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 December the winning staff members were Aydaly Juarez (Elementary) and Dani Jablonski (JR/SR High School).
Aydaly Juarez
Aydaly Juarez is the best when it comes to making sure we all have what we need to keep our Holyoke Elementary School running smoothly all the time. She’s kind, helpful and welcoming. From finding a sub after you realize you can't come to work, to replacing toner, making calls home, updating Infinite Campus, bulletin boards, interpreting/translating, drills, and everything in between.
When we get a new student she makes sure the right paperwork is completed, the student has supplies needed, and teachers have enough information to accommodate them. If the student is a Language Learner, she makes sure that we are aware of the student's specific needs and makes contact with the previous schools for appropriate paperwork so we can start providing services right away.
This month though, I was especially impressed with how she carried herself and stepped up during our gas leak which required us to activate our reunification drill. She listened to another staff member when concerns arose. She took it seriously and called the relevant staff to handle the situation. She found the right support on the spot. I firmly believe that things ran so smoothly because of her ability to act fast and appropriately. She followed protocol even though both of our administrators were not present. I am very proud and happy that she works in the district and takes care of us all. Her work and dedication to our students, staff, administration and community doesn’t go unnoticed.
Ms. Juarez is the epitome of our SOAR and RISE guidelines in our school. I am so lucky to call her a colleague and a friend. - Mrs. Kammer
Dani Jablonski
Dani Jablonski is a truly exceptional educator whose dedication, compassion, and commitment to her profession serve as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing her. As a respected and admired member of our community, Jablonski's exemplary qualities make her a role model for both her colleagues and her students.
One of the most striking characteristics that sets Jablonski apart is her unwavering kindness and respect for those around her. She consistently demonstrates a genuine care and concern for her coworkers, treating them with the utmost dignity and appreciation. Jablonski's students, in turn, look up to her with admiration, recognizing the genuine care and support she provides them.
Jablonski's selfless nature is truly remarkable. She is always the first to volunteer her time and talents whenever there is a need, whether it be assisting with extracurricular activities, supporting her colleagues, or going the extra mile to ensure her students' success. Her willingness to give of herself, even without being asked, is a testament to her commitment to the teaching profession and her desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her.
Jablonski's positive attitude is truly infectious, uplifting the morale of the entire school community. Her colleagues and students alike are inspired by her enthusiasm and her ability to find good in even the most challenging situations. Jablonski's optimism and her ability to see the best in people make her a true asset to the school.
The school community is indeed fortunate to have an educator of Jablonski's caliber. Her dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence serve as a shining example of exceptional teaching. Jablonski's impact on the lives of her students and her colleagues is immeasurable, and her dedication is an inspiration for all.
Both of these staff members were honored at the School Board meeting on January 21st.