2019–20
Lauren Borcherding, Intervention Specialist MD Lead, Roselawn Condon — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Lauren consistently exhibits the core values throughout the school year but has especially demonstrated these values during this COVID 19 crisis. She has taking the lead on many new initiatives for students, paraprofessionals and teachers to make certain everyone in the MD department collaborates successfully. She continues to introduce innovative ways to deliver SDI to the MD students at Roselawn. She pushes everyone around her to strive to do their best. She is the most helpful colleague that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I would like to nominate Lauren Borcherding for this I Am CPS Core Values Award."
—Shouted out by Akilah Rodgers, Intervention Specialist, Roselawn Condon
Chris Clements, 6th-grade Math/Science Teacher, Silverton — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Chris Clements demonstrates the I Am CPS core values all year round every year, but to look at her this last quarter she has gone above and beyond. Chris puts her students first! She holds Google Meets multiple times a day every day. She collaborates with her teaching partner, Colleen Taylor. She also has a vertical alignment with the math department at Silverton including when siblings of her 6th-graders would have Google Meets as some students share a computer. She has been on the tech train and improving all of her technology skills including Flipgrid! She not only is teaching to make sure her students are ready for the transition to high school, she asks about their well being, safety and discusses the '7 Habits' during Google Meets and how they can apply these habits during this time. She truly cares about her students and families. She is committed to be her best and helps others do the same as she is always willing to lend a hand, an ear, or share ideas to reach students and their families. She has made many trips out delivering food boxes to our Silverton students and of course she has to throw in a math workbook as well for her 6th-graders! She is dedicated to student's learning. She does all of this and more; this is just a snapshot of Chris Clements, always wearing a smile, determined, focused and a heart of gold."
—Shouted out by Erica Eichler, 3rd grade Math/Science Teacher, Silverton
Anna Tewell, Student Success Center Tutor Coordinator, Walnut Hills High School/SSC — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Anna is amazing! During the school year she supports the learning of many students, while also coordinating tutors for the Student Success Center. She provides various instructional strategies to help students learn the material at a pace that meets them where they are. In addition, she goes above and beyond to meet, collaborate, and discuss student success and how as a team we can come together to support our students where they are and to help make them successful! During this time of COVID-19 she has created an Amazon Wish List for supplies and educational materials that will help our students. She has delivered materials to our students and continues to support the students; going over and above her daily required duties to provide supports for our students and their families! Anna is an inspiration to us all; an asset to Walnut Hills High School and to the CPS Community!"
—Shouted out by Jessica Smitson, Assistant Principal, Walnut Hills High School
Julie Rachford, ELA Teacher, Virtual High School — I Care, I Collaborate
"Julie took food to students and their families when remote learning first started. She knew that the students couldn't get work done if they were hungry."
—Shouted out by Kimberly Price, Intervention Specialist, Virtual High School
Janet Berlove, Accountant, Treasurer’s Department — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Janet is such a crucial part of our Budget Accounting Team. She is just a wealth of knowledge and is always available to share it when I or others have questions. She demonstrates that she cares, collaborates, and commits to success, and because of this she makes it possible for me to continuously improve."
—Shouted out by Jamin Toran, Accountant, Treasurer's Department
Erin Kernohan, QI Manager, Strategy Quality Improvement — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Erin is the epitome of the I am CPS Core Values. She explains the Quality Improvement Process in a fun yet engaging way. She's collaborative and thorough. Erin connects the QI Process to real life situations so I'm able to retain the content. Love her use of videos in the trainings. Thank you Erin for making an overwhelming process feel achievable. I'm now excited about my upcoming QI Project!"
—Shouted out by Rolonda Smith, Employee Experience Manager, Talent Development
Elizabeth Kaye, ELA K-6 Instructional Coach, Roberts Academy — I Care, I Commit to Success
"Throughout this pandemic quarantine, Elizabeth Kaye has sent daily positive emails to all of Roberts School. Her daily emails focus on the day of week. A Sunday message: 'It's Sunday! I hope you taking some time for some much deserved self-care this weekend! Please get some rest and relax. You deserve it!' Friday, May 1, message: 'It is May 1st. It is the beginning of a new month. You have succeeded with online learning for a month. How do you feel? Think about when you started to where you are now. I am sure there were some bumps and hiccups along the way but you made it. You have succeeded! Things may not be perfect but look how many students you have reached. You are still making a difference in the lives of your students. Your students know you care about them. Please take a few minutes to breath, reflect, and give yourself a BIG pack on the back for a job well done! Thank you for your hard work!' Her emails also contain inspiring quotes like 'Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible — Helen Keller' and 'Hope is that thing inside us that insists despite all the evidence to the contrary, that something better waits for us if we have the courage to reach for it and to work for it and to fight for it — President Obama.' Her daily emails conclude with a funny joke. Where do pencils go on vacation? Pencil-vania. Why couldn't the pony sing a lullaby? She was a little horse. Her compassion and empathy during these trying times are inspirational. Thanks for striving to keep our spirits high and strong as our schools struggle tirelessly to educate and respond to our families needs. With her mission to foster wellness for us, the caretakers, she generates the positive energy we need to respond to our families at home and our school families. Thanks for being a bright spot during these unprecedented times!"
