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Awards Celebrating Child-Centered Excellence
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| The Joyce Gustafson Memorial Award - Mary Beth Wiig, Minnetonka High School |
| The Charlie Parnell Award for Excellence in Special Education - The Rainbow Room, MCEC |
| The Brad Board Award for Excellence in Elementary Education - Sue Odt, Groveland Elementary |
| 2014 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Nominees - Kelly Kautz (Groveland) and Kathleen Terhaar (MME) |
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Courtney Balcer, Minnetonka Preschool, Special Education TeacherParents say what they notice most about Courtney Balcer is the joy she has while teaching. Courtney, along with her co-teacher Paul, created the Rainbow Room, a classroom dedicated to preparing special education students and community peers for the transition to kindergarten. With Courtney guiding their learning, Rainbow Room students are achieving at a high rate and developing important social-emotional skills that will set them up for success in the future. Her creativity, calm demeanor and friendly smile have made all the difference in her students and their families. As one parent said of Courtney and the Rainbow Room, “I know my child is LOVED!”
Connie Kensinger, Clear Springs Elementary, Teacher
As a Physical Education teacher at Clear Spring Elementary, Connie Kensinger motivates students to live healthy lifestyles and care about their bodies. Her enthusiasm, ability to connect with children and determination to make herself a better teacher has not only impacted her students, but has also inspired staff and teachers around her. As one colleague said, “She never stops learning. She is always trying to make herself better.” In addition to teaching, Connie serves as the Clear Springs Wellness Representative, organizes the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser and mentors Physical Education teachers.
Kathy Fox, Deephaven Elementary, Reading Specialist
Reading is the fundamental building block of learning. Kathy Fox helps ensure all students have a strong foundation for reading. She works with small groups of students and provides individualized instruction. She meets them where they are at and guides them toward new skills and vocabulary. Kathy also works with teachers and parents to equip them with strategies that help young readers. She is passionate about her work and often spends time outside of the school day helping students. Kathy is driven by her passionate belief that all children can and must learn how to read.
Amy O’Neill, Excelsior Elementary, Teacher
Amy O’Neill loves working with “outside the box” thinkers, and the feeling is mutual among her high potential students. Amy creates a friendly atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing their ideas. Amy challenges students to delve deep into their passions. She guides them through projects that hone critical and creative problem-solving skills. Embracing technology’s role in preparing students for their future, Amy uses the latest tools to engage her students and foster a sense of excitement. The most important lesson students learn: When faced with a challenge, never give up and try your best!
Kelly Kautz, Groveland Elementary, Teacher
Those who know Kelly Kautz agree that she is an amazing teacher. Kelly is the supervising special education teacher for the autism program. Kelly helps her students have a positive learning experience every day. She identifies each student’s needs and develops a strategy to help them grow academically and emotionally. Her modeling and positivity encourage the whole school to embrace her students with differences. A leader in technology, Kelly has presented at state and national conferences. In 2005, she was the SMART Technologies North American Regional Winner for using a SMART Board for individualizing student learning.
Chris Haun, Minnewashta Elementary, Teacher
Chris Haun has an extraordinary ability to connect with students and motivate each child to reach his or her full potential. She incorporates the latest research and educational resources into new learning experiences. Her classroom is a true community, where students support and respect one another. Her love for students is genuine and evident in all she does, including spending numerous evenings developing individualized instruction in literacy in order to maximize her time with students. She instills in her students her enthusiasm for learning. Without fail, her students demonstrate academic growth beyond expectations.
Jonathan Maki, Scenic Heights, Art Teacher
“Don’t color in the lines, anything can be art!” is a quote students remember from Jonathan Maki’s art class. When you walk into his classroom, you know he is passionate about two things: students and art. He makes his classes come alive by showing students examples of where they can see art principles in everyday life. Jonathan recognizes important 21st Century Skills like creativity and collaboration and helps teachers across the District embed these skills within their classrooms. He is an early-adopter with technology and is always finding new ways to impact student learning.
Kathleen Terhaar, Middle School East, Language Arts Teacher
In order for students to learn, they must feel supported and loved. Kathleen Terhaar embraces this idea as she celebrates student achievements and supports them during times of challenge. She is a master teacher and a role model for students and colleagues alike. Kathleen provides students choices with many of their assignments. From essays to musical compositions, these choices empower and challenge learners to develop new skills. Students meet Kathleen’s high expectations and have lots of fun along the way. She frequently supports her students outside of the classroom by attending plays, musicals and athletic events.
