Recognizing excellence in Kyrene is a long-standing tradition that has celebrated educators for nearly a decade. Since the inception of the Kyrene Values Awards, over 800 employees have been honored. Please join us in congratulating our 2025-26 first quarter awardees!

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Raquel Ellis - Collaboration
PK-3 Literacy Facilitator, District Office
Raquel consistently demonstrates collaborative leadership by working across schools and departments to ensure all students benefit from high-quality early literacy instruction.  Her commitment to inclusive planning and cross-departmental communication ensures that no student or teacher is left behind, truly embodying the spirit of collaboration that drives Kyrene's mission forward.

 

Ann Henson - Connection
Instructional Assistant (Reading), Kyrene del Milenio
There isn’t one thing Ms. Annie can’t or won’t do to help others, but my favorite thing about her is simple: she’s welcoming. She welcomed me, she welcomes her students, she makes a point to say ‘hi’ to every person she sees in the hallways, and her smile shines from a mile away. 

 

Jessica Kelly - Connection
Resource Teacher, Kyrene Aprende Middle School
Jessica’s dedication extends far beyond her job description. She fosters a positive and supportive culture, modeling excellence, compassion, and professionalism for everyone around her. Her impact is felt by students, staff, and parents alike, and I truly do not know what we would do without her.

 

Kim Martin - Compassion
P.E. Teacher, Kyrene de los Cerritos Leadership Academy
Since the Sierra relocation, Kim has made my time teaching in an unfamiliar building and alternate P.E. space as enjoyable as possible for myself and my students. She has welcomed me into her space, altered her own schedule and helps prepare materials for class. I feel so fortunate to have such a compassionate P.E. teammate!

 

Courtney Nelson - Collaboration & Courage
Teacher (Grades 3-5), Kyrene de las Manitas Innovation Academy
Courtney consistently steps up to support her team by offering guidance, encouragement, and solutions with positivity and grace. She models courage through her openness to new ideas and her relentless focus on continuous improvement, even in challenging times. Her commitment to collaboration and her courageous leadership make her an invaluable member of our community.

 

Allie O'Rourke - Courage
Resource Teacher, Kyrene de la Estrella
Allie approaches every challenge with compassion and determination—writing thoughtful IEPs, setting meaningful goals, and advocating fiercely for her students’ needs. She is a trusted leader on her team and a role model for others in how to balance professionalism with heart. Her resilience, integrity, and devotion to doing what is right make her an extraordinary example of courage in action.
 

Emily Pieper - Connection
Principal, Kyrene de la Colina
Emily listens with her whole heart and tries her best to come up with a solution to a problem that works for everyone. She walks through the halls of Colina and makes each and every student and staff member feel valued through her smile and praise. Emily leads by example and holds everyone to a very high standard.

 

Quincy Rapacki - Connection
Program Coordinator, Kyrene Community Education and Kyrene de la Mariposa
Quincy is a true leader who exemplifies the Key Value of Connection through her ability to build and maintain trusting relationships with students, families, staff, and school communities. She is deeply passionate about providing a safe, welcoming, and engaging after school space where all children feel seen, heard, and valued.

 

Allison Rosner - Connection & Collaboration
Media Center Assistant, Kyrene de los Lagos Dual Language Academy
Allison ignites a vivid and engaging approach when reading stories, and they always connect to themes that promote kindness, problem solving and becoming an amazing leader. She has also taken it upon herself to change thematic bulletin boards monthly, and is a helping hand to anyone needing support.
 

Jason Smith - Connection & Collaboration
Instructional Assistant, Kyrene de las Manitas Innovation Academy
As an I.A. with our 4th & 5th graders, Jason understands not only the academic demands they are under, but also the social demands as they navigate their peer relationships. No matter how difficult a situation is, he stays the course to make sure all students know that he is there for them and will fight to ensure their success.
 

Stephanie Sousae - Collaboration
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant, Kyrene de la Colina and Kyrene del Cielo
Due to her support, careful planning, reflective teaching and collaboration, a previously struggling student is absolutely thriving! Going between 2 communities with close to 200 kids in her care is beyond challenging, but she makes it look easy while remembering and caring for every teacher, parent and specialist along the way. Cielo's speech program would be lost without her!

 

Tiana Suzuki - Connection
Secretary, Kyrene de la Estrella
Tiana is the heartbeat of our front office and the welcoming face of our school. She understands that connection is built not just through words, but through actions that show reliability and care. Her kindness, dependability, and positive attitude have created a front office that feels like the heart of our community—one where everyone belongs.