December 2022, February & March 2023
Pictures of CARE Award winners Jennifer Turner, Evan Berry, and Selene Gonzalez are shown.

Canby School District and partner Canby Kiwanis over the last few months have continued to honor school staff members with the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award.

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities to recognize teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Typically, the committee honors a single district staff member with the award each month.

In December, the CARE award went to the soon-retiring Baker Prairie Middle School Principal Jennifer Turner. Then in January it went to Canby High School Technical Assistant Evan Berry followed in February by Carus Bilingual Instructional Assistant Selene Gonzalez.

Turner is set to retire in June of this year after 40 years in education, 25 of them in the Canby School District. Several staff members nominated Turner, with one pointing out that time was running out to honor her.

One of her nominations noted that she is first to show up at school in the morning and the last to leave. It also said that she always offers a caring ear and a needed hug. Other staff members who wrote nominations said how thankful they were for her.

“Jennifer is the most generous and genuine boss anyone could ever ask for,” Ruby Medrano said. “She cares so much for everyone who surrounds her. She wouldn’t ever hesitate to step in and help or sacrifice her own time and self-care to help you.”

With the award rotating schools for the first time this academic year, next up was Canby High School, with the award going to Berry, who went above and beyond to serve students this fall when he stepped up to get certified as a teacher to fill a gap, according to his nomination.

Berry developed curriculum, systems, and structures for the class.

Now back in his regular role, Berry continues to share his depth of knowledge and build trust with students.

Then just this month, the CARE Award went to Gonzalez, who was shocked when district staff arrived at the Carus front office to surprise her.

Gonzalez reportedly goes above and beyond to make all families feel welcome at Carus and is always asking what more she can do to help.

Her nominations said, “We could not do the work that we do without Selene!” and, “She makes Carus better!”

As CARE Award winners, Turner, Berry, and Gonzalez were invited to the corresponding monthly school board meetings and honored there. They received a plaque and gift basket from local businesses in recognition of their work.

The award will continue to rotate with Eccles up in March.

The major sponsors include Canby Kiwanis and Columbia Bank; and other local sponsors include Wayward Sandwiches, Swan Island Dahlias, Wild Hare Saloon, Book Nook, Rice Time Canby, Gwynn’s Coffeehouse, Backstop Bar & Grill, DirectLink, Puddin’ River Chocolates, Odd Moe’s Pizza, Cutsforth’s Market and Matt Olsen Insurance.

November 2022
Magdalena Rodriguez, Berenice Santiago, and Katarina Veliz pose with their awards and Trost Principal Angie Navarro.

Canby School District leaders joined Trost Elementary School staff and students at recess to surprise the first-grade teaching team with the November Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award.

The members of the team are Katarina Veliz, Berenice Santiago, and Magdalena Rodriguez.

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities like this to recognize teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Typically, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a single district staff member with the award each month. But in a rare occurrence, November’s award went to this group of three classroom teachers. The nomination for the trio highlighted the group’s ability to collaborate.

“I believe that this first-grade team deserves recognition for their team’s collaboration, flexibility, dedication and commitment to improve their instruction in order to best serve their students,” the nomination said. “Their collaboration ranges from sharing their ideas during weekly Collaborative Team meetings to establishing a plan to evenly distribute the planning workload.”

The three face unique challenges as teachers at Canby’s dual language immersion magnet school, where instruction takes place in both English and Spanish. As opposed to neighborhood elementary schools, families choose to send their children to Trost starting in kindergarten and are admitted on a lottery basis.

Students continue to receive instruction in both languages throughout middle and high school, and many of them go on to earn the Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation. To find out more about the dual language immersion program, visitthe district’s program web page.

As this month’s winners of the CARE Award, Veliz, Santiago, and Rodriguez were invited to the monthly school board meeting and honored there. They received a plaque and gift basket from local businesses in recognition of their work.

The major sponsors include Canby Kiwanis and Columbia Bank; and other local sponsors include Wayward Sandwiches, Swan Island Dahlias, Wild Hare Saloon, Book Nook, Rice Time Canby, Gwynn’s Coffeehouse, Backstop Bar & Grill, DirectLink, Puddin’ River Chocolates, Odd Moe’s Pizza, Cutsforth’s Market and Matt Olsen Insurance.

Going forward, the CARE Award will rotate schools, with Baker Prairie Middle School up in December.

April, May & June 2022
Top left- Jacquie Fitch, Top right - Jordan Paulus, bottom - Todd Roberts

Canby School District has been busy handing out Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Awards recently, with the April award going to Eccles third-grade teacher Jacquie Fitch, May’s to Baker Prairie band teacher Jordan Paulus, and June’s to retiring Canby High CTE teacher Todd Roberts.

The CARE committee surprised Fitch in the Eccles cafeteria during third-grade lunch. Students cheered, while a few held up a large banner that read, “Congrats Mrs. Fitch!”

Fitch, who is a National Board certified teacher, is known for her dedication to her students even after they leave her classroom.

“Jacquie has stated numerous times that once a child is in her class, they are her students forever,” said the nomination from a community member.

Fitch was also nominated for teaching to the whole student – acknowledging both their academic and emotional needs.

The following month, the CARE committee visited Baker Prairie’s band classroom to honor Paulus, who was nominated for his supportive and positive approach to teaching and for growing the band program.

Like other teachers during the pandemic, Paulus taught his students over Zoom. Baker Prairie Principal Jennifer Turner noted that even so, band students have grown as musicians.

“They sound great,” she said of the band, as she turned to Paulus and told him, “You are so deserving of this.”

The band class then proceeded to play an impromptu song for the CARE committee.

Before May’s end, in an effort to celebrate one last recipient ahead of summer break, the CARE committee ventured to Canby High School, where they surprised Roberts with the June award.

Roberts was honored for leading the CTE department, coordinating grants and budgets, helping put together the makerspace, and advocating for kids.

As he prepares to retire after the school year, he said the staff and students have made his journey in education a “fun ride.”

Of the CARE Award, Superintendent Dr. Downs said to Roberts, “It’s a time to stop and say thank you and to recognize your hard work. We are incredibly proud, and thank you for everything you do for us.”

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Typically, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with the award each month.

If you know someone like these three teachers who you believe is deserving of the CARE Award, a nomination form can be found onthe district’s website here.

Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Kiwanis and Columbia Bank, along with Backstop Bar & Grill, Wayward Sandwiches, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates, Matt Olsen State Farm Insurance, RiceTime Canby, The Book Nook, Odd Moe's Pizza, The Wild Hare Saloon, and DirectLink.

March 2022
Carus Health Assistant Melinda Ross and Carus Principal Sam Thompson pose for a picture.

This month, third-grade students cheered in the Carus cafeteria as Health Assistant Melinda Ross received the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award.

“When you’re hurt, when you’re emotionally upset, when you’re having a hard day, we know we can count on Ms. Melinda,” Principal Sam Thompson said during the surprise. “She brightens all of your days, she brightens our day, and that’s why she got nominated for this.

“And I think it’s a good example for all of us as we think about how we want to treat people, how we want to be in school, how we want to live our lives; she is a great example of being caring and kind and taking care of other people.”

Melinda joined Carus Elementary School in the spring of 2021 and jumped right in, quickly becoming an “indispensable” employee. She was hired in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Carus staff members who nominated her said the scope of her work and daily impact extends far beyond that.

She has become a beloved and trusted adult whom students turn to for needs outside their physical health, like when she provided support for kindergartners and first-graders struggling with the transition to school or when she sat with a sixth-grade student as they were experiencing a panic attack.

After the initial surprise at Carus, Melinda was honored later at the monthly school board meeting, where she received a plaque and a gift basket in recognition of her work from local businesses and organizations like chief sponsors Kiwanis and Columbia Bank.

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Typically, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with the award each month.

Melinda was selected after her nominators lauded her as a stand-out staff member for her “positivity, generous spirit, and work ethic.”

If you know someone like Melinda who you believe is deserving of the CARE Award, a nomination form can be found on the district’s website here.

Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Kiwanis and Columbia Bank, along with Backstop Bar & Grill, Wayward Sandwiches, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates, Matt Olsen State Farm Insurance, RiceTime Canby, The Book Nook, Odd Moe's Pizza, The Wild Hare Saloon, and DirectLink.

February 2022
photo of February CARE Award winner with other staff and two students

Canby School District leaders joined Ninety-One School staff and students to surprise Claudia Perez with this month’s Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award.

Perez is a bilingual instructional assistant at Ninety-One School who works with Spanish-speaking students and families. Fellow staff member Heidi Wilson nominated Perez for the honor.

“Claudia is the most humble, hard working, dedicated staff member I know,” Wilson said. “She continuously works with our Spanish speaking families even after hours to make sure that their students’ needs are being met.”

Wilson also noted in the nomination that Perez listens to school parents with a “compassionate heart.”

“When a family has a need, she is the first to do something about it,” Wilson said, “whether it’s buying shoes for a child out of her own pocket or providing a jacket for a child who may not have one.”