Jeanne Sammelson, Minnetonka Middle School West, Teacher
Jeanne Sammelson is described as patient, caring and enthusiastic—qualities that make her well-respected by both students and staff at MMW. Jeanne knows how to connect with people, whether it’s a whole class of students, individual students or colleagues. Always patient and ready to give good advice, students know they can turn to Jeanne for support. New teachers rely on Jeanne as a mentor; she is always ready to share her expertise and experiences. Regardless of the day or how she is feeling, Jeanne’s smiling face and positive attitude are felt throughout the entire school every day.
Mandy Kasowicz, Minnetonka High School, Teacher
Students appreciate Mandy Kasowicz’s calm and caring manner as she helps get them ready for life after high school. She is the special education teacher who leads the Transition Program which equips students with life skills that prepare them for success following graduation. From budgeting to meal planning, Mandy teaches important skills her students will use for a lifetime. She is able to see the big picture and uses each day as an opportunity to help students make good choices and teach them the importance of taking responsibility for their actions.
Matt Moran, Minnetonka High School, Teacher
Psychology and sociology concepts are a little easier to understand when your teacher makes them relevant to current events and your life. As a teacher in the Social Studies department, Matt Moran uses stories that connect learning with life. Growing up in the Bronx, Matt has no shortage of stories. Students respect him and chose him to be the staff speaker at last year’s graduation ceremony. His message to students was to not find what the world needs, but rather find what makes you come alive. He is a master at differentiating his teaching to meet each student where they are at and pushes them to achieve more than they thought possible.
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Mike Condon, District Service Center, Buildings and Grounds
District facilities have seen many changes over the past 36 years. During this time, Mike Condon has made sure each project is completed on-time, on-budget and with the highest quality. Summer is typically Mike’s busiest time of year as he oversees maintenance and construction projects that have the same deadline: the first day of school. By automating heating and cooling systems, implementing green standards and focusing on energy efficiency at all schools, Mike has helped the District earn the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Leader Award. Mike is retiring this school year and has left a legacy in Minnetonka’s world-class facilities.
Paula Erbisch, Minnetonka Middle School West, Guidance Counselor
Making personal connections with students is what makes Paula Erbisch so successful as a guidance counselor. Guiding MMW students through their middle school years, Paula has developed a high level of trust with her students. She truly cares about her students and approaches their issues with kindness and empathy. Paula is always available to listen to their concerns and celebrate their achievements. She provides practical advice to ensure students are receiving the academic, social and emotional support they need to be successful. Paula gives students the tools they need to be ready for life’s challenges.
Debbie Guido, Clear Springs Elementary, Clerical
As head secretary, Debbie Guido impacts the lives of every person in the Clear Springs community. The energy and enthusiasm she brings to work each day is contagious. Students, parents and staff are always comfortable going to Debbie with their questions. They know she will do whatever it takes to find them an answer. Prior to working at Clear Springs, Debbie worked for Minnetonka Community Education and helped organize the annual Tour de Tonka bike ride. Even though her job has changed, Debbie still volunteers countless hours to make sure Tour de Tonka is a success.
Gary McGrorty, District Service Center, Custodian
If Gary McGrorty played baseball, he would be a utility player. From delivering packages at schools to maintaining buildings, he’s able to perform a number of different roles as a custodian in the District. Gary anticipates what needs to be done before he is even asked. He takes pride in making the District Service Center and Technology Center places that are clean, welcoming and safe to conduct the District’s business. With a cheerful attitude and continuous smile, he does whatever it takes to make visitors and staff feel comfortable in the buildings he maintains.
Christy Snede, MCEC & Clear Springs Elementary, Paraprofessional
Christy Snede has been an active parent, ELL volunteer, childcare paraprofessional and valued staff member in the Minnetonka School District for over 15 years. In her most recent role as the Behavior Support Assistant for the Minnetonka Child and Family Support program, Christy has the ability to see gifts and strengths in each child. She connects with children quickly and is always there to support them as they navigate through their feelings. Her positive attitude, flexibility and tireless work ethic are what make Christy the heart of the Minnetonka Child and Family Support program.
Deb Waldenmaier, Minnetonka High School, Nutrition Services
You’re sure to see a smile whenever you talk to Deb Waldenmaier. She is outgoing, friendly and passionate about serving students healthy food that tastes great. Staff and students enjoy talking with Deb because she has a unique way of making each person feel important and special. As the manager of school nutrition, Deb arrives at 6 a.m. to start prepping food for more than 2,000 meals served daily at MHS. Deb’s energy is contagious and it is clear that she takes pride in what she does. She energizes those around her with a positive attitude and gentle spirit.
