View our 2012 Honorees below.

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MARY MILLER, MCEC, EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIAL EDUCATION
Parents in Minnetonka’s Early Childhood program often meet Mary Miller for the first time when they receive news that their child’s educational path may include special education services. Parents leave these meetings with hope and a new advocate for their child. As the coordinator for Minnetonka’s Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program, Mary works with teachers and parents to create individualized education plans for some of the youngest learners in our District. She is innovative and is always thinking of new ways to reach students through technology and different instructional models. Mary’s 25 years of vision, leadership and dedication has created a culture of student-centered compassion and professionalism in the ECSE program.

MEGHAN HELDMAN, CLEAR SPRINGS, TEACHER
Insightful, reflective and empowering are a few of the words parents use to describe Meghan Heldman. She creates a warm, child-centered environment designed to help every child in her classroom thrive. Meghan considers all aspects of learning in her students and meets their needs intellectually, socially and emotionally. She knows her students individually and will find alternative approaches to her instruction if she notices a student is struggling to understand a particular concept. Meghan believes that all children are capable of excellence and that it is simply a matter of finding the right approach to unlock their potential. 

JANE SLADKY VALLEY, DEEPHAVEN, TEACHER
First grade students in Jane Sladky Valley’s classroom look forward to learning in a positive, warm and encouraging environment each day. While creating a disciplined atmosphere, Jane makes learning fun. She sets high expectations for her students and they consistently meet those expectations. Jane gives her undivided attention to each student allowing them to achieve great things. When she sees students struggling with math or reading, Jane spends extra time with them until they are secure in their newly acquired skills. With Jane’s encouragement, her students continually gain confidence and grow intellectually and emotionally.

JENNIFER HANSON, EXCELSIOR, TEACHER
Jennifer Hanson is motivated by the look students give her after they understand a concept for the very first time. When you enter her classroom, the passion and enthusiasm for teaching young students is tangible. Jen takes the time to really get to know her students and their learning abilities, then challenges them to excel academically. At the beginning of each year, she sets classroom expectations and routines that allow students to feel comfortable and thrive. Jen supports her students beyond the classroom as well. Her students love to see her at school events such as the Dash for Cash and the Halloween parade.

NIKI DANOU, GROVELAND, TEACHER
As one of the first English classroom teachers to transition into a Spanish Immersion classroom, Niki Danou is a true pioneer and leader. Prior to the adoption of the language immersion model, Niki worked behind the scenes to help create instructional models and curricula for immersion teachers. In her classroom, she is committed, supportive and creative with her second grade students. Niki is reflective in her teaching and continuously looks for ways to grow professionally. She is one of 20 National Board Certified Teachers in Minnetonka and is a mentor for colleagues as they go through the certification process.

BRENDAN MCCASHIN, MINNEWASHTA, TEACHER
For the past 13 years, Brendan McCashin has been an exemplary educator. His passion for teaching is evident when you walk into his classroom. He works tirelessly to improve and perfect his lessons so they are effective for each student. After school and on weekends, Brendan spends extra time to make sure students have feedback necessary for growth. He is always thinking about the emotional, social and cognitive development of his students. Brendan’s motivation to impact his students comes from his love of learning and the teaching profession. Brendan sets a great example for his students to follow.

LORI ANDERSON, SCENIC HEIGHTS, TEACHER
When students walk into Lori Anderson’s classroom each morning, their faces light-up with a excitement as they look forward to another day of learning. Lori has a contagious smile and finds innovative ways to reach all learners in her first grade classroom. She is an expert at assessing her students so she can pinpoint the needs of individual learners and help them excel in their studies. Students gain confidence when they work with Lori and are eager to do their best. Lori knows how to inspire her students and create a spark of learning that will last a lifetime.

KATE OHRT, MME, TEACHER
Responding to student email questions about math until 9 p.m. on school nights is just one of the ways Kate Ohrt shows her dedication to students. Her love of teaching math is inspirational as she brings energy and enthusiasm into the classroom. Kate makes personal connections with each of her students and knows how to deliver lessons in ways that excite and engage middle school students. She has high expectations for herself and for her students. Parents appreciate consistent and reliable communication about what is taught in class and tips for how they can work as a team for their child’s success.

POLLY PFEIFER, MMW, TEACHER
Polly Pfeifer shares her love of science with her 6th grade students. Always planning interesting science labs, she teaches scientific theories in a fun way. Polly identifies strengths in all her students, offers friendly encouragement and challenges them to learn even more. She often tells her students the importance of studying science and math in high school and beyond and encourages them to take accelerated science classes. Her dedication to her students goes beyond the classroom. As a 6th grade advisor, she has led student service activities for the ICA Food Shelf, meal preparation for Feed My Starving Children and helped raise money for children with cancer.

