Performance Zone 12
February 2014 Spotlights
Steven
Kelley
Harvey N. Dondero Elementary School
Steven Kelley is a fifth grade math teacher at Dondero ES. We are proud to report that Mr. Kelley consistently goes above and beyond what is expected in Math and Science instruction. For example, he organized, planned and led each annual Science Fair. This year, he wrote a grant for a project based "Dog House" activity that engaged students in real world standards based math applications. Thank you, Mr. Kelley for your amazing contibutions to student achievement!
Meghan Plourde
Ms. Plourde exemplifies excellence in the classroom each and every day. She is able to easily translate beliefs into action by creating an environment where strategic planning, student direct learning, and engaged young people thrive under the leadership of this gifted educator. Ms. Plourde is a mentor and a role model who embodies the qualities of a true instructional leader. We are so proud she is a Durango Trailblazer!!!
Mike
Everson
Judy and John L. Goolsby Elementary School
The academic and professional lives of students, parents and staff at Goolsby Elementary are enriched, thanks to the tireless work of Mr. Mike Everson. This is Mike’s second year as our Mathematics Strategist. He has continually built the position to include working closely with every teacher individually, in grade levels, and in whole-school monthly professional development on mathematical content and pedagogy as we transition to the Nevada Academic Content Standards. He has held many grade-specific parent workshops both during and after school to help parents better understand how to help their children. Further, Mike teaches several classes a week for students who are ready for concepts beyond their grade level. He understands that the entire “village” needs to be included to ensure mastery in mathematics, and the “village” is indeed learning!
Tiffany
Grant
Victoria Fertitta Middle School
Fertitta MS would like to recognize one of our outstanding English Language Arts teacher, Ms. Tiffany Grant. Ms. Grant is a 6th grade reading teacher who has done an exceptional job with engaging students. On a daily basis, you will see Ms. Grant's students actively involved in the lesson with using a Kagan structure or Ron Clark Academy strategy. Often, you may even find students teaching the class. Additionally, Ms. Grant is a data driven teacher, who plans her lessons according to the needs of her students. Furthermore, she has gone above and beyond in providing opportunities for both parents and students.
Andi
Jones
Keith and Karen Hayes Elementary School
Hayes Elementary School is proud to recognize fifth grade teacher, Andi Jones. Ms. Jones is a true Hayes Hero who exemplifies the characteristics, which our school strives to develop in all students, staff, and community. She is a lead for the school Achievement Team, grade level chair and serves as a representative for the Hayes Student Council. During her “extra time” she spends numerous hours tutoring at the Natalie Gulbis Boys and Girls Club, Matt Kelly Elementary School, and provides instruction during summer camp activities for ELL students. Thank you for all your leadership skills, knowledge, and wisdom that you provide for our students and the community every single day.