—Shouted out by Linda Westendorf, ESL Specialist, Roberts Academy
Mrs. Anderson, Mrs. Williams, Ms. Barner, First Grade Team, Mt. Airy — I Care, I Collaborate, I Commit to Success
"The first grade team at Mt. Airy has worked together to reach all of their learners on Class Dojo. They upload video, lessons and even have virtual meetings. They graciously let me look at their Dojo classrooms for inspiration. They are amazing! These ladies make me proud to be part of CPS!"
—Shouted out by Marcy Berns, Reading Specialist, Please Ridge Montessori
Brent Langhorne, Asia Bradford, Ricky Miller, Mary Hawkins, Athletics Department — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"This group has done a phenomenal job of stepping up and overseeing the Collaborate & Care campaign in addition to their normal duties in Athletics. They have collaborated with a group of ADs that have also assisted in the efforts of taking care of our kids and families. It is an honor to work with them!"
—Shouted out by Josh Hardin, Athletics Manager, Athletics Department
Jennifer Smith, Tech Specialist Teacher, Woodford — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit To Success
"Jen is an amazing problem solver and knows the answer to any tech question. She has been so helpful through this time for learning and trying so much new technology. She is always ready to help and encouraging just like she would be with our students."
—Shouted out by Karen Ater-Linser, Visual Art Teacher, Woodford
Performance and Accountability Department — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit To Success
"The Performance and Accountability Department works together as a cohesive department to support one another. We recently held our first virtual meeting which was attended by 200+ Attendees including Support Specialists, Principals, Administrators and Leadership. This event was a success due to a collaboration with Customer Care, ITM and inter-departmental Teamwork. All were willing to step in as needed to provide support visually and behind the scenes. I am appreciative that even though we are separated we are united in our efforts to work together, build up each other and provide support."
—Shouted out by Ebony Johnson, Administrative Secretary, Performance and Accountability
Julie Faller, Tech Teacher, Dater Montessori — I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve
"Julie has been collaborating with teachers to help them connect with every student. Whether it is a Schoology tip or training to the switch over to Google Meets and all of the extensions, Julie has been forwarding emails, attaching trainings — both district and You Tube — suggesting formats and groupings within Groupwise, sending extension links for improving our Google meets, to hosting chats and Meets with her to help. She has absolutely empowered me to do lessons daily with my students and to increase my Schoology usage and have better organization. Without her, this last month would have been miserable. I know you can't surprise her at school if she wins, but she deserves a 'Shout Out' whole heartedly. Our staff is providing better education because of her!"
—Shouted out by Erika Robin Thierauf, Teacher, Dater Montessori
Matthew McKinney, ITM — I Care, I Collaborate, I Commit to Success
"Hello team, I want to share my spectacular experience today with Mr. McKinney from ITHelp who provided assistance to me for over 2 1/2 hours. He remained with me through conference calls, home interruptions, disconnections and re-connections. You can only imagine how it difficult it is to have your work communication down at such a time as this. His patience and flexibility is admired and brought our 'We Care' focus to life. I had an outstanding employee experience and just couldn't keep it to myself. Thanks again for powering me up with the required technology to do this great work. My day is better because of Mr. McKinney!"
—Shouted out by Belinda Tubbs-Wallace, Principal, Rockdale Academy
Jeff & Ray, ITM — I Care, I Collaborate, I Commit to Success
"Just wanted to give a quick shout to Jeff & Ray. They took excellent care of me yesterday (retrieving my device & ensuring my VPN was set up). Wonderful examples of #WECARE & #WECOLLABORATE."