KIM SEAMANS, MHS, TEACHER
Students in Kim Seamans’ special education classroom know they have a lifelong friend and advocate. Kim sees the potential in each of her students and challenges them to excel beyond their personal expectations. She adapts her teaching to meet each student where they are at—whether they have unique medical needs or can only communicate through assistive technologies. Kim works hard to create a culture of acceptance for all students at Minnetonka High School. You will often see her students in general education classes or eating lunch with friends in the cafeteria like any other high school student.

SONJA SAUNDERS, MHS, TEACHER
Each year when National Merit Semifinalist students recognize their most influential teachers, Sonja Saunders is repeatedly named. Students admire her dedication, commitment and sincere love of teaching.  Sonja has a unique ability to build a rapport with students that is genuine and calming. Outside of the classroom, she participates in the student book club, ran the literary magazine and started a knitting club for students. Students respect Sonja because she challenges them academically and also helps them develop into mature and well-rounded individuals.

CURT CARPENTER, CLEAR SPRINGS ELEMENTARY, PRINCIPAL
Students at Clear Springs know and admire their principal, Curt Carpenter. He greets them by name as they come to school each morning. Mr. Carpenter’s style is very personal and his enthusiasm is contagious. His ever-present smile and positive attitude are the cornerstone of the warm and nurturing environment at the school. Curt is innovative and is always looking for ways to make the school environment better for all students. He was a key member of the implementation of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program and has organized events, like pancake breakfasts, to recognize students for doing the right thing.

CATHY LYNCH, SCENIC HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY, SCHOOL SECRETARY
The main office at Scenic Heights Elementary is always buzzing with activity. From phone calls, letters, emails and people just stopping by, there is rarely a quiet moment. Despite the busy pace, Cathy always makes time for students when they need her help. She is friendly and approachable and students know they can go to Cathy with whatever needs or questions they have. Cathy is often the first person visitors meet when they come to Scenic Heights. Her warm and bubbly personality makes them feel welcome while creating a great first impression.

TRENT BOYUM, ARTS CENTER ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR/PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Trent Boyum has worn many hats since he joined the Minnetonka Theatre staff in 2003. He has directed several community shows including The Sound of Music and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Trent’s true passion is helping students develop skills on stage. He created the Arts Center on 7 Summer Theatre Camps and the Broadway Kids program for Minnetonka elementary and middle school students. This past winter, Trent created and directed Minnetonka’s first musical at the elementary level—101 Dalmatians. Trent is also the coordinator for this year’s Fine Arts Festival, which provides hands-on activities for students of all ages.

MARK MASON, MINNETONKA HIGH SCHOOL, CUSTODIAN
Dependable, thorough and trustworthy are some of the words colleagues use to describe Mark Mason. As a custodian in the District, he helps to create a safe and clean learning environment for students and staff. Mark works many nights and weekends and is often the go-to guy for helping visitors and guests with facility needs. No matter the request, Mark works quickly and professionally. He is a leader and often travels around the District to fill in for building engineers or to train new custodians. Mark spends many hours outside of work volunteering his time at events like Tour de Tonka.

PAT LARSON, SCENIC HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY, NUTRITION SERVICES
Children learn best when they have been properly fed. At Scenic Heights, Pat Larson prepares nutritious meals for hundreds of students each day which helps fuel their learning. Behind the scenes, Pat works individually with students who have food allergies. She spends time researching and communicating with parents to ensure each meal is safe to eat. Pat truly cares about students and is interested in their activities and achievements. She attends school concerts and other events after her workday, demonstrating her interest in all students at Scenic Heights.

JODI BLAIS, DISTRICT SERVICE CENTER, DISTRICT BENEFITS COORDINATOR
HSA, VEBA and HRA are some of the acronyms Jodi Blais helps decode for District employees. As the Benefits Coordinator for the District, she is a trusted resource for providing employees accurate health insurance information. Jodi is able to take complex state and federal regulations and communicate them in a way employees can understand. Each spring, she travels across the District to meet with employees about their health insurance options and the enrollment process. Jodi is always patient and kind as she helps employees understand information about their health insurance plan. 

JEANNE KRAKER, MINNETONKA MIDDLE SCHOOL WEST, PARAPROFESSIONAL
Jeanne Kraker is an asset to students and staff at Middle School West. As a math paraprofessional, Jeanne’s passion for working with students at all math levels and enthusiasm for her craft is why students rely on her for support. Whether they have a simple question, want help preparing for a test, or feel overwhelmed by math, students know they can turn to Jeanne for extra help. She demonstrates her commitment to students through her before-school math help sessions. Jeanne has built positive relationships with students in all grade levels, with varying abilities, because she is genuinely interested in students doing their best.

