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 4th quarter awardees!

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Nicole Anaradian - Collaboration
Resource Teacher, Kyrene de los Niños
Nicole truly makes a difference by embracing a spirit of unity, collaboration, and excellence in all that she does. She believes that student success is built on strong partnerships, and she works tirelessly to bring together teachers, instructional assistants, parents, and support staff to ensure every child receives the best possible education.

 

Alexis Carlow - Collaboration
Education Technology Facilitator, Kyrene Instructional Technology
What makes Alexis truly remarkable is her approachability, kindness, and patience. She creates a judgment-free environment where no question is ever considered "dumb." Whether planning lessons with BEE BOTS, Sphero Indi, Ozobots, or Dash robots, Alexis is always ready to collaborate and problem-solve alongside me.

 

Jessica De Grauw - Connection
Academic Coach, Kyrene de las Lomas
Whether she is coaching a teacher through a difficult day or sitting on the floor to de-escalate a student, her focus remains the same: the well-being of her school community. Her leadership has shifted our school culture toward one of collaboration, empathy, and high expectations for all learners. She is not just an educator; she is a visionary leader who embodies the mission of the Kyrene Values.

 

Regina Fralia - Compassion
Instructional Assistant, CCB, Kyrene de la Esperanza
Throughout her time at Kyrene de la Esperanza, Mrs. Fralia has shown compassion by creating welcoming classrooms where every student feels seen, valued, and part of the community. She works closely with both special education and general education teachers to make lessons accessible and engaging for all, ensuring students can participate fully alongside their peers.

 

Vicky Gutierrez - Collaboration
Instructional Assistant, Kyrene del Norte Dual Language Academy
Vicky's calm demeanor and kindness make her excellent at working with everyone at Norte. Her smile brightens our hallways. In the case of Ms. Vicky, IA doesn't just stand for "instructional assistant," but also represents that she is "incredibly amazing!"

 

Elizabeth Hammer - Collaboration
ELD Teacher, Kyrene de la Paloma Arts Integration Academy
Elizabeth consistently demonstrates collaboration to support her team by offering encouragement, guidance, and constant communication. With new team members at 5 schools and a new program, she has been a strong leader throughout the learning process for everyone to feel comfortable in their position and to provide what's best for our students. All with positivity and  a smile on her face!

 

Eva Harlow - Compassion
Program Manager, Kyrene Community Education
Eva has consistently demonstrated the Kyrene Key Value of Compassion through her leadership and support as a manager. She has been a steady presence during some of my most challenging moments, both professionally and personally, always approaching situations with empathy and understanding.

 

Steph Kosakowski - Collaboration
PE Teacher, Kyrene de las Manitas Innovation Academy
As a PE teacher he set high expectations for all scholars while encouraging and supporting them to achieve those expectations. He took time to see and hear each student’s story, treating them with dignity and respect. Coach Steph quickly became a favorite teacher on campus. You can find him playing basketball with students during his break and talking with students in the lunchroom.

 

Pam Olney - Courage
Art Teacher, Kyrene del Milenio
Pam’s career is a testament to her resilience, initiative, and unwavering dedication to our community. She does not simply uphold the Kyrene Values—she lives them. When invited to transition to new roles, she embraces the change with enthusiasm, eager to expand her expertise and challenge herself in new ways. Rather than remaining within the comfort of familiarity, she consistently chooses growth.

 

Kim Skousen - Connection
Media Technician, Kyrene de los Cerritos 
With the uncharted territory of not having a librarian anymore, Kim has taken on the challenge of the media tech’s new responsibilities. She constantly goes above and beyond, and it does not go unnoticed. She is truly a superstar and has made the transition feel seamless.

 

Nick Steele - Courage
Program Coordinator II, Kyrene Community Education
Mr. Nick leads with courage in all that he does. He has a magnetic personality, an open mind, and a willingness to try new things, paired with the courage to take thoughtful risks in order to grow and improve. His genuine enthusiasm and love for children are evident daily, and he empowers his students to be courageous themselves—to dream big, take risks, and believe that great things are possible.

 

Felicia Williams - Connection, Compassion, Collaboration, Courage
Principal, Kyrene de los Lagos Dual Language Academy
Felicia Williams is an exemplary principal who demonstrates excellent leadership skills. She has fostered a thriving community that connects students, staff, and families. Mrs. Williams collaborates closely with our PTO, site committees, support-staff and teachers to create a learning environment where all students feel safe and seen. She makes daily connections and greets children as they come through the doors, and when she sees them in the hallways. She is always available for staff when support is needed. She has nurtured a climate where the staff feels connected and valued.