Perez is also known for brightening the day for her peers.

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities like this to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Typically, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with the award each month.

As this month’s winner, Perez will receive a plaque and gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Backstop Bar & Grill, Wayward Sandwiches, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates, Matt Olsen State Farm Insurance, RiceTime Canby, The Book Nook, Odd Moe's Pizza, The Wild Hare Saloon, and DirectLink.

To nominate someone who you believe is deserving of the CARE Award, a nomination form can be found on the district’s website here.

May 2021
Photo of JD Bellum

In May, Canby School District opted to give out two Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Awards. The first went to Carus Elementary Principal Sam Thompson, and the second went to Canby High School leadership teacher JD Bellum.

Following Thompson's surprise announcement early in May, Superintendent Trip Goodall and high school administrators popped into Bellum's classroom to gift him also with the award. Canby High School Principal Greg Dinse hands leadership teacher JD Bellum the CARE Award. Superintendent Trip Goodall is pictured at right. Both recipients were honored at the May 20 school board meeting.

JD Bellum was nominated by high school staff for the work he's been doing and adjustments he's made to facilitate distance learning. "Being the leadership teacher during a time like this - normally you're doing big assemblies and you're trying to create an atmosphere, a culture, that is really positive," Goodall said. "And it takes a lot to get relationships going when you're looking at kids primarily through a Zoom meeting modality. JD has just done a phenomenal job putting together videos and connecting kids and staff."

Formerly an attorney, Bellum joined the field of education last school year. He pointed out that being new to the field may have given him an edge during an admittedly challenging year. "Everything had to be rethought and in a way, I've almost got a leg up because I came from being a lawyer," Bellum said*. "So, I was figuring out how to be a teacher last year, and then switching to being an online virtual teacher. It was kind of like, alright, I'll just keep learning something else new."

April 2021
Photo of Sam Thompson

In a rare occurrence, this month's Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award went to a school district principal.

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Typically, every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with the award.

This month, Carus Elementary School staff managed to arrange a surprise announcement from Trip Goodall during a virtual school assembly, revealing Principal Sam Thompson as the first May recipient. They would later surprise Canby High School leadership teacher JD Bellum with a second award.

"In my seven years, this award has never gone to a principal," Goodall said. "It's the first time that a principal has been given the award, and it really says so much about how Mr. Thompson leads from the heart. He believes in all of his kids, he believes in all of his teachers, he believes in all of his families. I'm very proud of you Sam."

It turns out, Thompson's teachers had nominated him.

"Thank you. That's a surprise," Thompson said. "I don't really know what to say. I'm surrounded by great people — great teachers, great staff, great kids, great leaders. What an honor. Thank you. I'm humbled."

As one of the May recipients of Kiwanis's and the district's CARE Award, Thompson received a plaque, thanks to area businesses.

Those local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates and Glenmore Farms.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

MARCH 2021
Photo of Bret Adkins

Canby Kiwanis established the CARE Award to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree, or sometimes honorees, are then determined by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community. Typically, every month, Canby Kiwanis and the Canby School District honor a district staff member with the award. However, when schools were abruptly shut down last spring, it was suspended.

It's finally back, and with the district's heavy leaning on technology over the last year to provide distance learning to its students, building administrators decided together to nominate Bret Adkins.

"We are united in our belief that Bret Adkins is more than deserving of this month's CARE Award," the administrators said in their nomination. "Never before have any of us experienced an event that required our organization to be so continentally reactive and flexible. Bret has been incredibly nimble, supportive and resourceful in working through every adjustment that has been asked of him. He has worked tirelessly to incorporate resources outside of Canby School District and been extremely creative to solve an incredible number of problems."

Superintendent Trip Goodall presented the award to Adkins at the March 18 school board meeting.

"I echo every sentiment," Goodall said after reading the nomination aloud. "He really does extraordinary work. He's actually in the room with us right now, working...So, we'll all give you a round of applause," he said to Adkins.

Goodall also gave Trost Principal Angie Navarro a chance to share. She said the administrators have long been wanting to nominate Adkins for the award and noted that they have called him frequently with problems to solve. "And every single time (he'd say), 'OK, I'm on it,'" Navarro said. "And he was. And he continues to be."

After all the praise, Adkins took the opportunity to share the award with his team, which includes Justin Parcher, Kim Smith, Aaron Smith, Joshua Rapley, Mario Guadarrama Rivera, Chad Kay, Natalie Becher, Melanie Kratzer, Myron Carothers, Matthew Paul, Barb Munsterman, Andy Covington, Elizabeth Enderle and Antonio Soto.

As the March recipient of Kiwanis's and the district's CARE Award, Adkins received a plaque thanks to area businesses.

Those local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates and Glenmore Farms.

By Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

January 2020
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for January 2020

School had started three hours late that Friday, thanks to light snowfall and freezing temperatures, when Canby Superintendent Trip Goodall paid a visit to Baker Prairie Middle School. School Principal Jennifer Turner and several teachers stood by as students joked, at Goodall's expense, about Canby's history of closing school in the winter when it was only raining outside. Goodall laughed at himself and continued the lighthearted exchange with students as he began to describe why he was there: to honor a staff member who goes above and beyond ordinary duties.

When he uttered the name "Anne Huggins" as January's recipient of the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award, her jaw dropped in genuine shock that Goodall was there for her. Then the shock melted into happy tears.

Huggins has long served as an English language arts teacher and also coaches cross country along with her brother. In his comments, Goodall credited Huggins with revitalizing the middle school cross country program.

Every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member like Huggins with this CARE Award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

In this case, a student athlete was behind the nomination. It arose from a school ELA assignment, which involved interviewing someone who builds community. The student chose Huggins and later submitted the essay as a nomination for the award.

"I know we are fortunate to have two wonderful, devoted coaches steering us to places far and wide, through parks and on trails, across roads and highways, and over and under bridges," the student said in the nomination. "And even though student athletes grow up, some are still hitting the trail, exploring the wilderness, pumping sweaty arms and staying loyal to the sport of running without the supervision of a coach."

Following the surprise during the week, Huggins was also honored at the monthly school board meeting on Thursday, Jan. 23.

There, Goodall read portions of the nomination, which included comments Huggins had made in the interview with the student.

"The reason that I like to coach cross country is because I get to see kids in a different light, and they get to see me in a different light; and I just like to see them grow and become better people," Huggins had said in the student interview.

As January's recipient, Huggins received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses.

Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates and Glenmore Farms.

Following the presentation, the teacher side of Huggins came out as she praised the student for their outstanding, college-level essay. She even passed out copies to the entire school board, having received permission from the student to do so.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

December 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for December 2019

As has become his habit, Canby Schools Superintendent Trip Goodall again surprised the month's Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award winner during school hours.

This time, his visit took him to Baker Prairie Middle School, where Sheila Brownell worked as an instructional assistant. "She works tirelessly for the betterment of the special education middle school students at BPMS," one of the nominations reads.

Goodall and Baker Prairie Principal Jennifer Turner barged into a middle school classroom full of kids, greeted them and Goodall explained the reason for the award.

Every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member like Brownell with this CARE award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

In this case, Brownell was nominated by multiple peers. "What's really cool about this is you weren't nominated by just one person; you were nominated, I think, by four people," Goodall said during the surprise. "We've never had that happen ever since I've been here in five years, which is remarkable to think that all of your colleagues think so highly of you and your work. So, on behalf of the district and Kiwanis, thank you so much for the work that you do," he said.

Following the surprise during the week, Brownell was also honored at the monthly school board meeting on Thursday, Dec. 19.

Brownell's award came just in time, as she was set to retire at the end of that week, Dec. 20, according to the school district.

At the meeting, as the December recipient of Kiwanis's and the district's CARE Award, Brownell received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses.

Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates and Glenmore Farms.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

November 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for November 2019

This month, in front of Canby School District principals and leaders, Superintendent Trip Goodall surprised Jennifer Dennis with the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award.

Dennis works at the district office as a data specialist, providing necessary data analysis to report to the state and more. In particular, she's being honored for her commitment to equity.

"You were nominated because people really recognize the work you do for the entire school district—your eye on the equity data, the way in which we're starting to make decisions that focus on looking at data as a way to inform our decision-making," Goodall said during the surprise. "That certainly caught the eye of one of our staff members and all of us."

Every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member like Dennis with this CARE award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Marilyn Wood, of Kiwanis, was present for the surprise, and she took the opportunity to say a few words of thanks.

"I've just been thinking about how much you do and how important the work you do is," Wood said. "I was thinking back to the old days when we first started getting the data we had and how it changed our practices, and it continues to. You bring up so many questions that are so important. So I do thank you so much for what you're doing."

**

After being surprised with the honor, Dennis was later honored at the November school board meeting.

There, Ivonne Dibblee, the district's director of teaching and learning, offered her take on why Dennis is so deserving of the award.