—Shouted out by Rolonda Smith, Employee Experience Manager
Information and Technology Management Department — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"The ITM Department is spending countless hours preparing our staff for an unprecedented change to our work environments. By setting up a 'triage' unit in the Education Center, they patiently helped our staff to get computers and technology ready for working from home. Their services are critical to allow us to continue meeting our goals and serving our students, parents and stakeholders, and they deserve a Shout Out!"
—Shouted out by Teasha O’Connell, Web Editor Specialist, Office of Communication and Engagement
Michael Beasley, Security Assistant, College Hill Fundamental Academy — I Care, I Collaborate, I Commit to Success
"Mr. Beasley always puts the kids and their safety first. He strives to have positive relationships with them and staff. In this photo Mr. Beasley is sitting on the floor with a student who was having a difficult morning. She was struggling to calm down and Mr. Beasley didn't hesitate to do what he needed to for her to calm down and remain calm until her grandmother arrived."
—Shouted out by Susan McManus, Senior Support Specialist, College Hill Fundamental Academy
Shon Shinn, Teacher, Ethel Taylor Academy — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Ms. Shinn is a third-grade teacher at Ethel Taylor Academy and has a proven record of success with her students on the MAP/AIR testing. She has transformed her classroom into an animal habitat with chinchillas, hamsters and fish. She has opened her door to the school, including my kindergartners to come and feed all the animals. She is a teacher advocate as she serves at our CFT building representative. She comes early and leaves late in order to fill out reports for the staff she represents. She dresses up in book themes for her students when the finish a novel. She has come dress in a host of characters during the past 10 years. She is on our budgeting committee and serves as a leader throughout our school. She is an inspiration to her students and to the staff around her."
—Shouted out by April Washington, Teacher, Ethel Taylor Academy
Nicole Sherwood, Administrative Assistant, Dater Montessori — I Care, I Commit to Success
"Nicole does a great job of managing our front desk. She cares about the kids, gets to know them by name and is so respectful when it comes to the parents. She also cares about the staff. She knew that I was stressed out about a transportation problem that I was having with a student and the was so committed to helping me find out why this student wasn't on his special bus and why he wasn't assigned a bus for the ride home. She kept calling and working on it so that I didn't have to and she followed up with the parents. Just taking the one things off of my plate was so caring and being relentless with calling to find out why his transportation had not been fulfilled show deep commitment to that student, his parents and to me."
—Shouted out by Robin Thierauf, Teacher, Dater Montessori
Nancy Monak, 6-9 Teacher, Pleasant Ridge Montessori — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Nancy is always making others feel important and she always puts our students first. She is happy to help any teacher that asks. We work together to be our best that we can be."
—Shouted out by Marcy Berns, Reading Specialist, Pleasant Ridge Montessori
Rodney Bowden, Intervention Specialist, Robert A. Taft High School — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Mr. Bowden, is the ideal co-worker and educator. He is student-centered, and focused not only on the child, but family/community, too. He knows 'It takes a village to raise a child.' He stresses in his daily conversations with staff and students' to strive for academic excellence and that the first step is by coming to school and work everyday! Mr. Bowden is continuing to learn by attending various workshops, going back to school, and networking via community to keep up with today's academic demands. He is a family man and educating his children via Cincinnati Public Schools. He is often found helping co-workers and administration with all facets of our lives, too. He recently loss his father and a first cousin within days of each other. Their deaths had a tremendous effect on him. Through it all, he repeatedly called to see how things were going with our children at Taft and even with me! A friend — no! 'An Angel' who watches over all of here at Taft I.T High School."
—Shouted out by Jacqueline Cunningham, Instructor Assistant, Robert A. Taft High School
Kevin Rosebrook, Manager of Professional Learning, Talent Development — I Care, I Continuously Improve
"Kevin is a role model for putting customers first and constantly finding ways to make planning for professional learning easier. He actively engages departments in what would be easier so that we can focus on what we know best, curriculum and instruction. We are very thankful for his responsiveness and being solutions-oriented."
—Shouted out by Emily Campbell, Director, Curriculum and Instruction
Bobby Lynn, Security, Gamble Montessori Elementary — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Every day Mr. Lynn comes to work and gives his all to make staff members and students smile! He goes above and beyond his security role. He mentors students and is always willing to be the reward as part of a behavior plan if a student meets their goals. He can even be found outside during dismissal leading his own version of the Cha Cha slide to keep the students entertained while waiting to be picked up. We love Mr. Lynn and we’re so lucky to have him here at Gamble Montessori Elementary!!"
