Shawnee Public Schools recently hosted its annual Excellence in Education Gala, celebrating the dedication, passion, and service of its educators and community partners. This celebration recognized the Outstanding Patron of Service Award, the Achievement in Excellence Support Employee recipients, the 2024-2025 Site Teachers of the Year, the Achievement in Excellence Support Employee of the Year and the District Teacher of the Year winner.
Melisa King, the 2023-24 District Teacher of the Year, shared an inspiring reflection on the significance of educators and support staff in shaping young lives. She emphasized the resilience and dedication of teachers, administrators, and all school employees, thanking them for their continued commitment to the work. Her speech honored the critical role each person plays in fostering a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for students.
“You are not just educators—you are world-shapers,” King stated in her heartfelt address. “Never doubt your importance. What you do is noble, necessary, and extraordinary.”
Dr. Teresa Wilkerson presented the Outstanding Patron of Service Award to Todd Janda for his extraordinary contributions to Shawnee Public Schools. His unwavering support and expertise have been instrumental in numerous infrastructure projects, from restoring power after storms to overseeing major athletic facility improvements. His dedication ensures that Shawnee students continue to learn and thrive in a well-equipped, safe environment.
Kristy Kellogg, the paraprofessional nominee, was honored as the Achievement in Excellence Support Employee of the Year. Known for her positivity and commitment, Kristy’s colleagues praised her willingness to go above and beyond for students and staff alike. “Kristy will always be a safe place, and she genuinely loves everyone. Her smile is contagious,” shared a fellow staff member.
Shawnee Public Schools named Serena Neely of Will Rogers Elementary as the 2024-2025 District Teacher of the Year. With four years of service in Shawnee, Serena is known for her passion for student success and her commitment to lifelong learning. As she works toward her Master’s in Educational Leadership, she continues to inspire both her students and colleagues.
The following employees were recognized for their contributions to Shawnee Public Schools:
Support Employee of the Year Awardees:
Para-Professional of the Year: Kristy Kellogg
Maintenance Employee of the Year: Adam Alloway
Transportation Employee of the Year: Tom Wondrock
Administrative Assistant of the Year: Letty Martinez
Custodial Employee of the Year: Sean Compton
Child Nutrition Employee of the Year: Cathleen Garnand
2024-2025 Site Teachers of the Year:
Shawnee Early Childhood Center: Rebecca McKey
Horace Mann Elementary: Janet Hopper
Jefferson Elementary: Lacy Arnold
Sequoyah Elementary: Taryn Burks
Will Rogers Elementary: Serena Neely
Shawnee Middle School: Emily Barbosa
Shawnee High School: Savannah Greenwood
Jim Thorpe Academy: Charles Morgan
Shawnee Public Schools extends its gratitude to all educators, staff, and community partners for their unwavering dedication to student success. The Excellence in Education Gala stands as a testament to the strength and passion of the Shawnee education community.
For more information about Shawnee Public Schools and its commitment to excellence, please contact the district office.