One sign of a good hard worker is an attitude that says, the only recognition I need is the compensation I am due. There are other workers who feel like their expressions of gratitude or acknowledgement for hard work increase their sense of value to the organization.
The Holyoke School District has a long tradition of showing appreciation to staff members by participating in events like Classified Staff Week, National Principals Month, Teacher Appreciation Week, and many more. The district also recognizes teachers for every five years of service they give the district and for the last 15 years have awarded excellence in the educational profession with the Emerald Awards.
Continuing with that tradition the administration and board of education has created the Staff Member of the Month Program. During the month staff members have the opportunity to nominate one of their peers who has demonstrated respect, integrity, safety, excellence, ownership or achievement (RISE or SOAR) during their expected or non-expected roles, duties or has gone above and beyond their normal daily duties. From there two staff members will be selected and invited to a School Board Meeting to be recognized.
For the month of November the winning staff members were Tarah Priddy (Elementary) and Kali Hines (JR/SR High School).
Tarah Priddy
Tarah Priddy has gone above and beyond in mentoring me as a new teacher last year. This year, when I unexpectedly had surgery, she completed my lesson plans, slides, and helped the sub be prepared. It was a huge relief to know she was there to take care of things when I couldn’t be. She is always kind, helpful, positive, and friendly. It’s a joy and a pleasure to work with her.
Priddy shows ownership by doing what is best for her students to learn. She shows respect regularly to all staff members, parents, and students.
A staff member who always has a smile on her face is Mrs. Priddy. The students are excited to go to school and enjoy the creative lessons she uses such as being a doctor during math! We are grateful for Mrs. Priddy.
Kali Hines
Kali Hines deserves to be recognized as Staff of the Month for her unwavering dedication and outstanding support to our school district. Hines is known for her eagerness to help everyone around her, constantly offering her assistance with a positive attitude. Whether it’s in the classroom, in the hallways, or beyond the school walls, she is always the first to step up when a call for help goes out, embodying the spirit of teamwork and community.
Hines's support for her co-workers goes above and beyond her professional responsibilities. She is not only there for her colleagues in times of need within the school but extends her support to them personally as well. Her genuine care for those she works with fosters a sense of belonging and respect, creating an encouraging and cohesive environment for both staff and students. This level of dedication and kindness makes her an invaluable part of the team and a perfect choice for Staff of the Month.
Both of these staff members were honored at the School Board meeting on December 17th.