This year we are launching our "Portrait of a Leader" series, where we highlight staff who embody the characteristics of our Graduate Profile. This month we are celebrating Summit School District employees who demonstrate Courage!
1. Brittny Acres (Brittny Acres), SHS & Doug Blake (Doug Blake) Co-Principals & Katie Garvert, SHS Assistant Principal: "I am new to the district, but 33 years into my career, and the 3 welcomed me in their own ways that made me feel very positive about joining the school and working under their leadership. They seem to collaborate very well together. They have positive but authentic attitudes. They are responsive. They seem to be very hands-on and caring administrators."
Dave DeRose, SHS Dean: "Dave takes informed risks‚ perseveres through challenges‚ and advocates for the needs of others. He uses qualitative and quantitative data to inform decisions related to discipline as well as behavior. Data is his (self-identified) love language. He is mindful of and compassionate for students, staff, and families. Dave is creating an environment at SHS where kids belong, feel safe, and can thrive! With each process he implements and the decisions he makes, he builds bridges and creates meaningful relationships. He digs deep and expects the best from each student. Dave leads with courage daily!"
2. Jose B. Rodriguez, Bus Driver & Pete Drummond, Bus Driver:
"Bismark has worked so hard to get his CDL license. He has studied endlessly and overcome the language barrier with great attitude and passion. He works really great with the students and is an excellent driver. He is helpful, kind, and eager to learn more every day."
"Pete is an excellent bus driver and cares deeply about the students he transports. He is not only on top of their safety on the bus but holds a great communication relationship with the parents of his route. He has an excellent attitude when it comes to helping with any challenges his riders are facing on the bus, at school or outside school hours."
3. Erin Dillon, Assistant Principal, SMS:
"Erin displayed courage in a hard conversation about hate speech with students. It was a conversation that had a huge impact on students and teachers in how we can be better as we know better. And that words have an impact on the people around them. We are lucky to have Erin at SMS!"
4. Kendra Carpenter, Interim Teacher, Dillon Valley ES:
"Kendra is back in the classroom (she was previously the DVE principal) and teaching students on an extended calendar and looping with this class to 3rd grade. It takes courage to think outside the box and be willing to take on a new challenge, especially since she is teaching all subjects in English and Spanish. Kendra is passionate about education and continues to stay current on all the research around student learning.!
We look forward to honoring staff who display Curiosity in our next award session!
-Talent Team