Janie Warner, Clear Springs Elementary, Paraprofessional
Janie Warner has worked at Clear Springs for 10 years and currently facilitates several programs including Confident Kids, Primary Project and ADHD Coaching. As an ADHD coach, Janie works endlessly to address her students’ concerns while focusing on their long-term success. Her genuine love of children and caring personality have earned the respect of teachers, staff and parents. Her insights into student behavior help staff support learners with ADHD so they can be successful in the classroom. Often described as creative and positive, Janie will do whatever it takes to keep these valuable support and intervention programs available to students.
Lisa Zimmermann, MCEC, Junior Explorers Supervisor
Lisa Zimmermann consistently goes above and beyond to ensure each child feels special. Whether it’s creating a project for a student who may need extra help, taking time to discuss goals with parents or simply providing a kind word, Lisa shows genuine interest in each child’s learning and well-being. She applauds good behavior with “two thumbs up days” and works with students to understand the implications when they don’t make a good decision. Her support for students and their families is unconditional, and that shows each day when children come home from her classroom excited about their day at Junior Explorers.
Kent Knutson, Minnetonka Theatre, Artistic Director
After arriving in Minnetonka in 2002, Kent Knutson has helped create one of the premier high school theater programs in the country. This year, he led an outstanding cast and crew of the one-act play Wit to the state tournament where they won top honors for the sixth consecutive year. Under Kent’s artistic direction, MHS musical theatre has earned top awards from Hennepin Theater Trust’s SpotLight Award Program. Kent recently learned he is being inducted into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame this year. His students have been recruited by and attend some of the nation’s most prestigious fine arts colleges and universities. |
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Jan Battles, Minnetonka Theatre, VolunteerIf you’ve ever been to a theatre performance at the high school, you probably noticed the beautiful, Broadway-caliber costumes worn by the cast. Jan Battles is the mastermind behind these inspiring designs. Since 2002, she has brought her love of theater, artistry and dedication to over 65 theater productions. In addition to her work as costume designer and seamstress, Jan also has a passion for sharing her talents with the next generation. In fact, she has inspired many of her former crew members to pursue careers in costume design and fashion. As one admirer said, “Jan is simply brilliant at what she does. She has passion and commitment to see that students have an amazing theatre experience.”
Steve Bennett, Village Automotive Group, Business Partner
Growing up in a small town, Steve Bennett learned at a young age the difference a supportive and involved community can make. He brings community focus to his business, the Village Automotive Group (Lexus of Wayzata and Village Chevrolet). Steve’s family and business are major supporters of our students, the Minnetonka Diamond Club and the Minnetonka Football program. Whether it is advertising in programs, donating auction items or sponsoring events, they are always generous with their contributions. Steve feels blessed, and the resources he is able to donate brings him a great sense of balance in his personal and professional life.
Bob Goodale, Family Friends Inc., Community Volunteer
Genuine is a word many people use to describe Bob Goodale. He takes students from both middle schools under his wing as he finds resources to help them navigate through their early teenage years. Bob meets with students individually and in small groups as a mentor, coach and friend. He knows building trusting relationships is the foundation of the work he does. With the support of the non-profit Family Friends Inc., he is able to provide resources to Minnetonka students and their families. Whether a student needs a ride to school, a new pair of shoes or a positive male role-model, Bob is there.
Brian Kuhnly, Cub Foods Minnetonka, Business Partner
As manager of Cub Foods Minnetonka, Brian Kuhnly provides generous donations and support to the entire school district. Through donations of food and beverages to fundraising contributions to providing space for organizations to hold car washes, Brian always says “yes” to support Minnetonka student and community groups. From ECFE to the Touchdown Club, every school and community group has had an opportunity to work with Brian and Cub Foods. The store, near the intersection of County Road 101 and Highway 7, is a model for business partnerships and corporate social responsibility. As a 1978 Minnetonka graduate, Brian sees his store as a friend to the community, and that makes good business sense.
Roger Lenahan, Tonka Football Association, Community Partner
Our players are lucky to have a man of character like Roger Lenahan as a role model and director of the Tonka Football Association. Even though Roger’s children no longer play youth football, he continues to volunteer countless hours to the program. Under his leadership for the last 12 years, the Tonka Football Association has grown into the largest youth football program in the state. Roger works closely with Dave Nelson and the high school football program in developing camps and experiences to build skills and character in young players. He also oversees 150 youth coaches in the program. His message for players and coaches is simple; have fun! Roger believes if kids enjoy playing the game, everything else will follow.