—Shouted out by Rachel Schuler, School Psych, Gamble Montessori Elementary
Kathy Jones, Payroll Technician, Treasurer's Office — I Commit to Success
"Recently, we had to re-print and send updated W-2s to a few employees in each school. When I asked for her advice on the best way to do this, she not only had great ideas, but also jumped in to assist. She took over most of the tasks and ensured the work was done as quickly as possible. This was a HUGE help to me and the Treasurer’s Office!"
—Shouted out by Michael Gustin, Director of Business Technology, Treasurer's Office
Julie Faller, Integrated Tech Specialist, Dater Montessori School — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Julie goes above and beyond her job in every way. She works extremely hard to help everyone, from writing up the team minutes, helping staff members with technology issues, working beyond her hours to run the coffee shop including training students to run the coffee shop, learning valuable job skills. Julie is always considering the perspective of all of her colleagues and helps everyone to understand each others points of view to create a respectful and understanding work environment. I could go on and on!"
—Shouted Out by Andrew Houston, Art Teacher, Dater Montessori School
Meg Walters, Math Teacher, Dater Montessori School — I Care
"Patti cares about every member of the Dater community. She treats each child as an important individual, and often makes accommodations for them that the teachers working in her community have overlooked. Patti arrives an hour before she needs to report each day, often works through her lunch to help a friend with a Unity Dinner project or Kindness Door, and is frequently seen helping children in her free time. Patti treats the adults at Dater with the same kindness. She bakes for a friend going through hard times, makes a sign for EVERY special event held at Dater, and organizes ALL the letters to our 6th-grade students when they head off to Camp Joy each fall. Patti spent summer days painting our cafeteria wall, and organizes a school wide art project for our front lobby each school year. Dater Montessori is BLESSED to have Patti Haid. She cares."
—Shouted Out by Patti Haid, Paraprofessional, Dater Montessori School
Tina Ray, Science Teacher, Dater Montessori — I Care, I Commit to Success
"Tina Ray cares about her students and my students. She keeps her room open in the afternoons for students that have basketball later on and don't have a way to get to practice. She is constantly thinking of and executing ways to engage her students in science, which includes bubble labs, and having several different pets in her room. She allows students to be the scientist before encouraging critical thinking through the scientific method. She goes to science meetings at LaunchEd and then brings back science books for my level students. She is committed to success because every year she increases her science scores, plans different ways to allow students to access the science curriculum and works hard to differentiate instruction for those students that need support. Ms. Ray stays late for school activities and in fact, she and her husband worked the entire Unity Fair event, which is a celebration for the different cultures that exists in our school community. She, as a member of the PTN arranged entertainment for the even which included, dancers, musicians and a step club from Oyler. It was amazing."
—Shouted Out by Robin Thierauf, Montessori Teacher, Dater Montessori
Tamala Paul, Clerical Specialist, Human Resources — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Tamala Paul goes above and beyond her duties as a Clerical Specialist. Being on the Clerical Resource Team is a big responsibility and Tamala always makes sure that she, as well as the rest of us on the team, are always committed and dedicated to our jobs. She uses the core values of CPS each and everyday and for every assignment that we go to. Not only does she care about the students at CPS, she cares about her team members. She always makes sure we have what we need and will go out of her way to make sure we get it. I have gotten calls from Tamala just to make sure I am good. If and when I need help, I can call Tam and she makes sure to get me the help I need or the person I need to speak with. Tam makes sure we get the proper training we need so we will better serve our schools and departments. She always reminds us that we are a team (feels more like family), and not only are we committed to the district, we are committed to each other. Tam is also thoughtful when she thinks of us and gives welcome back to school care packages. I am proud to have Tamala Paul for our Team Leader. Tam always tells me she wants us to be our best selves. Thanks Tam for all of your help."
—Shouted Out by Sonya Gaines, Lead Secretary Clerical Resource Team, Human Resources
Rebecca Lombardi, School Counselor, Shroder High School — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Although Ms. Lombardi has only been a part of the Shroder staff for a year, her impact is immeasurable. She continually cares for all staff and students, even at the most stressful times. She is kind, compassionate and inspires students to be goal oriented and reach their potential. She took an entire week to sit in the 9th-grade hall to meet every single 9th-grade student, discuss their goals and think about potential action steps. She continually tries to recruit new programs and supports for our students to be successful in academics and social emotional skills. Even though she, in my opinion, has one of the most stressful jobs in the building, she is committed to our staff and students every day. In a short time, Ms. Lombardi has made a lasting impact on the Shroder community."