"I was so happy to hear that Jen had been nominated for this award, and when she got it, we were all thrilled in the central office because she really does so much more than just look at numbers and crunch numbers," Dibblee said. "She creates stories about those numbers. She allows us to see what kids are behind those numbers."

As this month's recipient of Kiwanis's and the district's CARE Award, Dennis received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates and Glenmore Farms.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

October 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for October 2019

There is perhaps no better name than "CARE Award" for the honor given to this month's recipient, Trost Elementary first-grade teacher Brianna Epstein Snodgrass.

It was out of deep care for one of her students that she went to great lengths to attempt to ensure he was safe from abuse and neglect at home. Once the student was out of her grasp, even then, she kept fighting; she championed a state house bill requiring animal control employees to be included among mandatory reporters of abuse and neglect.

That bill passed, and now, following a nomination from a former teacher, the district and Kiwanis are honoring her for her efforts.

Snodgrass's efforts began with a single student, who she refers to as "J." According to her testimony to legislators, he had come to her after a rough kindergarten year behaviorally and academically. The two quickly made a connection.

But Snodgrass was concerned about J, who, among his other struggles, perpetually smelled of urine. Snodgrass and the school counselor made repeated reports to the Department of Human Services on J's behalf.

It all came to a head around the time that the district psychologist, school counselor and Snodgrass had scheduled an unannounced visit to J's low-income apartment for a Monday. But before that could happen, they learned that J's mother had lost her job, the family was being evicted from their apartment, and over the weekend they were moving to Texas where they could stay with family.

Following their departure, Snodgrass and the school counselor went to the family's apartment that Monday to make sure they'd really left. It was this visit that would ultimately lead to Snodgrass's legislative efforts.

"The counselor and I could smell the stench of urine coming from their apartment halfway up the stairwell," Snodgrass said in her testimony. "Sure enough, they weren't there and although we couldn't get into the apartment, we talked to the apartment manager."

"What we learned haunts me to this day," Snodgrass continued.

"She said that the family, specifically the stepdad, was being investigated for animal abuse by animal control. According to her, they housed exotic animals…She declared that her maintenance workers had left the apartment with animal feces on them after performing work. Needless to say, it now became much clearer why J smelled like urine, but there was nothing we could do about it, at least nothing that felt like it mattered."

Snodgrass later learned the family had become homeless in Texas. This knowledge made her feel like she had failed J, or that the system had failed J.

"I know that we did all that we could under the restraints of the systems in place, but I have always wondered what would have happened if Animal Control Officers were mandatory reporters and reported to DHS about the horrendous conditions inside that apartment," Snodgrass said in the testimony. "Would the story have played out differently for J? Would he be in a better living situation now, instead of homeless, if animal control officers had made that report? I will always wonder what could have been for J."

While Snodgrass was hindered from helping J, she has now helped potentially hundreds or thousands of other kids. She took the necessary steps to propose legislation that would add animal control officers as mandatory reporters of abuse and neglect. The idea became House Bill 2227, and it was passed and signed into law by the president and governor this year, making Oregon only the seventh state to have such a law. It will take effect in January 2020. "It is our duty as citizens to protect those who cannot protect themselves: our children," Snodgrass said to end her testimony.

At the school board meeting to honor Snodgrass, Board Chair Angi Dilkes acknowledged how difficult it is to pass legislation like this and she applauded Snodgrass's diligence.

As this month's recipient of Kiwanis's and the district's CARE Award, Snodgrass received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates and Glenmore Farms.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

September 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for September 2019

It was in the halls of Canby High School last month where Canby School District Superintendent Trip Goodall and high school administrators surprised Anne Bangs with the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award.

Bangs, an instructional assistant who tutors students in science, was caught off guard, with mints in her mouth, but managed to utter that she loves her job.

Later that week, at the district board meeting, Bangs was honored again publicly. Goodall read a portion of the nomination, revealing that Bangs isn't your ordinary tutor.

"Anne has created an environment that encourages students to be successful in science. She has created curriculum books that have all of our lectures as well as quizzes and tests," the nomination read. "She has set up a system that teachers can drop off materials, and it is ready for the students when they arrive."

"She has to learn all of the science curriculum — from biology to physicals to chemistry and everything in between," the letter continued. "She helps the students in orthology, astronomy, field-to-table, world science. She loves what she does and it really shows."

High school Principal Greg Dinse took the chance to add a few words to honor Bangs.

"Anne, one of the things that I think is really a hallmark is how you put kids first," Dinse said. "And you're always there regardless of the kid, regardless of their need, and I know you can work outside of science sometimes. But you work there to help kids get through their classes, meet graduation requirements and help them be the most successful students they can be. And I really appreciate all the work you do."

Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District respond monthly to nominations like this one and give the CARE Award to teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

As this month's winner, at the meeting Bangs received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, Hot Rod Dreamworks, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Swan Island Dahlias, Puddin' River Chocolates, and Glenmore Farms.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

May 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for May 2019

To let kindergarten/1st grade teacher Alyson Ensrud know she was being honored with this month's Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award, Superintendent Trip Goodall ventured all the way out to the Ninety-One School garden.

There, he announced Ensrud as the winner in front of a crowd of Ensrud's students.

"We have such a great teacher right here with Mrs. Ensrud, and I wanted to tell you guys that she is going to get the CARE Award for this month," Goodall said. "It's for this kind of work that she does, where she takes the time to come out here and help you guys learn about things like gardening, and pruning and rocks and sunflowers."

When she learned she had won, and that it may have had to do with her work in the garden, Ensrud was quick to share the credit.

"It's definitely a team effort," Ensrud said. "We have excellent volunteers. We have people that are super passionate about this program and about keeping kids in nature and gardening. So thank you for the honor, but thanks to everybody who's behind it also."

She would soon find out her recognition was about so much more than her garden work.

Every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member like Ensrud with this CARE award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Ensrud was nominated by a fellow Ninety-One staff member, Counselor Colby Scheer. In his nomination, he did point out Ensrud's dedication to the school garden and to teaching her students about agriculture. He also described how well she connects with students and how much students adore her.

But he also shared about how Ensrud is always the first one to step up and help students who may have needs like food, clothing and housing.

"She recently made contacts on her own time with outside businesses so that one of our homeless students and their family might be able to cook food in their temporary shelter," Scheer said in the nomination letter. "She also organized the gathering and delivery of much-needed grocery items to this family over a long weekend."

Ninety-One Principal Skyler Rodolph too shared about Ensrud's exceptional kindness when she was honored later at the May school board meeting.

"Without going into specifics, she's really taken a family who needed some support in our community and helped rally some support with teachers and staff to be able to take care of this family and walk beside them through a difficult time," Rodolph said. "And that's one of the things that stands out for me is her heart for others and how giving she is to everybody. So, it is a well-deserved award, and I couldn't congratulate you enough."

Ensrud received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Team Spirit and Puddin' River Chocolates.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

April 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for April 2019

When high school administration and the superintendent showed up to Canby High School English Teacher Joel Ekdahl's classroom to tell him he had won the monthly Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award, he was in the middle of a discussion with his students about the Day of Silence—a day to draw attention to the marginalization of LGBTQ people at school.

"In American Lit B especially, we cover several different groups of people who have been marginalized…There's actually a student who brought to my attention that we don't get the opportunity to talk about this community very much in the classroom," Ekdahl said. "So I thought today might be a good day to kind of ask some open-ended questions about why people might be silent and why there needs to be such a day. So, it's kind of cool that you came in on this day."

His leading this discussion was in step with the very reason he was nominated for the CARE Award.

"Mr. Ekdahl is a very supportive, open-minded, understanding teacher and person in general," the nomination letter said. "Mr. Ekdahl also creates an atmosphere where students feel safe to express their opinions and feelings on any subject that may be up for discussion."

Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District respond monthly to nominations like this one and give the CARE Award to teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

As April's winner, Ekdahl was later honored at the April school board meeting, where Superintendent Trip Goodall read aloud portions of the nomination letter.

The letter went on to say, "I believe he is providing an excellent student teaching experience as well as helping his students with self-esteem issues. He has done very good work encouraging students to do their very best and that it is okay to be 'who you exactly are.' He is a great asset to Canby School District and deserves to be acknowledged for all his hard work."

"And I couldn't agree more, so congratulations Joel," Goodall said.

Acknowledged he was as CHS Principal Greg Dinse grabbed the mic to brag on Ekdahl to the community. Dinse shared that he has known Ekdahl since Ekdahl was a student at Tualatin High School when Dinse was the vice principal.

"I think what's so special about Joel is that he came into teaching with enthusiasm and a lot of energy, and he brings that to all his classes because he cares deeply about his students," Dinse said. "And what I think is so really telling about him is that you extend yourself well beyond just your teaching assignment, and your work with the SAFE community has really helped embrace a lot of our students to feel like they're welcome and part of our greater Canby High School community and really a key part of that community."

