocal! Her commitment and willingness to help teachers be the best that they can be for their students is unmatched." Erica is available to help guide, problem solve, and mentor our 1st and 2nd year teachers in all of our 13 districts, but you won't find her stopping there. She is always willing to lend an ear and provide her expertise to any of our staff! As a first year teacher, Jessica shares that she truly believes she would not be where she is as a teacher without Erica's guidance and support this year. "She answers every single question and worry I may have, no matter how small it may seem. Whether it is a phone call, an email, or a face-to-face meeting; she always makes me feel as if my questions are valid or important." Erica's experience and knowledge is a wonderful tool that we are blessed to be able to provide our teachers and staff.

Erica was moved by this nomination. As any natural leader/mentor, Erica says she is continuously re-evaluating her effectiveness in her role, so receiving this nomination is so very nice! Erica is in her 20th year of education and has taught special education at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels. Going from a classroom teacher to an instructional coach has been a change for Erica, but a great one! "I truly enjoy getting to help special education teachers learn and grow. I also love getting to work in all 13 school districts SEK Interlocal serves." Erica also helps build our organization by partnering with PSU to help implement the Para to Teach program , where she works with paraeducators and teachers getting their Unified Education Degree.

Erica and her husband, Justin have three girls; Maggie, Macie, and Mollie. In her spare time she enjoys going to her daughters' sport activities. In the summer, they enjoy spending their free time at the lake.

Shelly is thankful and appreciative of this recognition and in fact believes it should be a group recognition of all of the great staff she works with at Bartlett Elementary. "I know that I work with some of the best and I couldn't do my job without them, so this is also for them! We are definitely a team and I depend on each one of them, especially Lisa!" This is Shelly's tenth year as a paraeducator at Bartlett Elementary. What started as a job opportunity to be on the same schedule as her own children has evolved into a love for getting to know and help other children. "I have enjoyed watching them grow and learn! It is a blessing to be a small part of a child's life."

Shelly was nominated by Inclusion/Resource Teacher, Lisa Strickland. Lisa shares that Shelly is an amazing para, co-worker, and person. "She is so patient with the students and always fosters their self-esteem and praises the students to do their best." Shelly remains calm and collected during stressful situations and is often sought out or requested by general education teachers to be in their classrooms. "She makes learning fun for all kids regardless of their abilities, and it is remarkable the power she has with one M&M or Skittle!" As the classroom teacher, Lisa loves listening to Shelly as she is working with and instructing the students. "She is so calming and knows when to get tough with the kids." The students and staff of Bartlett are blessed to have Shelly on their team!

Outside of her professional role, Shelly enjoys spending time with her family, having Sunday dinners after church, and watching her son wrestle for LCHS.

Susie serves several school districts within the Interlocal, and Riverton Special Education Teacher, Cassie Adams shared the impact and positivity that Susie brings to her building and students. “She actively works on building relationships with the students while also working on OT goals. Our students love going to work with Mrs. Susie. Her smile lights up the room and makes you instantly feel welcome.” Cassie added that Susie is great to work with as a colleague. She continuously checks in to ensure things are going well with shared students, but also follows up on the progress students that she may have screened or provided suggestions for. Her collaboration is greatly appreciated.
Susie has been an Occupational Therapist for 25 years, the past 11 have been in the educational setting with SEK Interlocal. She shared that “she absolutely loves working with kids”, which had a lot to do with her career change from the medical field to the schools. Another motivating factor that drove her to be a part of the Interlocal family was the fact that she has an autistic son “who had a very positive school experience, in large part due to his special education team!” Susie feels very blessed to have a job that she truly enjoys and is “grateful that the love she has for the kids has been recognized at this degree.”
Susie and her husband, Dave have three boys, all of which are very athletic. They enjoy spending her free time following ball teams and supporting her boys! She also enjoys working outside and volunteering for local organizations.

Becky is a paraeducator at Meadowlark Elementary in the Low Incidence, Self-Contained Classroom. Becky was nominated by classroom teacher, Jeanne Gaddy who shared that Becky is one of the hardest working people she has ever met. “She will stay late, come early, take crafts home or do whatever is needed to help the classroom be prepared for the students. She will not stop until she finds what motivates kids to work.” Becky is always adapting, she is willing to work with any student on short notice and responds well to the constant changes that come along with the classroom. Keeping daily data, adjusting a student’s programming based on progress, and even troubleshooting a student’s assistive technology device so he could participate fully in a general education classroom setting; are all things that Becky does because she wants our students to be successful. Jeanne finishes by saying that Becky is soft spoken and loves every child she comes into contact with. “My job would be easy if I could have an entire room full of staff as dedicated as Becky Davis!”
Becky has been a paraeducator for 9 years. When asked what draws her to work with our students each day, she replied, “I love having the opportunity to work with kids and help them learn life skills that will help to make them independent in their future.” She is very thankful for this recognition.
Aside from working on projects for the classroom, in her spare time Becky enjoys reading, riding her horse, camping, and being outside!

Congratulations to our Classified Exceptional Staff of the Month for March, Samantha Mays. Samantha is a paraeducator at Southeast Elementary and was nominated by her supervising teacher, Deb Leslie and general education teacher, Cara Kubler. Both teachers shared that Samantha is "an exemplary paraprofessional who consistently goes above and beyond her responsibilities to ensure the well-being and success of our students." Sam's caring and compassionate nature is one of the biggest characteristics that her colleagues notice and appreciate. "She forms strong connections with students, offering not only academic support but also emotional support and a caring presence. She genuinely cares about each student." In addition to her caring nature, Sam is also has an extremely commendable work ethic. She is present and reliable each and every day, and is the first person to jump in or volunteer wherever help is needed, no prompt or directive needed! Sam is truly available and willing to help any student in the building. Both teachers conclude by sharing that, "Samantha is an invaluable member of their team, and her impact on the students cannot be overstated. She consistently shows the qualities we look for when working with children. Her hard work, dedication, caring nature, and willingness to go above and beyond make her a deserving candidate for this recognition."

Excited by this nomination, Samantha shared that she absolutely loves her role, "being able to make an impact on the students' lives, and seeing them light up and hug me when I'm around." She enjoys seeing the students succeed each day and making sure they know they can count on her for whatever they may need. "Working with these students has been a wonderful opportunity."

In her spare time, Sam enjoys spending time with her two children and husband. She also enjoys working in her garden and strolling through flea markets.

Alayna is incredibly appreciative of this nomination and feels that there are many others just as deserving. She has been an educator for 9 years, and the past 5 have been as a special education teacher. Although her Bachelor's degree was in Business, Alayna found her way to Special Education after working for a mental health facility and realizing she had a "real knack for de-escalating, forming relationships, and connecting with kids." From that experience, she decided to get her Masters in Special Education and the rest is history! She shares that her goal in becoming a teacher was to be "a role model to those kids that aren't sure if they can be successful because of hard life circumstances, that may be out of their control. I believe all teachers want to make a difference in someone's life, even if it is just one student, and that is what inspires me to continue to work with them everyday."

Alayna was nominated by one of her paraeducators Ali Sneed. Ali shares that Alayna goes above and beyond for not only her students but also her staff. "We could not ask for anyone better". Alayna can be found not only making connections with her students throughout the day, but also other Baxter Springs students through coaching and extra curricular activities.

When not in the classroom, Alayna can be found spending time with her husband, Anthony and their daughter, Stella. She enjoys coaching volleyball, her daughters soccer team, and really any other sport she can be involved in. Iced coffee, working out, and attending church are a few of her favorite things to enjoy as well.