—Shouted Out by Erin Sienicki, 9th-grade ELA Teacher, Shroder High School
Cheryl Ingram, Senior Support Specialist, Evanston — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"My office partner is committed to my success. Cheryl Ingram made sure I understood my job by helping me with one on one training. Before I attended any training offered by CPS, I have an understanding of how to do the job in PowerSchool and Business Plus. She strives to do her best by helping me strive in my workplace responsible. When I do attend training, I feel like I have an upper hand due to her (I Collaborate) value. She also tells me, 'I want to teach you things that I had to learn on my own.' Mrs. Ingram is committed to the success of the Evanston staff and students. She has worked for CPS Hoffman/Evanston academy for more than 20 years. After retiring as a paraprofessional she returns to Evanston academy in a new role. Together we constantly learn, innovate and adapt. We share information daily and this helps the first office run smoothly. I'm so lucky to have an office partner whose core value (I Commit To Success) cares about my success as a senior support specialist. CPS is lucky to have such a dedicated person. I'm thankful for her leadership and SOARR Expectations."
—Shouted Out by Jackie Rivers, Senior Support Specialist, Evanston Academy
Jesse Risch, Custodian, AMIS — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Jesse Risch goes above and beyond his daily custodial duties at AMIS. He genuinely cares about the students, teachers and staff. He always has a positive attitude, has a giving and grateful heart. He stepped in to coach the boys' basketball team last year when their original coach was transferred to another school. He remained as their coach this year and has led the team to victory winning a trophy for the boys and the school. His sincere and hard-working spirit has made Jesse Risch a role model for not only the boys' team, but for all of us at AMIS as well. As he is continuously improving in his position, he has been promoted, and will leave our community at AMIS. He will be greatly missed at AMIS, but will continue to be an outstanding member of his next school community."
—Shouted Out by Dianna Schweitzer, ESL teacher at AMIS
Nyema Gray, Executive Secretary, Treasurer Department — I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Nyema did an awesome job of coordinating our State of the Team meeting to discuss the Gallup Survey results. She created and ran a couple of icebreakers, coordinated lunch, and stepped up at the end to make sure the day’s final task was completed."
—Shouted Out by Mike Gustin, Director of Business Technology, Treasurer Department
Denaisha Thomas, Second Grade Teacher, LEAP Academy — I Care
"Ms. Thomas is an incredibly dedicated teacher that is wholeheartedly committed to having high behavioral and academic expectations for students. She has many newcomer EL students in her classroom and she dedicated herself to differentiating curriculum and proving supports for students so they can access grade level work. She goes above and beyond in her instruction and is an exceptional teacher."
—Shouted Out by Carmen Hayes, ESL Specialist, LEAP Academy
Polly Nortman, Administrative Assistant, Dater Montessori — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Polly reflects all of the CPS core values. Our school would not work without her. We have a wonderful principal, but Polly is like the engineer—she knows how to do everything, who gets it done, what we need to fill out or do next and where it needs to go. She handles so many things including, being willing to work with me to make new posters and readers for our staff for Wilson's Fundations. She puts students first, collaborating with teachers on how to do field trips and what forms need to be submitted when. She always strives to find the right answer and will ask clarifying questions and get a response for you. She is always committed to accurate answers and aids us in so many ways. She even takes care of two turtles in our office that the kids love to watch. Thank you, Polly!"
—Shouted Out by Erika Robin Thierauf, Teacher, Dater Montessori
Julie Harris, Intervention Specialist, Winton Hills Academy — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Julie always puts students first! She often misses lunch or her planning time to make sure that her student's needs are met. She makes sure to check in on her team members when she can, and always takes the time to say something positive. She collaborates with staff and parents to make sure communication is clear, concise and frequent. Julie is always up to learn or try something new with students or staff. Julie strives to be the best every day for her students and has the motivation and drive to help other staff members feel the same way. She is a ray of sunshine and the kids love her!"
—Shouted Out by Gina Ottlinger, Intervention Specialist, Winton Hills Academy
Baily Miller, Fifth-Grade Math Teacher, Pleasant Hill Academy — I Care
"Ms. Miller cares about every single one of her students and puts her heart into teaching every day. She is ready to greet her students at her door every single day with a smile and a hug, and goes out of her way to make sure that all students are recognized and celebrated for their accomplishments. She is a fantastic motivational speaker and gets the kids pumped up and excited about learning! Not only does she care about her students, she also cares about her fellow staff. As one of her team members, I know I can come to her at any time with questions or concerns and she is always willing to lend a hand. Ms. Miller is truly a team player who roots for her students at every step of the way, very clearly exemplifying the I CARE value each and every day."