Ekdahl received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Team Spirit and Puddin' River Chocolates.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

March 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for March 2019

After a heartfelt nomination from a parent, Baker Prairie P.E. teacher Brooke Cates was honored with the March Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award.

Every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with this CARE award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Cates was honored at the March school board meeting, where Superintendent Trip Goodall read aloud portions of the nomination letter.

"Mrs. Cates has shown my child compassion, understanding, guidance and love during a time when she has needed it most," the nomination said. "Brooke is one teacher she looks forward to seeing. She feels safe and supported by her. My child lights up when speaking about her, and Brooke has been a constant light during one of the darkest and most difficult times for her during this year."

The nomination continued, "Brooke is saving lives with her connection to her students. She doesn't even know it. Her impact on my child and our family is one we will forever be grateful for."

If, after 27 years of teaching, Cates in fact does not realize the deep impact she has on her students, Principal Jennifer Turner spoke up to further make it known.

"Every day you impact our students, and you advocate for P.E. and for physical health and mental health, and I appreciate that in you," Turner said. "Don't stop…I love watching you every day make a difference, so thank you."

As Cates received the accolades along with a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses, she took the opportunity to express how much both her work and the award mean to her.

" I always felt I had the dream job. I look forward to getting up every day and going to work…It's really the kids. They make my day," Cates said. "This just means the world to me. That letter is just amazing coming from a student's mom. Thank you very, very much. This means the world."

Cates received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Team Spirit and Puddin' River Chocolates.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

February 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for February 2019

It was Eccles third-grade teacher Wendy Scharich who came away with the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award in February.

Every month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with this award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Scharich was honored at the February school board meeting, where Superintendent Trip Goodall and Eccles Principal Andy McKean made it clear her teaching style is both unique and beloved. Earlier in the week, Goodall had surprised Sharich with the award in the presence of her students.

"So when we walked in and the kids were kind of wondering what was going on," Goodall said, "and then when we made the announcement…number one, you got the big rousing applause, which is wonderful; but the expressions on the faces of every kid, like really just so happy for you, is really telling about how they care for you."

"They were doing all these kinds of facial expressions that made me think that as unique as you are, I think you really foster a sense of uniqueness in your students," Goodall continued. "I think you really encourage them to be who they are, and that was really incredible for me to see."

McKean detailed some of this "uniqueness." "Both of my daughters had her, and they recall some of the different features of your classroom," McKean went on. "There's a skeleton that hangs in Mrs. Scharich's classroom, and I believe it's referred to as a former student."

Scharich is not only known for her work in the classroom, but also outside of it. She heads up a scrapbooking club with Eccles students, has done grant-writing for a school courtyard and even gives McKean tips on how he can improve, McKean quipped.

Scharich received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Team Spirit and Puddin' River Chocolates.

**

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

January 2019
Photo of the CARE Award recipient for January 2019

January's Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award went to Knight Elementary's kitchen cook Ginger Miller.

She was honored at the January school board meeting, where Knight Principal Christine Taylor described surprising Miller with the award earlier in the week. Taylor knew it would be a feat to get Miller out of the kitchen for the surprise, but managed as students waited in the cafeteria. "We get part way out, and she turns to me and she says, 'Should I get lipstick on?' And those of you who know Ginger, that is a total Ginger comment," Taylor said.

Each month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with this CARE Award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Miller was nominated by Canby Fire Battalion Chief Todd Gary. Both Gary and Fire Chief Jim Davis attended the board meeting for the award presentation.

"I have had the honor of being asked to help at several special days at Knight Elementary School throughout the years," Gary said in the nomination letter. "Ginger Miller has always made sure that the firemen have washed their hands." Gary went on, "I watch her in the kitchen. She's going a million different directions to make sure everyone is take care of…She puts that same effort and heart into the first lunch as she does the seventh lunch of the day."

Superintendent Trip Goodall expressed how incredible it is for Miller to have received the nomination from the fire department . Taylor agreed saying, "I'm so thrilled. And thank you so much for noticing. She goes above and beyond, and it's just amazing."

Miller received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of her work. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Team Spirit and Puddin' River Chocolates.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

December 2018
Photo of David Purdy

This December, Baker Prairie math teacher and longtime school district staff member David Purdy received a special holiday gift. He was given the CARE Award.

Superintendent Trip Goodall surprised Purdy with the award during a packed eighth-grade math class.

"He had no idea, and then when I spoke to the class, it was spontaneous, incredible applause as soon as they heard what was going on," Goodall said during the formal presentation of the award at the December school board meeting. "And then they did it like three other times during the presentation. And then when I left…I closed the door—I was the last person to leave—and then they started clapping again."

Each month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with this CARE Award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.Purdy was nominated by a former student.

"[The nomination] was really well-written about how you provided [the former student] with an opportunity to learn that really made an impact on him as he went through into the high school," Goodall said. "So, congratulations."

Baker Prairie Middle School Principal Jennifer Turner also offered some words of praise about Purdy.

"What I know about Dave is that he cares deeply, and his students know that," Turner said. *"He looks beyond just teaching eighth-graders. He looks beyond getting them ready for high school and beyond, and takes that job really seriously. He does chess club, he does yearbook, he does many things and a lot of it on his own time. He takes students to chess tournaments." *

"I think you are very deserving of the award," Turner continued. "Your colleagues feel the same way. So, I'm proud that you received it, and thank you for the difference that you make every day in the lives of the students you have and for all of us."

Purdy received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of his efforts. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Puddin' River Chocolates and Team Spirit.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

November 2018
Photo of Lorin Hilger

It has become a tradition for Canby Superintendent Trip Goodall to visit one of Canby's schools to present the monthly CARE Award to a deserving staff member. This month, he journeyed out to Carus Elementary, where students flooded Lorin Hilger's fourth-grade classroom as she received the award.

"Tons of kids from other classes and teachers came in wanting to be a part of recognizing what a terrific teacher Lorin is," Goodall said. "Family was there. I thought that was really great."

Each month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with this CARE Award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.

The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Hilger was nominated by Carus parent Shelly Vissers.

After the surprise in her classroom, Hilger was also honored at the monthly school board meeting.

"When we get a nomination from a parent, to me, that's one of those opportunities to recognize," Goodall said during the award presentation. "There's not just one parent that probably wants to make that nomination, but I'm sure many."

"We are just so proud of the work you're doing and we appreciate it," he added.

Carus Principal Sam Thompson also took the opportunity to praise Hilger. "I was just looking at your walls, and I realized in looking at your walls, it really conveys a lot of why you got this," Thompson said. "What I saw when I looked at your walls is you have such a positive classroom climate and you work so, so hard for each child in your room; and you give them opportunities to do that for each other and to be positive for each other."

"You work so hard to continue to get better at your craft," he continued, "and it really shows."

Hilger received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of his efforts. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Puddin' River Chocolates and Team Spirit.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

October 2018
Photo of Gini Saltmarsh

Eccles Elementary librarian Gini Saltmarsh was still chewing on a carrot at lunchtime when she was asked to quickly come to the cafeteria. There, Eccles students and staff were waiting alongside Superintendent Trip Goodall to present her with October's Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award. The kids cheered wildly, stomped their feet and stood to honor Saltmarsh.

"The kids really responded in such an amazing way," Goodall said. "It's just really indicative of how much they really appreciate your work, so congratulations."

Each month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with this CARE Award. Canby Kiwanis established it to provide opportunities to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The prospective recipients must be nominated, and the honoree is then decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community.

Saltmarsh was nominated by fellow Library Instructional Assistant Cortney Tamimi of Ninety-One School. After the surprise at Eccles, Saltmarsh was also honored at the monthly school board meeting.

"It's wonderful when you get a colleague that nominates somebody for this award, because it says so much about your work," Goodall said during the award presentation.

Eccles Principal Andy McKean was present both at the school surprise and the board meeting. He took the opportunity to boast about Saltmarsh's impact at the school.

"You can find a lot of people who love reading, they love books, and Gini certainly loves books. But what Gini's skill and talent is, is really infecting others with the love of reading," McKean said. "There's so many kids that come into the library, and they don't necessarily consider themselves readers, but nobody escapes the library without a book that they're really excited to read. And that takes a lot of work and a lot of talent to get books into kids' hands, especially when they're resistant or reluctant to do that."

Saltmarsh received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of his efforts. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Puddin' River Chocolates and Team Spirit.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

September 2018
Photo of Cheryl Beyer

Each month, Canby Kiwanis and Canby School District honor a district staff member with the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence Award. September's award goes to Ninety-One School secretary Cheryl Beyer.

On Friday, Sept. 14, Superintendent Trip Goodall surprised her at school with the award and was met with tears of joy from Beyer.

"You guys are my 'why,' " Beyer said to the students gathered in the school office. "You're the reason I do this."

Canby Kiwanis, whose mission is to serve the children of Canby, established the CARE Award to provide a monthly opportunity to recognize individual teachers, counselors, coaches and other school staff who make a difference in the lives of others and in the community. The recipients are decided by a CARE committee made up of members from Kiwanis and the community, who review the nominations and make the selection.

