Amanda Dorman, William Herron, and Sherri Stephens were selected as the Elko County School District’s November Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students (STARS) award recipients.
Dorman, a reading interventionist at Southside Elementary School, was nominated by someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
“Since the school year began, Miss Amanda has made sure to support any and all staff that need her. She has been working with students since day one and is eager to learn more,” read the nomination. “She hasn't been afraid to ask questions or provide her input regarding the needs of the students. She never complains, she makes the best of any situation, and she does more than is required.”
Herron, a math teacher at Elko High School, was nominated by student Sophia Green.
“Mr. Herron believes in each and every one of his students and encourages them to ask questions when they need help. One of my favorite things about him is that he will not force students to ask questions in front of the class. Instead, they can always ask him before class or even send him an email,” said Green. “He makes his classroom feel like a safe space to students and helps them feel comfortable in their environment. He shows a sincere commitment to help all these students succeed throughout their high school career and their future in general.”
Stephens is an early childhood and special education teacher at Grammar #2 Elementary School. She was nominated by parent Erica Gonzalez, parent Nora Arevalo, and someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
Gonzalez’s nomination explained Stephens has taught two of her children, and helped them both develop important skills despite their individual needs in the classroom.
“Mrs. Sherri gives children who have special needs the education and stepping stones to build the foundation they will need to be successful adults in our society. No words will ever express the appreciation and love for this woman.”
Arevalo’s nomination explained Stephens had taught three of her children.
“I was fortunate to have her work with all three of my children, and they all have adored her and her classroom. Not only is she great at teaching but she truly loves all the kids and her job,” said Arevalo. “At one point my family dealt with cancer in my oldest son. Sherri heard, and she did not waste a minute to reach out and offer help in any way she could— from her past experience, to how to manage through it, and ease back into school routines during the treatments. My words can never do justice to how much I appreciate her.”
Recognition of these deserving employees would not be possible without sponsors: LeeAnne's Floral Designs, Maverick Gaming, and Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.
Beginning this school year, the employee recognition program will begin recognizing three employees on a monthly basis through May next year. The individuals selected do not need to be a classroom teacher and could be any employee who provides services at any Elko County School District school or department.
Nominate our next STARS recipient here.