West Bend — On May 1, four employees of the West Bend School District were honored with the Rolfs Educational Foundation Award in recognition of their many contributions as educators. Each award comes with a $1,000 gift.
This is the 52nd annual Rolfs Educational Foundation awards recognition and Peg Rolfs of the Rolfs Educational Foundation announced the award winners at school celebrations.
The award goes to a teaching staff member in each of the four categories: elementary school, middle school, high school, and special services. Nominations for the award can be submitted by students in grades 5-12, parents, community members, peers, or administration. Qualified staff must have completed a minimum of three years of employment, must not have received the award in the last two years, and must receive at least two nominations.
The 2023 winners include:
Sara has taught in the West Bend Schools for 25 years. She reaches out to all students in her classroom to ensure every child realizes how important they are individually, as well as part of the classroom community. She makes it a priority to ensure all her students are given the opportunity to reach their potential and beyond. She is not only their teacher, but their support system, cheerleader, and comedian. Her students know they are in a class where they will be respected, encouraged, and held accountable. The leadership team at Green Tree greatly values Sara’s input and her dedication to keeping all discussions student focused. She is a leader in her classroom, with grade level peers, building coworkers, and with district staff.
Jackie has served the West Bend Schools for 22 years. She is dedicated to Silverbrook and the entire teaching profession. She goes above and beyond to make classroom activities meaningful in the daily lives of students. Her communication, enthusiasm, and interest for learning, in and out of the classroom, is seen by everyone. Jackie’s students learn and grow at incredible rates. Her dedication to her students is unparalleled. Many of her students say she’s the greatest teacher they’ve ever had because she showed them how to learn and how to believe in themselves the way she believes in them. Jackie actively participates in developing and updating curriculum. She is an expert in her field and her input into curricular decisions is deeply respected by her peers.
As a teacher in the West Bend School for 31 years, Shelly defines what a dynamic educator is. She is respected by students, peers, and the administration for her talents and professionalism. Her classroom would best be characterized as having the following elements: trust, a sense of belonging, meaningful content, multiple modalities for instructional delivery with an engaging emphasis on technology and personalized learning. She is a recognized leader in the high school who volunteers to serve on committees, curriculum projects, in-service programs, and at workshops. Shelly “brings to life” the Spanish language in formats that are accessible, fun, and pragmatic. She is recognized as a building leader and is a member of the High School Building Leadership Team.
Jackie has served the West Bend Schools for 16 years. Her love for teaching is evident
everywhere you look in Jackson, including not only in her own classroom, but in all of the
classrooms, in the hallways and everywhere she meets a student. Jackie listens to the needs of both students and staff and goes above and beyond to support their needs. Her compassion for and dedication to others is on full display each day through her positive attitude and continual enthusiasm to learn more. Jackie is knowledgeable about all topics related to literacy and absolutely LOVES everything about reading. Her expertise and passion about this topic is evident whenever you discuss this subject with her. Jackie is always willing to help, give tips and collaborate with anyone in helping to stretch student’s minds.