During the surprise, Ninety-One School Principal Skyler Rodolph acknowledged the breadth of Beyer's impact.

"Mrs. Beyer was nominated not just by her colleagues here—her coworkers—but by parents here at school, by her colleagues at other schools—other secretaries—and by the nursing staff in our district," Rodolph said. "So lots of people recognize how awesome she is. So, thank you. You are well-deserving."

Beyer was also honored at the Sept. 20 school board meeting.

"Every time I walk in the building, you always give me a big smile, ask me how things are going," Goodall said, as he presented the award at the school board meeting. "You're terrific at what you do in every way, so again we really appreciate having you here."

Goodall also read a letter from Rebecca Wright, one the people who nominated Beyer for the award.

"Cheryl's ability to connect with people is part of what makes her perfect in her role at Ninety-One," the letter said. "She is approachable, patient, positive and helpful. Everyone she interacts with is treated with respect and kindness, whether a student, parent or fellow staff member."

Rodolph added that Beyer is "the epitome of the CARE Award."

Beyer received a plaque and a gift basket from local businesses in recognition of his efforts. Local sponsors of the CARE Award include Canby Kiwanis, State Farm Insurance-Matt Olsen, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Backstop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth Marketplace, Gwynn's Coffeehouse, Puddin' River Chocolates and Team Spirit.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

June 2018
Photo of Troy Soles

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Troy Soles, English Teacher at Canby High School and Past-President of Canby Education Association.

CHS Principal Greg Dinse nominated Troy to receive the award. "Creative and supportive, Mr. Soles fosters an inviting classroom of respect where all students are safe and can take risks academically and socially," wrote Dinse.

"He doesn’t 'manage' students. He leads them through the curriculum and helps them authentically engage with activities in a manner where students enjoy tasks rather than just work through assignments," continued Dinse. "Mr. Soles’ enthusiasm for teaching and positive energy are the key factors that promote many students to perform and exceed expectations"

Troy also just wrapped up his tenure as President of the Teachers' Union, the Canby Education Association. Dinse also acknowledged his dedication in that role.

"A proactive, problem solver, he works closely with school and district staff to address school improvement and areas of concern. His efforts on behalf of students and staff have contributed greatly in improving communications and creating a collaborative professional culture at our school," explained Dinse.

Congratulations, Troy.

A special thank you to the sponsors of this award – without their generosity this community recognition opportunity wouldn't be possible. Thank you to: Canby Kiwanis, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth's Thriftway, Gwynn's Coffee House, and Team Spirit.

If you know a teacher, counselor, coach or support staff that has made a difference in your life, the life of a child, or in our community, consider a CARE Award nomination.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

May 2018
Photo of Brian Huggins

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Brian Huggins, Fourth Grade Teacher at Lee Elementary School.

Kandi Stegmeier nominated Brian to receive the award because "he is such a leader, example, and encourager to all the students in the Canby School District and in the community is completely committed to her role as an educator and carries out her work with kindness, grace, and a positive attitude."

"Even 20 years ago, Mr. Huggins stood out to my kids as he always had a smile on his face and he is always so welcoming to everyone. He is not only is a teacher, but was a basketball coach for Canby and he built those girls' confidence so high," Stegmeier's submission read. "My daughter, who is now 21, talks about her coach and how he was awesome. He never cared if they lost; he always encouraged them and that's what kids need these days to make the world a happy place."

Brian's well known in the community. Even if he wasn't your coach or your teacher, Stegmeier says you can still feel his impact.

"If you're having a bad day and run into him, he's guaranteed to change your day," wrote Stegmeier.

Congratulations, Brian. Click HERE to see how organizers surprised him!

A special thank you to the sponsors of this award – without their generosity this community recognition opportunity wouldn't be possible. Thank you to: Canby Kiwanis, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth's Thriftway, Gwynn's Coffee House, and Team Spirit.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

April 2018
Photo of Nicole Nelson

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased toannounce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Nicole Nelson, Kindergarten Teacher at Carus Elementary School.

Mary Young, Carus Head Secretary, nominated Nicole to receive the award because “she is completely committed to her role as an educator and carries out her work with kindness, grace, and a positive attitude.”

“Nicole shows her kids genuine love and care every single day and all her students know that she is truly on their team, and will do whatever it takes to help them succeed,” Young’s submission read. “Former students still look to her as a trusted mentor and a source of support.”

It's not just Nicole’s ability to connect with her students and families that earns her high praise; it's also her commitment to the staff at Carus.

“Colleagues benefit from Nicole’s kindness on a daily basis. She is always ready to encourage, support, and help find the humor in stressful situations.”

Congratulations, Nicole.

A special thank you to the sponsors of this award – without their generosity this community recognition opportunity wouldn’t be possible. Thank you to: Canby Kiwanis, Columbia Bank, DirectLink, The Wild Hare, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Rice Time, The Human Bean, Cutsforth’s Thriftway, Gwynn’s Coffee House, and Team Spirit.If you know a teacher, counselor, coach or support staff that has made a difference in your life, the life of a child, or in our community, consider nominating him/her for a CARE Award.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

February 2018
Photo of Jodi Gelder

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby BusinessCommunity are pleased to announce thefollowing Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award recipient:

Jodi Gelder, Cap English Teacher

Jodi was nominated by one of her students: "I am nominating Ms. Gelder because she knows how to properly handle it when someone needs emotional support and she is very good at helping people with their work even when they are frustrated or in a bad mood."

Principal Dinse is also grateful for Ms. Gelder's excellent work with students saying, "Jodi grabs those kids who might fall by the wayside and possibly drop out, and provides them not only a good academic education that gets them all to graduation (which is just amazing, if you want to see someone who has a thumb on graduation rates, see what Jodi does with those kids) but Jodi also teaches them the skills that they really need to be successful in life."

Congratulations, Ms. Gelder!

The CARE Award is sponsored by the following local businesses: Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Wild Hare, Cutsforth's Marketplace, The Human Bean, DirectLink, Columbia Bank, and Rice Time.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

January 2018
Photo of Chris Gilbert

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award recipient:

Chris Gilbert, ELD Teacher, Migrant Coordinator at Canby High School

Chris Gilbert has been teaching at Canby High School for 18 years. Chris is a constant advocate for his students. He is thoughtful and kind and puts students' needs first always. He works with students after school on scholarship applications and has played a huge part in improving the CHS graduation rate and making college accessible for migrant, English Language Learners (ELL), and monitored students. He works tirelessly and is not afraid to make suggestions or to challenge administrators to think differently for the success of his students. Chris became the migrant coordinator last year and has revamped the monitoring process to make it better for migrant students and parents. He is a leader in his department and in the school - he is a "go to" person for administration and for this he is deeply appreciated. His knowledge, positive advocacy, forward thinking and love for kids makes Canby High School a great place for his students!

Congratulations, Chris.

The CARE Award is sponsored by the following local businesses: Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Wild Hare, Cutsforth's Marketplace, The Human Bean, DirectLink, Columbia Bank, and Rice Time.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

December 2017
Photo of Anna Jones and Stacey Ackerman

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award recipients:

Stacey Ackerman, Counselor at Carus Elementary School Anna Jones, Kindergarten Teacher at Carus Elementary School

Stacey Ackerman has made a huge impact not just at Carus Elementary - she's made an impact throughout the Carus community! She started Carus Cares, a program focused on securing everything from shoes to hairbrushes for families in need. Stacey also began the giving tree program and she coordinates care baskets for those going through troubling times. Within the school, Stacey oversees the peer mentoring program where students develop their leadership skills and empathy for others. She has a big heart and a genuine desire help every student succeed.

Anna Jones is a first year teacher whose positive attitude is infectious to her students and all who are fortunate enough to work with her. Although there are challenges associated with learning the ropes as a new teacher, Anna's perseverance and team-player attitude make her an example of grace in action. Anna is appreciated for her flexibility and the many innovative ideas she brings to her teaching. As one of her colleagues puts it, "Carus is very lucky to have her!"

The CARE Award is sponsored by the following local businesses: Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Wild Hare, Cutsforth's Marketplace, The Human Bean, DirectLink, Columbia Bank, and Rice Time.

From left to right: Matt Olsen, Brenda Griffin, Stacey Ackerman, Anna Jones, and Sam Thompson

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

October 2017
Photo of Nancy Thompson

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award recipient:

Nancy Thompson, physical therapist at Eccles Elementary School.Trip Goodall and CARE Award recipient, Nancy ThompsonSpecial Education Instructional Assistant, Laurie Barrese nominated Nancy for the award saying, "I met Nancy in 2014 when I came to work at Eccles Elementary. I was new to the district and my position. She was helpful and kind, teaching me so much during the last three years. Nancy supports many children in the Canby School District and her assistance is not limited to just physical therapy. She is a teacher and mentor, an advocate for all children who cross her path and supports all staff with whom she works. Her care, compassion and dedication to the children and staff of Canby embodies the spirit of the CARE Award."

