Ashley Meadows, Judy Wintermote, and Rikki O’Farrell were selected as the Elko County School District’s September Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students (STARS) award recipients.
Two anonymous individuals nominated Meadows, a fourth-grade teacher at Southside Elementary School.
“She shows genuine concern about issues my child is having with her studies even after only knowing her for a week. She shows sincere concern for her students and a desire to make sure they have what they need to succeed,” one nomination read.
“Her advocacy for her students is tireless; she ensures that every child in her class is seen, heard, and supported. Whether it is through differentiating instruction, building strong relationships, or cultivating a safe space for learning, Ashley is a true champion for student success. Her dedication, passion, and leadership make her more than deserving of this recognition,” read another nomination.
Wintermote, a teacher at the Adult Learning Center, was nominated by someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
“Ms. Wintermote does it all in her program—she is the teacher, counselor, registrar, and academic advisor. She always supports her students and shows each one that someone cares about them. She advocates for her students needing assistance and ensures they are cared for. Ms. Wintermote has often gone out of her way and out of the classroom to assist students in need. She offers resources to students in need and does so without judgment.”
O’Farrell, a third-grade teacher at Carlin Combined School, was nominated by Carlin Combined Vice Principal Tammie Smithburg.
Smithburg explained that O’Farrell ran in-school suspension last year, “supporting our students and helping them achieve their goals. She helped many students want to be better and start believing in themselves. They are truly doing better.”
The nomination continued praising O’Farrell for her commitment to teaching third grade this year while taking courses at Great Basin College full-time.
“She is dynamic and welcomes everyone with a smile; her students truly love her.”
Recognition of these deserving employees would not be possible without sponsors: LeeAnne's Floral Designs, Maverick Gaming, The Star, and Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.
Staff, students and the general public are all encouraged to nominate a school district employee who demonstrates exceptional performance and commitment to the education of all students served by the district’s schools.
The nomination form can be found on the STARS webpage on the Elko County School District website.