—Shouted Out by Robin Griffin, 5th Grade ELA Teacher, Pleasant Hill Academy
Mary Nie, Teacher, Sayler Park — I Care
"Mary Nie cares, collaborates, continuously improves, and is committed to the success of Sayler Park students and staff. Mary involves her students in real world applications by giving them real world experiences in Sayler Park school. She has all of her students involved in so many projects that serve ALL in the school. Her students run the recycling program, they deliver the fresh fruit, they bring trays and the trash can for our preschool lunch in the classroom, AND they deliver our snack each day. Mary involves her students throughout the school in ways too numerous to mention. Mary is preparing these MH students for success in LIFE, not just school. Mary is also a committed coach for several of the sports teams at Sayler Park school and is most definitely committed to winning but more importantly good sportsmanship. Mary continues to improve and grow each day along with the students and staff who are so fortunate to have her as a teacher and colleague."
—Shouted Out by Susan Breitenstein, Teacher, Sayler Park
Michael Cabral, History Teacher, Dater High School — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Our school had a major issue with our technology last year, and Mr. Cabral is the one that everyone goes to for help. When we needed to override our computer cart distribution, he stepped up to the plate to coordinate our technology and ensure that we hold high standards on our technology use. He will never turn away another teacher who needs help, brainstorms solutions, does research to make sure we have the best systems and pushes us all to be our best. This is all OUTSIDE of his role as an excellent lead teacher with incredible AP Psych scores! Dater would not be the same without him and his efforts and he does not get the credit he deserves."
—Shouted Out by Akshayaa Venkatakrishnan, Teacher, Dater High School
Kate O'Malley, Intervention Specialist, Pleasant Hill Academy — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Kate puts all of her students first. She works with a specific population of students and does not let extremely challenging behaviors discourage her. She is always striving to learn and goes above and beyond to make sure her students are successful. She collaborates well with parents, teachers, and administrators. Being a first year teacher and bringing a very positive attitude to work every day inspires all of those around her. Pleasant Hill is very lucky to have Kate!"
—Shouted Out by Marie Turnbull, School Psychologist, Pleasant Hill Academy
Paul "Butch" Gibson, My Tomorrow Tech, Hartwell (Various) — I Care
"I arrived at Hartwell School in the afternoon to host a group meeting. Butch was in the main office and when I arrived I explained to the individual at the front desk that I would be needing to borrow a cart (if possible), as I had a car load of items to bring into the building. Butch immediately jumped in, offered to assist and scoured the school for a large cart. He then went to my car and assisted me with loading all of the items and pushed the cart into the school and to the location I needed. He unloaded all of boxes/bags and on his way out, met my coworker, whom he helped bring in things as well. He showed that he truly cared, by going above and beyond and I do not know how I would have managed without him. Thank you is just not enough. He represents CPS and shows that he is there to help those in need. I am so thrilled to be a part of an organization that I can work alongside with employees like Butch, who go out of their way to care and be there in a time of need."
—Shouted Out by Adrienne Maka, Culture Specialist, Talent Development
Lauren Roberts and Jakob Snyder, Director of Internal Audit and Intern — I Care
"Lauren and Jakob cleaned up a conference room we had been using for years, by removing the accumulated clutter and flip chart paper from the walls so the room can be used by other groups. This is a task I have wanted to do for months, but haven't found a chance to tackle. They did a great job of organizing things and Jakob even typed up the flip chart information into a Google Doc so that we can easily re-use it. By going the extra mile, they really showed they care about their fellow employees and our workspaces."
—Shouted Out by Michael Gustin, Director of Business Technology, Treasurer's Office
Megan Hodge, 3-6 Montessori Teacher, Dater Montessori — I Collaborate
"Megan is someone that I can go to when I need support for my students that are struggling in first grade. She gives me ideas for what to do with them—projects that are accessible on their level, she shares work and she has even opened her room to a student who needed to have some remediation two times a week. I know that I am going to get great advice when I come to her."