Ann Senn, Deloitte, VANTAGE Business Partner
Ann Senn believes it’s important for students to discover and follow their passions to be successful in life. And if it’s a future career in business that students wish to pursue, they can look to Ann for guidance. With years of business expertise, Ann has been influential in creating VANTAGE, Minnetonka’s Advanced Professional Studies program. As a partner with Deloitte, she has donated her expertise in curriculum development and project designs for the VANTAGE global business course. Ann has been instrumental in establishing business relations within the Minnetonka community and beyond in order for students to have an enhanced learning experience in a real‐world, business setting. Ann has also organized the Women in the Professions forum, allowing students to evaluate post-secondary educational paths and business careers.
Tom & Jack Stevens, Maynard’s, Business Partner
Maynard’s has a continued commitment to the Minnetonka community, and schools, seen in their unending support for school programs. They donate food, profits and time to help Minnetonka students. Maynard’s has helped raise money for Veterans and Legacy Fields as well as for fine arts programs in the District. They also help support community groups like the ICA Food Shelf by donating all sales on the day following the Super Bowl to help feed local families. “Let’s meet for dinner at Maynard’s” is a frequent saying in Minnetonka. But Maynard’s is more than just a place to eat—it’s part of the fabric of the community and a valued partner for our schools.
Denny Wollan, Tonka United Soccer, Community Partner
Serving as president of the Tonka United Soccer Association since 2011, Denny Wollan is a bridge builder in our community. He led efforts to unite the Hopkins Dynamo Soccer Program with the Tonka United family. This has benefited kids by giving them more opportunities to play at different levels. Most recently, Denny led fundraising efforts for turf to be installed on the upper practice field at Minnetonka High School. After a $75,000 grant from the Hennepin County Youth Sports Program was secured, he worked with individuals and businesses to find money to complete the project. Construction begins in June for this additional turf field which will allow more students in soccer and lacrosse to practice each year.
Steve Youngstedt, Youngstedt’s, Business Partner
As a member of the Minnetonka High School Class of 1981, Steve Youngstedt has deep roots in the local community. As the CEO of Youngstedt’s, Steve is a generous supporter of co-curricular activities and youth sports in Minnetonka. From sponsoring the Zamboni at the Pagel Center to hosting car wash events to benefit the Diamond Club, Youngstedt’s generously supports the Minnetonka community. You will see their advertising support at just about every athletic facility and printed program within the District. Steve lives in Shorewood with his wife and three kids—all of whom have or will follow their dad’s footsteps with a Minnetonka diploma. |
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Julie Schoshinski, ECFE Advisory Council Member and Volunteer A member of the ECFE Advisory Council since 2009, Julie Schoshinski has been an ambassador and cheerleader for the Early Childhood Family Education program. During her time on the council, Julie has helped coordinate the Holiday Family Giving program and the Preschool Open House. Julie was also instrumental in bringing back “Parent Talk” for elementary parents. This program helps strengthen the bond among parents in the District. The Preschool Open House helps promote our strong preschool program to families who visit the Minnetonka Community Education building. Her leadership helps show off the best of what our community education program has to offer.
Rich Hirstein, Ski Club Volunteer and Basketball Coach
If you spend any time at the Minnetonka Community Education building, you’re sure to run into Rich Hirstein. He is a very active community member and volunteer. Rich has been a strong supporter of youth recreation basketball for the last 15 years. He works as a liaison between the rec league and the traveling basketball program. Rich also spends time in the winter months serving as a constant source of fun and support for the MCE Ski Club. In the summer, Rich helps direct bicycle riders on the first Saturday in August for Tour de Tonka. Without a doubt, Rich volunteers his time to MCE to strengthen our community, our schools and our families.
Bob Quam, Adult Programs Volunteer
Bob Quam has worn many hats in the Minnetonka School District. He was a math teacher at the high school for six years, then served as a school board member from 1997 – 2005. For the last four years, he has been an active member of the Minnetonka Community Education Advisory Council. Here, he helps provide leadership and direction for Minnetonka’s community education programs. Bob also volunteers at events throughout the year like the Minnetonka Youth Triathlon and Tour de Tonka. Our community benefits greatly from Bob’s hard work, enthusiastic spirit and unending energy surrounding Minnetonka Community Education and its programs.
Bud Boberg, Community Partner, Family Friends Inc.
Bud’s dedication and caring for Minnetonka students is unmatched. A volunteer for more than 20 years at Minnetonka High School, Bud works with kids in support groups, provides transportation to medical appointments and meets with families during times of need. As director of the non-profit Family Friends Inc., Bud aids families in meeting basic needs during crisis, helping them to get back on their feet. He also arranges scholarships for students to participate in Minnetonka Community Education programs that help them build important academic, social and recreational skills. Family Friends Inc. relies on private funds and fundraisers to help support students and families in our school district.
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Did we miss someone you think should be honored?
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