Laurie shared this recent example of Nancy's dedication when she told us, "About two weeks ago Nancy and I were with a student and we had a discussion about whether or not a bike could be used during recess to allow greater freedoms and most importantly, fun. A couple of days later Nancy showed up at our school with a 3-wheeled trike. This will allow our student greater flexibility and mobility, while increasing stamina. This trike is used during PE class, recess and throughout our halls as we travel. The great thing about Nancy is that she always delivers. She has many responsibilities but first and foremost is her commitment and dedication to all her kids. Just to be clear, every kid that catches her eye is one of hers. She works tirelessly to meet the needs of all and clearly exceeds expectations. I consider it an honor and privilege to be part of her team."

Congratulations, Nancy.

The CARE Award is sponsored by the following local businesses: Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Wild Hare, Cutsforth's Marketplace, The Human Bean, DirectLink, Columbia Bank, and Rice Time.

By: Kristen Wohlers, Canby Herald

May 2017
Photo of Kathryn Huserik

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Kathryn Huserik, fifth grade teacher at Eccles Elementary School.

Kathryn received TWO nominations for the CARE Award; one from Eccles Principal Andy McKean and the other from Eccles Resource Teacher Margie Sono.

"Mrs. Huserik is extremely dedicated to her students and makes connections with them that last a lifetime," Principal McKean's submission read. "She creates a respectful place where students' lives matter. her classroom community is student-focused, where students feel heard and know that they belong."

Sono echoes these comments, agreeing that Mrs. Huserik goes above and beyond. She especially appreciates that Kathryn works hard to ensure that students on IEPs get additional support. Additionally, Mrs. Huserik has high expectations for all her students.

"She is tough and holds all her students to high standards so they can reach their full potential," explained Sono. "I think the one thing that has impressed me the most about Kathryn is how much she cares about her students. Sometimes this might not make her very popular because she is 'tough,' but the motivation behind it is that she wants her students to be the best they can be and she's not concerned about her popularity."

It's a good time to recognize Mrs. Huserik. She's retiring at the end of the school year after 25-years in the District.

Congratulations, Kathryn.

The CARE Award is sponsored by the following local businesses: Back Stop Bard & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Wild Hare, Cutsforth's Marketplace, The Human Bean, DirectLink, Columbia Bank, and Rice Time.

April 2017

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Leticia Angel, Campus Security Specialist and MEChA Advisor at CHS.

CHS Associate Principal Kimie Carroll nominated Leticia to receive the award.

"Leticia is amazing. She was hired two years ago as our Campus Security Specialist and immediately jumped in, making positive relationships with students and doing whatever was needed for our school," Carroll's submission read.

Not only did Leticia jump right in to her position at CHS, she also became the MEChA advisor. MEChA is a student organization that promotes higher education, culture, and history. It stands for Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztan.

"Her club recently organized the Unity Rally with Leadership students, which brought students, staff, and community together," explained Carroll. "Leticia has positively impacted not only her student leaders; she has impacted the entire school. We are better because of her."

The CARE Committee surprised Leticia with the Award during a MEChA meeting. Take a look at just how surprised she was! VIDEO

Congratulations, Leticia.

March 2017

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Sandy Kahut, Math Teacher at Ninety-One School.

Click HERE to see the surprise announcement:

One of Sandy's students, Caleb Chupp, nominated her to receive the award.

"Mrs. Kahut has been a very admirable figure for me here at Ninety-One, and has greatly improved my education. Whether it be by her humor, or her connection with students, both academically or personally," Chupp's submission read.

It's not just Mrs. Kahut's ability to connect with her students that earns her high praise, it's also her commitment to seeing her students succeed.

"There is a teacher that connects with students, and interacts with them in positive ways, and then there is the teacher that gets the whole class to work, and understand the topic, but not necessarily on a personal level. However, Mrs. Kahut can be both," explained Chupp. "She teaches the unit and explains directions; if there is any confusion, she will work individually with students to help them understand."

There's also data to show Mrs. Kahut is one of the most well-respected educators in our district: the Facebook Live video feed of the award announcement has been viewed by more than 1,500 people, many of whom have left comments about how well-deserved this honor is.

Congratulations, Sandy.

February 2017

Congratulations to our February CARE (Canby Area Recognition of Excellence) Award winner, Anne Busse, Special Education Teacher at Knight Elementary School.

Nancy Thompson and Dianne Holme nominated Anne for the award because she “exemplifies a passionate, committed, creative teacher who consistently puts her students first.”

Anne works hard to access additional resources to help better her students’ lives. She gives of her personal time and resources to enhance her classroom learning environment.

“Anne enriches student’s lives by meeting them where they are while encouraging them to reach their fullest potential,” explained Thompson and Holme. “Her students love her as they trust and respect her efforts in helping them. Anne is a well-loved and admired teacher and individual.”

Congratulations, Anne.

December 2016

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Adam Dwight, Building Tech at Carus Elementary School. Click HERE to see the video.

Randee Onion nominated Adam for the award because he helped bring science fiction to Carus.

Adam has been instrumental in helping a student, who is battling cancer, attend class remotely. He worked with the technology department and the ESD to create a "robot" that allows the student to participate in class through an iPad and motorized "body." This device allows the student to participate in class, see and interact with his classmates, and to join discussions.

"You can tell he is happy to be with us by the smile that fills his little robot face," explained Onion. "This is all possible because of Adam. He went out of his way, above and beyond, to bring this student back to Carus. For this he deserves to be celebrated."

Congratulations, Adam.

November 2016
Nov2017

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

Sande Ely, KEY Program Skills Trainer at Baker Prairie Middle School.

Erick Welsh nominated Sande for the award because she “has the amazing ability to be compassionate and consistent while still motivating students to achieve their highest potential.”

Sande often goes to her students’ community and athletic events to provide moral support they may not get otherwise.

“I know that countless students owe their success to her steadfast commitment to education in Canby,” explained Welsh. “Sande comes to work with an unbreakable spirit. She is an inspiration to myself and many others.”

Congratulations, Sande.

October 2016
October 2016

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

DIANNE HOLME, District Nurse.

Director of Student Services Lauretta Manning nominated Dianne for the award because she “works tirelessly to ensure the medical health and safety of students. This may mean making daily trips to ensure that a student receives the proper care for diabetes. She works evenings and weekends to contact parents, scrounge materials or research resources for students and families.”

Dianne recently spent time pursuing scholarships for students to attend a camp for children with diabetes.

“Her commitment to the field of nursing is unwavering and she continues to go above and beyond at all times in her dedication for the welfare of students and families,” explained Director Manning. “I know I am not alone in recognizing the exceptional work of Dianne!”

For her recognition, Ms. Holme received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and will be able to select from a variety of contributions from local businesses.

September 2016
Sept2016

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient:

CINDY GONZALEZ, Eccles Elementary School Building Engineer.

Principal Andy McKean nominated Cindy for the award because she “shows tremendous initiative and demonstrates amazing pride in how our school looks in every area at every moment.”

Cindy was instrumental in helping teachers empty their classrooms over the summer for a carpet installation. She also navigated the delivery of 12 pallets of curricular materials.

“In all my years of administration, I’ve yet to have a custodian with a more positive, flexible, and willing attitude,” explained Mr. McKean.

For her recognition, Ms. Gonzalez received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and will be able to select from a variety of contributions from local businesses.

January, February & March 2016
JANFEBMARCH

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce the following Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) award recipients:

RANDEE ONION, 3rd grade teacher at Carus Elementary, has been named the January educator of the month. Randee was nominated for her teaching passion and her tireless devotion to impart a love of learning to her students.

CARLOS ORDAZ CRUZ, 2nd grade teacher at Trost Elementary, has been named the February educator of the month. Carlos is a visiting teacher from Mexico and was nominated for the way in which he helps students feel confident. He strives for excellence in his teaching and is approachable.

R.E.A.C.H. (Resources, Education, and Community Help) Center staff members: EVELIA JUAREZ, VERONICA MARTINEZ, MAGGIE ROSARIO, and BRENDA SPLITSTOSER have been named the March educators of the month. These four staff members were nominated because they provide a critical role in supporting the district's economically disadvantaged and Hispanic students. They spend hours communicating with students and parents to assist these families in navigating the school system and also connecting them with community services as needed. In addition, they provide translation and interpreting services critical to communicating with students and their families.

For their recognition, the recipients received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and were able to select from a variety of contributions from local businesses. These include The Wild Hare, The Place to Be Café, Cutsforth Thriftway, Rice Time, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Canby Telcom, Columbia Bank, Big 5 Sporting Goods, and Ultimate Team Spirit.

DECEMBER 2015
DECEMBER2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce Adam Gingerich has been named the December educator of the month. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating students by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning.