—Shouted Out by Robin Thierauf, Montessori Teacher, Dater Montessori
Andrea Tapp, Executive Secretary, Superintendent's Office — I Collaborate
"I received an urgent call about a printing issue that was delaying a very important mailing for Transportation. I realized that there was an issue that needed an Executive Secretary's expertise. I immediately started heading down to the Superintendent's Office, but out of nowhere Andrea Tapp appeared like clockwork. I explained the dilemma to Andrea. Andrea went to work and before I knew it everything was fine. Andrea has always been helpful and kind. She is always professional in the ways she carries herself. She is definitely a huge asset to CPS!"
—Shouted Out by Dennis Smith, Device Administrator, ITM
Alian Blanton, Paraprofessional, Sands Montessori — I Care
"Alain pours patience, love and kindness into her students and coworkers. She is quick to share a smile or encouraging words. Her amazing whiteboard illustrations make the ELA space outside of her room a cheerful, welcoming place. Thank you for sharing your talents, Alain!"
—Shouted Out by Colleen Noble, Gifted Intervention Specialist, Sands Montessori
Kathie Siemer, 4th grade ELA/SS Teacher, Rees E. Price — I Care, I Continuously Improve
"She is constantly striving to help her students succeed not only in school but also in their home lives. She gently nudges them toward success by consistently using real life examples so students have a grasp, she encourages them with love and kindness."
—Shouted Out by Lori Todd, Elementary SS Coach, Curriculum
Lead Secretaries & Senior Support Specialists, ALL Schools — I Care, I Collaborate
"In recognition of Principal Appreciation we planned to surprise the Principals during their October Cluster Meetings. We put out the call to Lead Secretaries and Senior Support Specialists asking them to utilize the We are CPS Thank You Card to collect thank you sentiments from their school communities and THEY DELIVERED. Principals received cards, notes and posters from students, staff and partners. Some Principals went back to their buildings to find their office doors, walls and conference tables covered with even more thank you notes. True examples of living out the We Care & We Collaborate Core Values. This is proof that we can do great and mighty things when we come together. Thank you Lead Secretaries and Senior Support Specialists for your partnership. We appreciate you!"
—Shouted Out by Rolonda Smith, Employee Experience Manager, Talent Development
CPS Substitute Teachers, Dater High School — I Care, I Commit to Success
"I would like to give a shout out to the CPS Substitute Teachers who proved to the students of Dater that they care & they are committed to the success of safety. With 14 positions open and 11 subs in the building, they successfully navigated a two-hour lockdown — NOT A DRILL — with discipline and compassion. Never having gone through a drill or A.L.I.C.E. training, they followed direct orders, quieted and calmed students, and assured the safety of all in their care! How fortunate CPS is to have them. Thank you, Cincinnati Substitute Teachers!"
—Shouted Out by Julie Jencks, Teacher, Dater High School
Brittany Bates, Kindergarten ELA Teacher, Cheviot Teacher — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Ms. Bates is an enthusiastic leader in our school. She is one of those people who consistently does the right thing even when she thinks no one is watching. But, I've witnessed how she cares for and teaches her students even when the going gets tough. She is a team player who strives to offer not only the best instruction to children but she shares her knowledge so other teachers can be successful. Ms. Bates is self-motivated and is constantly learning how to improve instruction for her students. She's a great teacher!"
—Shouted Out by Kimberly Phillips, Intervention Specialist, Cheviot Elementary
Lindsay Hetzel, ESL Teacher, Western Hills University High School — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Lindsay Hetzel is an amazing English as a Second Language teacher. This school year she went from being a part-time ESL Teacher at West High to our full-time ESL Teacher, and we are so lucky to have her. Our EL population is growing by leaps and bounds this school year. Ms. Hetzel exhibits I Am CPS core values in the following ways; I Care: Ms. Hetzel makes sure all her students have the needed materials to be successful in the classroom from assigning computers to buying the needed school supplies, as well as clothes and winter coats. I Collaborate: Ms. Hetzel has presented at staff meetings as well as team meetings to help guide general education and special education teachers when they need to make accommodations for our EL students. She also works with the general education teachers to assist with lessons and assessments. She also collaborates with other ESL teachers in the district to get advice on how to continuously improve our ESL program. I Continuously Improve: Ms. Hetzel has brought a lot of technology into the classroom to assist students who are just learning English. She has taught them how to use different apps on their phone Googletranslate and Duolingo to help with their English language acquisition. She spends countless hours translating assignments and assessments for students when the work can't be digitally translated. She continuously adapts to her ever changing student population as well as accommodating students who pop into her room when they need extra support on assignments. I Commit To Success: Ms. Hetzel always has a smiling face and a welcoming classroom. She is always willing to help her students succeed and help her colleagues be successful when teaching our EL students."
