In recent years, education has faced many challenges, and our staff continue to go above and beyond to create safe, supportive, and engaging environments for our students to learn and grow. Columbia wants to celebrate team members who make a difference by lending a helping hand, whether through a small gesture or a big effort.
Becca Evanson, Instructional Technician **WINNER*
“Being new to the school, Becca has really helped me adjust! She is not only a good co-worker to help and give ideas, she is also a great helper with students. All the students love and respect her. They go to her when they need something and she helps them so much!”
“Becca is truly such an asset to our campus and consistently goes above and beyond in her role. She is always willing to jump in wherever support is needed, whether that means assisting individual students, supporting full classrooms, or stepping in to help with related services. Her flexibility and positive attitude always shines. She adjusts her schedule without hesitation to ensure students and staff have what they need to be successful. One of Becca’s greatest strengths is the genuine rapport she builds with every student she works with. Because of this, she is able to effectively support students across multiple grade levels and connect with them in a way that promotes trust, engagement, and growth. Her dedication, adaptability, and student-centered mindset make a meaningful impact on our campus each and every day.”
“Rebecca works with many students here. She has a firm but very loving hand and the kids and staff both know that. If staff are having difficulties with a student she is always there to help out, and can de-escalate the problem.”
“I have watched as Becca has interacted and calmed without incident some of our most dysregulated students over the past couple of weeks, months and years.”
Mary Bickley, Fifth Grade Teacher
“Throwing me a baby shower. She is always extending a helping hand.”
Breanne Brown, Payroll & Accounts Payable
“Breanne always cheerfully answers questions while working diligently so that all the finances are in order.”
“Breanne has been helpful and patient showing me how to navigate Aeries and solve some issues that I've had. She is incredibly knowledgeable and smart. I really appreciate working with her.”
Alisha Curnow, Instructional Technician
“Alisha always goes above and beyond to help in any way possible. She is kind hearted, a good coworker and amazing with the kids. We all love her.”
Diane Ditler, Music Teacher
“I have watched Diane put together two beautiful concerts over the past two weeks that have included the majority of our student body. Truly impressive!”
Gina Hughes, Math Interventionist
“Mrs. Hughes has gone above and beyond to make every part of CUSD a better place for everyone. From intervention and leadership to The Mine and everything in between. She covers all the bases of being there for you!! She brings joy to the conversations, humor to any situation, and love to the classroom. She’s a true hero!”
Aleta Ketchum, Head Cook
“Aleta goes above and beyond to make healthy creative meals for our students and staff. Her dedication to providing for our school is special.”
“She always goes above and beyond her regular duties, always with a smile on her face.”
“Aleta always makes sure the kids and staff have a healthy breakfast, snack, and lunch. She truly cares for everyone here and shows it daily.”
Sheila Lane, First Grade Teacher
“Shelia goes above and beyond to provide a safe and consistent environment for her students. She consistently implements tier one and two interventions to meet the needs of her students. She’s an effective model and leader within her grade level and even reaches staff outside of her grade level. She’s always willing to try any and all recommendations even with her most challenging students. She’s an absolute rock star.”
Jessica Mathews, Sixth Grade Teacher
“Taking on the library and inventorying the books to have accurate counts and finding missing items. The dedication to the school does not stop there: conducting D & D class for Discoveries, helping out with Dinner with a Scientist, and continuing her own education. True team player.”
Joslyn Sanchez, Kindergarten Teacher
“I have been able to be in Joslyn's room this week and have been able to see how she has masterfully managed her kindergarteners through the festive session. She has also gone out of her way to help me complete my art project with her group.”