stars october

Stormy Barrett, Megan Hernandez, and Alisa Safford have been selected as Elko County School District’s October Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students (STARS) award recipients.

Sean Caron and Martha Contreras nominated Barrett, a school district bus driver. Caron described Barrett as a “superhero” who “demonstrates extraordinary commitment to keeping our kids safe and happy.”

“To say my kids love Ms. Stormy is an understatement. She’s patient and understanding and goes out of her way to make each student feel special. For Christmas, she gets her students books, writes them a little note, and wraps them,” said Contreras.

Hernandez, a math teacher at West Wendover Middle School, was nominated by an anonymous individual who shared, “Mrs. Hernandez truly represents the best of ECSD,” noting her long hours, willingness to tutor, and effective communication with parents and colleagues. “She is pursuing a master’s degree in secondary math so she can teach accelerated classes to her students.”

Safford, a third-grade teacher at Wells Combined School, was nominated twice anonymously.

Safford was recognized for her genuine connection with each of her students and her creative, hands-on teaching methods that make learning exciting and accessible.

One particular instance that exemplifies her approach vividly is when she transformed her classroom into a race track,” the nomination read. “This creative environment sparked a love of learning in my son, who came home brimming with excitement about his racing day‚ a day that was packed with both fun and academic achievement.”

This recognition is made possible through the generosity of sponsors LeeAnne's Floral Designs, Maverick Gaming, The Star, and the Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.

Staff, students, and the public are encouraged to nominate any school district employee who demonstrates exceptional commitment and performance in serving our students.

The nomination form can be found on the STARS webpage on the Elko County School District website.