—Shouted Out by Angie Moore, Intervention Specialist, Western Hills University High School
Jamie Kuhlmeier, Intervention Specialist, Kilgour — I Care, I Commit to Success
"Jamie has a cheerful and positive attitude and always comes to work ready to make a difference. She is a wonderful colleague to collaborate with and is always willing to work with staff to ensure that her students are receiving the best education possible. Jamie is a passionate teacher who truly puts everything she has into preparing her students to be successful in and outside of her classroom. She helps accommodate the changing needs of her students by going above and beyond to differentiate her lessons in innovative ways which allows her students to access the general curriculum. She is committed to putting her students first and is an advocate for her students. She is a leader within her school building and strives to do her best every day, no matter how tough it can get. Jamie deserves to be recognized for her continued effort, commitment and success as an intervention specialist!"
—Shouted Out by Jordan Richardson, EVE Intervention Specialist, ECE Diagnostic Team
Sarah Lord and Elizabeth Johnson, Principal and Assistant Principal, Sands Montessori — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve, I Commit to Success
"Sarah Lord and Elizabeth Johnson, administrators at Sands Montessori, demonstrate the I Am CPS core values of I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve and I Commit to Success. I Care: They work hard to maintain a positive culture at Sands Montessori where students can have equitable access to the supports they need. I Collaborate: They lead and collaborate in a variety of school-based teams to ensure that educational services and data collection are comprehensive and designed with diverse input. I Continuously Improve: They have worked hard with the school to refine the PBIS plan and implement it with fidelity this school year. I Commit to Success: They set reasonable, high expectations for the school to achieve goals and continuously improve."
—Shouted Out by Makenzie Morse, School Psychologist, Department of Student Services
Stephanie Wiggins, Ty Rice, Mary Pat Yater, David Maina, LaRita Cornet, Treasurer's Office — I Commit to Success
"During a very hectic time of staff leaving and on sick leave, these women and David stepped it up to help out — whether it was entering invoices, calling vendors or just lending a helping hand where needed. Thank you!"
—Shouted Out by Teresa Campbell, AP Supervisor, Treasurer's Office
Sheronda Harris, Long Term Sub, Roll Hill — I Care, I Collaborate, I Commit to Success
"I would like to shout out Sheronda, who has exhibited the I Care, I Collaborate and I Commit to Success core values."
—Shouted Out by Peter Harris, Security, Sands Montessori
Dan Ley, School Psychologist, Department of Student Services — I Care, I Collaborate, I Continuously Improve
"Dan demonstrates 'I Care' through taking the time to assist new Head Start ECE team members in understanding procedures. He has provided us with resources and has always been available to answer questions. Dan demonstrates 'I Collaborate' through taking the time to hear team members input regarding procedures and scheduling monthly case coordination meetings so that we are all on the same page. Dan demonstrates 'I Continuously Improve' through utilizing new resources to enact positive changes in the procedures to improve the team's service delivery."
—Shouted Out by Makenzie Morse, School Psychologist, Department of Student Services
Custodial Staff, Parker Woods Montessori — I Commit to Success
"Our custodial staff has worked so very hard to assist in making our school look as beautiful as possible. We can see our reflection in the floors because they are that reflective. They managed to do this even though we had so many people in and out of our building almost all summer."
—Shouted Out by Nicole Lindsey, Librarian, Parker Woods Montessori
Customer Care Center, Education Center — I Care, I Collaborate
"The Customer Care Center Team goes above and beyond every day. They receive and address parent questions and concerns with grace and a smile. This group truly embodies the I am CPS spirit of I Care and I Collaborate. The line was so long yesterday that it bottlenecked into the main hallway. But these ladies never broke a sweat — they pressed on. From Ms. Donna to Kelly at the front desk to Kathy on the switchboard to Marcene, Christl, Angela, Pat and Sherri — with each one enrolling students to fill seats in the classrooms. During this busy season, they are staying late and working weekends to ensure OUR enrollment stays up. Hats off to Leslie and Jeneen for the team spirit you have created. It matters and it shows!"
—Shouted Out by Rolonda Smith, Employee Experience Manager, Talent Development
Employee Stories
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I am CPS Shout-Outs — 2016-2017