Adam Gingerich is a 5th grade teacher at Eccles Elementary and was nominated for his innovative, experiential teaching approach. He strives for excellence in his teaching and with his students. Adam goes above and beyond to create lessons using innovative tools that help kids connect their learning with real life experiences. He encourages students to be problem solvers. He implements incentives such as an award for the best mistake of the day. Students are excited to learn and cannot wait to get to school every day to find out what learning adventure awaits!

For his recognition, Mr. Gingerich received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and can select from a variety of contributions from local businesses. These include The Wild Hare, The Place to Be Café, Cutsforth Thriftway, Rice Time, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Canby Telcom, Columbia Bank, Big 5 Sporting Goods, and Ultimate Team Spirit.If you know a staff member you feel positively impacts the lives of students in Can

NOVEMBER 2015
NOV2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce Kathleen Jeskey has been named the November educator of the month. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating students by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning. Kathleen is a 6th grade bilingual teacher at Trost Elementary and was nominated for her commitment to nurture a love of learning in the classroom. She is an advocate for her students and dedicated to equal opportunities for all learners.

For her recognition, Mrs. Jeskey received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and can select from a variety of contributions from local businesses. These include The Wild Hare, The Place to Be Café, Cutsforth Thriftway, Rice Time, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Canby Telcom, Columbia Bank, Big 5 Sporting Goods, and Ultimate Team Spirit.

OCTOBER 2015
OCT2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are pleased to announce Jaime Netter has been named the October educator of the month. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating students by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning.

As the School to Career Coordinator, Jaime Netter has helped grow Canby High School’s Career and Technical Education Program (CTE) into one that is a model across the state. She co-wrote a revitalization grant that expanded the internship program and has worked to make Manufacturing Day an event other schools want to attend. She also testified before the state legislature on the importance of CTE in education. Visitors across the state tour our School to Career Center. Mrs. Netter works tirelessly with our students, staff and community to promote college and career readiness skills necessary to succeed in life.

For her recognition, Mrs. Netter received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and can select from a variety of contributions from local businesses. These include The Wild Hare, The Place to Be Café, Cutsforth Thriftway, Rice Time, Back Stop Bar & Grill, Pudding River Chocolates, Canby Telcom, Columbia Bank, Big 5 Sporting Goods, and Ultimate Team Spirit.

September 2015
SEPT2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby School District are pleased to announce the September Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, STEVE FEARING, Canby High School Special Education Teacher. Mr. Fearing was nominated for his dedication to the Canby community and his exemplary work with students. Please join us in congratulating Mr. Fearing!

April 2015
APRIL2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby School District are pleased to announce the April Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, BROOKS GINGERICH, Canby High School Choir Director. Mr. Gingerich was nominated for his outstanding work with students and inspirational directorship. Please join us in congratulating Mr. Gingerich!

March 2015
March2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby School District are pleased to announce the March Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, PATTI LANG, 3rd grade teacher at Lee Elementary. Ms. Lang was nominated for her extraordinary work with students. Please join us in congratulating her!

February 2015
FEB2015

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby School District are pleased to announce the February Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, Grace Saad, teacher at Ackerman Academies. Grace Saad was nominated for her outstanding work with at-risk students. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Saad!

January 2015
Jan2015

Canby School District is pleased to announce the January Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, KAREN SEIWALD, music teacher at Ninety-One School and Carus Elementary School. Mrs. Seiwald was nominated for her calm demeanor with students and outstanding teaching expertise. Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Seiwald!

December 2014

Canby School District is pleased to announce the December Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, KELLY BISHOP, fifth grade teacher at Knight Elementary School. Mrs. Bishop will be presented with the award at the December 18th Board Meeting. Please join the Canby School District Board of Directors and Canby School District Staff in congratulating Mrs. Bishop for her exemplary work with students, parents, and staff!

November 2014
NOV2014

Canby School District is pleased to announce the November Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (C.A.R.E.) Award recipient, NICOLE READ, English Language Development Teacher at Ninety-One School. Mrs. Read was presented with the award at the November 20th Board Meeting and recognized for her exemplary work with students, their parents, and staff. Please join the Canby School District Board of Directors and Canby School District Staff in congratulating Mrs. Read for a job well done!

September 2014
SEPT2014

This month’s Canby Area Recognition of Excellence award was presented to Wayne Layman, Canby School District Facilities Manager. Mr. Layman was nominated for outstanding effort in oversight of the Canby School District (CSD) custodial/maintenance team. Mr. Layman and his team ensure that CSD school grounds and facilities are safe and conducive to learning for all students and staff. Please join the Canby School District staff, Board of Directors, and Canby community in congratulating Mr. Layman!

March 2014
MARCH2014

Dawson Receives March CARE Award

By Web Reporter Chloe Bell

March is known for St. Patrick's Day (equinox takes place on the same day), Mardi Gras, and who can forget March Madness! Wow is March filled with boodles of entertainment and fun. Speaking of March happenings, the Canby School District is filled with dedicated teachers who strive to provide their students a premium education, enhancing their skills in the classroom and sharpening their natural abilities. Out of them all, Canby High School teacher Paula Dawson was singled out for Canby Kiwanis Club's Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) award for March 2014.

Dawson is an educator whose coworkers notice her putting in extra hours helping students in and out of the classroom. Dawson creates a safe environment where she influences them to "strive for excellence, commit yourself to a goal on time, and have a lasting impact on others around you." She makes the students feel extremely comfortable, helping them to blossom and reach their full potential. A senior student, who has worked with Dawson since her freshman year, says Mrs. Dawson works hard on students' behalf and makes school more enjoyable. "She helps us step out of our comfort zones and has made high school a blast," the student said. Dawson has helped develop students, through their educational experience with her, into powerful, confident students who are ready to overcome any challenge they are faced with.

It's clear; Paula Dawson deserves this award for all her hard work and dedication to her students. Matt Olsen, Canby Kiwanis member who originated the CARE award program last year, says that she "does an excellent job educating children." Those who know Dawson say she has a large heart filled with contagious joy, commitment and patience. Canby School District applauds Dawson's achievement. Paula Dawson deserves the CARE award in every way. She has clearly won the March CARE award teacher title!

December 2013 & January 2014
DEC2013-Jan2014

Written By: Olivia Baggerly, Student Web Reporter

The Canby School District has always thoroughly exemplified unity, pride, respect, high work ethic, and perseverance in their programs. However, without the many hardworking, praised teachers Canby has to offer, many of these titles would be absent. With great honor and gratitude, the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) program has awarded Lacey Davis of Canby High School and Angela Kastrava of Knight Elementary to be their monthly winners.

Lacey Davis, one of the top Science and Agricultural Teaches at Canby High School, has humbly earned her award for many reasons. Lacey displays a level of time commitment to her job that students feel very gracious for. Kade Orendorff, a junior at Canby High School, has spoken very highly of Mrs. Davis and explains his reasoning for nominating her. He claims “even though Mrs. Davis is very busy with family, including a young daughter, she always manages to fit in time outside of class for tests, finishing labs, and homework support.” During an interview with Mrs. Davis, I asked how she overcame challenges of being a teacher and having a family. She simply said “I have learned to teach myself that some things can just wait for tomorrow!” Lacey’s love of learning is very contagious and it leaves a lasting impact on students. She is a teacher that I always see smiling and laughing, engaging every single student (even teachers) around her. Kade said, “she [Ms. Davis] loves teaching and wants you to succeed… she treats her students like 32 people that have individual and personal needs and deserve a good learning experience.” Lacey’s favorite subject to teach is Animal Science and Vet Science, and occasionally uses animals for labs and examples. Lacey does very well at keeping kids engaged throughout class (which is challenging these days) and can even make something “as dull as law or vocabulary exciting.” She tells stories, asks opinions and has “risk taking tendencies” that leaves kids wanting to know more. She loves the students and staff she works with and feels very honored and grateful for them. She has “inspired” kids to be better students and strives to make things better for the department, which is why she deserves every ounce of this award!

Angela Kastrava, an ESL teacher at Knight Elementary, possesses many attributes and abilities that have been recognized and rewarded. Angela works with Spanish-speaking elementary students and gives them a firm base in their home language as they work towards an all-English curriculum later on in their school career. Jean Metzger, a volunteer for the Adopt-a-Teacher program who also works as an aid for Angela, reported on how impressed she is by Angela’s cheerful, upbeat attitude and how she is always attentive to the children. “I love the way she interacts with the children,” says Jean. Angela loves being a part of the children’s learning process and strives to overcome challenges such as “helping students succeed in school who do not read regularly at home.” A huge part of Angela’s teaching style is to encourage a love for reading in kids through a various selection of books and creative activities in her classroom. Angela believes “reading is the foundation of academic learning and a gateway to a prosperous life.” She attends to the children who need extra support by intervention services and tutoring during prep time. By having the children read, Angela says “it broadens their vocabulary as well as their ability to make connections across texts and in the classroom.” Angela is very grateful for this award and feels fortunate to work in a district that takes the time to give such an award. Congratulations Angela, you deserve this noble award for your superiority as a teacher!