JUDY FORD, EXCELSIOR ELEMENTARY, PARAPROFESSIONAL
Students always look forward to spending time with Judy Ford. She takes time to build relationships with her students and knows specific ways to challenge and motivate each of them. Judy sets high expectations for the students she works with and her students consistently rise to the challenge. She arrives at work each morning with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. Teachers love having Judy in their classroom because she understands how to help meet the individual needs of each learner.

KRISTIN GERTON, MINNEWASHTA, MMW, MHS, FOUNDATION & TONKA PRIDE
Kristin Gerton is a dedicated volunteer working on behalf of Minnetonka students, teachers and schools for over 10 years. She has served as PTO President and volunteered for many enrichment programs at Minnewashta Elementary.  At MMW, Kristin served as PTA Vice President and currently serves on several committees.  She also volunteers at the District level with the Minnetonka Public Schools Foundation, Tonka Cares and Tonka Pride.  Kristin makes the entire School District a better place with her constant smile and commitment.

LISA KOEPPEN, DEEPHAVEN VOLUNTEER
For the past three years, Lisa Koeppen has been teaching math enrichment classes to 3rd and 5th grade students at Deephaven Elementary. Volunteering twice a week during the school year, Lisa plans exciting lessons and activities for students to understand advanced math concepts. With her background and training in math education, Lisa enhances the lives of her students by providing a positive and challenging learning environment.  Lisa is a great role model. She is enthusiastic, friendly and devoted to all her students.

ANNE GROTON, GROVELAND VOLUNTEER & DREAM MAKERS DINNER CHAIR
Anne Groton has been an energetic volunteer in the Minnetonka School District since 2003. She spends countless hours volunteering in Groveland classrooms and has organized their Innovation Fair for the last seven years.  As co-chair of the Dream Makers Dinner since 2011, Anne’s vision helped Dream Makers pass the $1 million milestone in funds raised for The Foundation’s Endowment.  Anne works tirelessly to foster an extraordinary level of individual and business support for public education in Minnetonka.

JENNIFER HICKS & WILLOW, MINNEWASHTA READING VOLUNTEERS
Jennifer Hicks and Willow, her golden retriever, volunteer weekly at Minnewashta Elementary. Willow listens to students read books, while Jen offers support and encouragement every step of the way. Willow is a friendly face and great listener to students who may need a little extra help with their reading skills. With Willow’s attention, students gain confidence in reading aloud as they work to improve their fluency skills. Students at Minnewashta improve academically and socially because of Jen and Willow’s weekly visits.

RESA SCHMIDT, ECFE ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBER AND VOLUNTEER
In 2006, Resa Schmidt joined the Early Childhood Family Education Advisory Council and has served in numerous positions. Her welcoming personality has strengthened the Minnetonka Preschool and ECFE programs. Resa is warm, supportive, full of ideas and very energetic. As the membership co-chair she recruited many young parents to the ECFE Advisory Council. Resa is involved in many activities, including the MCEC playground renovation, the ECFE annual garage sale and the ECFE year-end picnic. She is passionate and committed to our community and always puts children and families first.

LOU GRABER, YOUTH PROGRAMS, SKI CLUB VOLUNTEER AND BASKETBALL COACH
Lou Graber has a zest for life and a passion for working with youth. He has been a volunteer with MCE since 2007 and has coached the ski and snowboard club, girls 6th grade basketball team and his grandson’s baseball and football teams. Lou teaches his players that life is not always about winning or losing, it’s about teamwork and doing your personal best. His energy and enthusiasm for sports are contagious. He makes a positive difference with students. His approach to working with young people is effective, and he sets an outstanding example for coaches and parents to follow.

PAM HUMPHREY, ADULT PROGRAMS VOLUNTEER
Committed, focused and friendly are words that describe Pam Humphrey. She is currently the vice chair of the MCE Advisory Council and will chair the Advisory Council next year. Pam has attended countless community education meetings sharing her perspective on programs like youth volleyball, youth basketball, adult enrichment and adult recreation. Pam and her family are legacy volunteers for Tour de Tonka. She seeks the good in every situation and does a great job analyzing programs from the participant’s view point. Pam is a valued member of our community as a behind-the-scenes, get-it-done person.
 
ALARC, BUSINESS PARTNER
ALARC (Active Life and Running Club) was founded by Bill Wenmark in 1981. ALARC has sponsored the Minnetonka Youth Triathlon since 2006, which has had over 1,000 participants during that time. ALARC also supports Tour de Tonka with their 25-foot inflatable wall which is proudly positioned at the starting line at Minnetonka High School every year. ALARC created and organizes the “Ice Dive” every January 1st in Excelsior, which helps to support community groups, such as Minnetonka Diamond Club, Minnetonka Family & Friends, the Excelsior Fire Department and South Lake Police Reserves.