November 2013

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are proud to announce Cindy Jarmer as the November Teacher of the Month, respectively. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating our children by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning, challenging our children to strive for better and enhancing the lives of our children… one student at a time!

Mrs. Jarmer is in her 32nd year teaching in the Canby School District and all of those years have been spent at Eccles Elementary. She began teaching 1st grade for five years and, for the next 27 years, focused on teaching 2nd and 3rd grade. She was born into a family of teachers, as her father was also a teacher who taught 7th and 8th grade math. Mrs. Jarmer’s nomination included that she “has a love for each and every one of her students” and how she “works hard to keep her classroom warm and welcoming for her students.”

September & October 2013
SEPTOCT2013

Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are proud to announce Andrew Pauls and Heidi Keyser as the September and October Teacher of the Month, respectively. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating our children by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning, challenging our children to strive for better and enhancing the lives of our children… one student at a time!

Mr. Pauls is in his third year teaching in the Canby School District and his second year at Ninety-One School. His nomination stated that he “goes above and beyond bringing a fresh creative atmosphere to the classroom”. In his 4th/5th combination class of 31 students, Mr. Pauls maintains a calm and engaging demeanor with lively discussions and learning. The after-school math club he started has been a wonderful challenge for math students looking to gain more expertise.

Ms. Keyser is in her 18th year with Canby School District – all of those years were at Carus Elementary School. She teaches 2nd grade and is turning her students into math thinkers who now look for the “why” behind the math. She is a caring, confident, fun-loving, and compassionate teacher who understands the need to differentiate lessons and concepts to fit each child’s individual needs. Ms. Keyser builds lasting relationships with students who often return to visit her after their time in her classroom has ended.

For their recognition, both received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and were able to select from a variety of contributions from The Human Bean, The Place to Be, Wild Hare Saloon, Canby Telcom, Ultimate Team Spirit, Total Body Pilates, Ebner’s Custom Meats, and Backstop Bar & Grill. CARE Award nomination forms are available through the Canby School District’s website at www.canby.K12.or.us.

Anuncio sobre el Premio CARE para el Maestro del Mes de Septiembre y Octubre:

El Kiwanis de Canby y la comunidad de negocios de Canby con orgullo anuncian a Andrew Pauls y Heidi Keyser como el Maestro del Mes de septiembre y octubre, respectivamente. El Reconocimiento a la Excelencia en el Área de Canby (CARE por sus siglas en inglés) es otorgado a maestros y personal quienes sobresalen en la educación de nuestros estudiantes al desarrollar los principios que apoyan el amor al aprendizaje de por vida, impulsando a nuestros estudiantes a esforzarse y así mejorar las vidas de nuestros estudiantes… ¡un estudiante a la vez!

Es el tercer año del Sr. Pauls como maestro en el Distrito Escolar de Canby y su segundo año en la Escuela Noventa y Uno. En la nominación decía que él “va más allá de su deber para proporcionar un ambiente creativo en el salón de clases”. En su clase combinanda de 31 estudiantes de 4to/5to, el Sr. Pauls mantiene una actitud calmada e interesante con conversaciones animadas y un aprendizaje activo. El club de matemáticas después de clases que él comenzó ha sido un maravilloso reto para los estudiantes de matemáticas que buscan obtener más experiencia.

La Srita. Keyser ha estado trabajando en el Distrito Escolar de Canby por 18 años- todos esos años han sido en la Escuela Primaria Carus. Ella es maestra de 2do grado y está transformando a sus estudiantes en estudiantes que piensan en matemáticas que buscan el “por qué” detrás de las matemáticas. Ella es una maestra bondadosa, segura de sí misma, divertida-amorosa y compasiva quien entiende la necesidad de diferenciar las lecciones y los conceptos para ajustarse a las necesidades individuales de los estudiantes. La Srita. Keyser desarrolla relaciones duraderas con los estudiantes que seguido regresan a visitarla después que terminan su ciclo escolar con ella.

Por este reconocimiento, ambos recibieron una placa cortesía del Kiwanis de Canby y pudieron elegir de una variedad de contribuciones de parte de The Human Bean, The Place to Be, Wild Hare Saloon, Canby Telcom, Ultimate Team Spirit, Total Body Pilates, Ebner’s Custom Meats, y Backstop Bar & Grill. Los formularios para la nominación al Premio CARE están disponibles por medio de la página Web del Distrito Escolar de Canby en www.canby.K12.or.us.

April & May 2013
APRILMAY2013

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are proud to announce Tonya Peterson and Lynn Olson have been named the April and May educators of the month. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating our children by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning, challenging our children to strive for better… one student at a time!

Tonya Peterson’s nominee describes her as a Reading Teacher Extraordinaire! Ms. Peterson is patient, kind, creative and truly believes in the kids. She’s also a great support system for parents by constantly communicating and lending her knowledge to better the student’s ability to read. She not only helps the kids with reading…but teaches them to CARE about learning.

Lynn is a licensed counselor at Baker Prairie Middle School and a Canby Kiwanis liaison. Students describe her as organized, problem solving with students, staff and community to help each of them achieve his or her goal. She spends many extra hours as the advisor of the Builders Club preparing materials and projects for the students and these projects help our schools, community, nationally and internationally. She knows how to get the most out of students, encouraging them to work together and plan projects.

For their recognition, they both received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and can select from a variety of contributions from local businesses. These include Rice Time, The Wild Hare, Puddin’ River Chocolates, Human Bean, The Place to Be, Total Body Pilates, Canby Telcom, Canby Cinema 8, Snap Fitness, Marci Campbell @ Park Ave Salon & Spa, Ultimate Team Spirit and Columbia State Bank.

January 2013
January 2013

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are proud to announce Kim McKie has been named the January teacher of the month. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating our children by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning, challenges our children to strive for better and enhances the lives of our children… one student at a time!

Kim was recognized by the BPMS Builder’s Club for “her passion for not only teaching life lessons on disabilities in her elective class, but taking that a step further by bringing both a Goal Ball tournament and a Track and Field event for the visually impared for BPMS students to support.” For several years, Kim and her students have hosted these state-wide events for the visually impaired. Kim (who her students describe as “awesome”) was notified of the honor in front of the same students who will be assisting organizing both events. This recognition is very timely as the annual state Goal Ball tournament will be hosted at BPMS, Friday March 1st.

For her recognition, Kim received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and was able to select from a variety of contributions from The Human Bean, Cutsforth’s Thriftway, The Place to Be, Rice Time, Wild Hare Saloon, Snap fitness, Canby Cinemas, Total body Pilates, Puddin’ River Chocolates, Marcie Campbell @ Park Avenue Salon, and Canby Grand Central Station.

November & December 2012
NOVDEC2012

Canby Kiwanis and the Canby Business Community are proud to announce Josh Nichols and Joe Ruwitch have been named the November and December teacher of the month respectively. The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) award is given to teachers and staff who excel in educating our children by building a foundation that supports a lifelong love of learning, challenges our children to strive for better and enhances the lives of our children… one student at a time!

Mr. Nichols is in his sixth year teaching math at Baker Prairie Middle School. He was nominated for his efforts above and beyond normal for both students and parents. Josh is constantly available to parents and creates multiple avenues for information. His nomination stated that we are “blessed to have such a dedicated individual as a teacher in our community.”

Joe has been teacher students how to love chemistry for over 12 years at Canby High School. His nomination came from a former student who now attends OSU and her parents. This student admitted didn’t like chemistry but worked hard in his class out of respect for Mr. Ruwitch. Now in chemistry at OSU, she wrote to her parents saying, “If you see Mr. Ruwitch tell him thank you for making me pay attention. Everything we are learning in chemistry is stuff I already know.” The parent went on to add “I am grateful for the lifetime of learning that he has inspired in my daughter.”

For their recognition, both received a plaque courtesy of Canby Kiwanis and were able to select from a variety of contributions from The Human Bean, Cutsforth’s Thriftway, The Place to Be, Rice Time, Wild Hare Saloon, Snap fitness, Canby Cinemas, Total body Pilates, Puddin’ River Chocolates, Marcie Campbell @ Park Avenue Salon, and Canby Grand Central Station.

September 2012
Sept2012

Here is the Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) Teacher of the Month award winner for the month of September! Congratulations!

Terri Cummings, Canby High School

October 2012
OCT2012

The Canby Area Recognition of Excellence (CARE) program has named Carol Lee Schwalm as the Canby School District October teacher of the month. Carol Lee has dedicated 16 of her 30 year career to the students in Canby and she currently works at Trost with special needs students. In her nomination, Carol Lee is described as kind, creative, and sincere about education. Teaching isn’t just a job to Carol Lee, people can tell she considers it more of a “calling”. She maintains a positive relationship with parents and fosters a strong school-to-home connection with her creative ideas. Please join CARE in congratulating Carol Lee Schwalm for her exemplary service to Canby students.