Support staff honored with awards
From fueling students in the cafeteria to morning hugs as they arrive, and from efficiently handling myriads of office duties to providing a caring and helpful media center presence, this year’s Educational Support Staff Award winners have made their mark on Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose Schools.
Four individuals were honored at a recognition event hosted by Resource Training & Solutions on Nov. 20 in St. Cloud. They included Tamra Otten (Educational Support Professional at Buffalo High School), Tess Teichert (Teaching and Learning Director’s Secretary), Susan Van Lith (former Northwinds Elementary School Nutrition Services Manager), and Melissa Wykoff (Principal’s Secretary at Montrose Elementary School of Innovation).
More information about each is included below.
Tamra Otten
There are many logistical duties that factor in to keeping a school’s media center humming, but Otten has distinguished herself by creating an atmosphere that draws in students and staff of all interests.
“Tammy goes beyond these already time-consuming duties in how she creates such a welcoming and positive space, as well as goes out of her way to connect with staff and students,” wrote a BHS staff member who nominated her for the award.
Part of Otten’s ability to engage with the school community comes through questions of the day, fun seasonal décor, and interactive displays. But more importantly, it comes through her genuine care for and interest in those around her.
“I have seen her warm, quirky personality resonate with any and all kinds of students, especially those who may not normally ‘feel seen’ or drawn to academic learning,” said the nomination. “Although she equally upholds school expectations and will be the voice of reminders to help students get on task, she also connects with them through her sense of humor and kindness.”
Otten, who is in her 19th year at BHS after serving for 20 years as a bus driver and driver trainer, said her faith motivates her to care for those around her.
“God reminds me often as to why He has me here. My number one job is to love on these precious students,” she said. “Life can be hard. I want them to know that I am in their corner. I see them, hear them and care about them. I want them to know that they have a place to come and someone will listen. Getting a snack is always a bonus as well. I also have the privilege to do the same for the staff. I love serving them and hopefully making life easier with all of what they do. This is what brings me joy.”
When she learned that she would be the recipient of the award during a staff meeting earlier this school year, Otten was moved to tears.
“I am so honored to receive this award,” she said. “It means the world to me because I know that I have helped students and staff. That’s what it is all about for me.”
Tess Teichert
Now in her 28th year with BHM Schools, Tess Teichert has long been a key facilitator of information for families, new teachers and community members.
“Tess is a wealth of knowledge and her wisdom is appreciated by those who reach out to her,” said a joint nomination submitted by several co-workers. “She is an integral member of our department; we are more effective with her on our team.”
Teichert has distinguished herself by anticipating what others need, then providing it in the most creative, efficient and user-friendly way possible.
A 1994 graduate of Buffalo High School, Teichert gained experience working in an office prior to joining the district as a secretary in the curriculum department. She quickly moved into her current role, and said she feels honored both to serve in the position on a daily basis, and to receive the Education Support Staff Award.
“The recognition means the world to me,” she said. “I never thought I would be where I am today. When the opportunity came to work in a school, I was super excited. I had the privilege of watching my two daughters go through BHM Schools, and it was rewarding watching them go from kindergarten to graduating.
“I am very passionate about helping others. We all work here for the same thing: to support and contribute to the success of our students. I think of myself as one piece of the puzzle.”
Susan Van Lith
Though she retired earlier this month, Van Lith had the opportunity to feed students in two newly opened elementary schools during her 27 years with BHM Schools. She started with the Nutrition Services department in 1997 when Discovery Elementary first opened, and where three of her children were enrolled. In 2006 she moved to brand-new Northwinds Elementary, where she became the manager.
“Prior to working at Discovery, I ran a home daycare for teacher’s children,” Van Lith said. “Once my youngest was in school full time, I decided to look for a job outside my home that would still provide for a work/family balance. I have degrees in sociology and psychology and love kids, so working in the school was a perfect fit.”
A nomination submitted on Van Lith’s behalf said she knows every one of the 400-plus Northwinds students by name, is patient, encouraging, and creates a fun atmosphere with new food and decorations for various occasions.
“Sue makes sure the kitchen and cafeteria are exceptionally clean, safe and inviting, and greets everyone with her warm and genuine smile,” said the nomination. “You can tell her assistants enjoy working with her, and her positive attitude rubs off on them.”
As for what she enjoys most about her job, Van Lith said it is the relationships.
“I love my interactions with the students,” she said. “I am able to see the majority of them at least once a day. I enjoy celebrating their victories: learning their lunch pin numbers, making a new friend, celebrating special events in their lives. They have so much pride in their accomplishments. I have also had the pleasure of working with many talented and dedicated people.
“It is very humbling to be selected for the ESSA honor. There are so many other deserving staff. It is amazing what can be accomplished when we all work together. I’m forever grateful.”
Melissa Wycoff
As the principal’s secretary, Wykoff is a heart-and-soul member of the MESI family.
“Melissa sets a positive tone for students, staff members, and parents as the primary face in the office greeting everyone who enters our school,” Principal Tony Steffes wrote in a nomination for Wycoff’s award.
After spending 14 years as a daycare provider, Wykoff joined the district 20 years ago as a substitute educational support professional. Over time she shifted to a full-time ESP role, then to the school office, and finally to the principal’s secretary role.
“The most enjoyable part about my job is the MESI Morning Hug Train that starts out our office work day, which is very rewarding,” Wykoff said, referring to the procession of students off the buses and through the office, where they are greeted like family. “I enjoy working with kids and seeing their progress throughout their years at MESI. Knowing that I can still build strong relationships with them makes my heart happy, and I cannot wait to see what the next day brings.”
Of course her role also requires a variety of technical skills, from troubleshooting problems with office equipment to keeping inventories, paying orders, compiling reports, and other essential duties. In all circumstances, Steffes said Wycoff serves school staff members and families with personal warmth and a pride in the learning experience provided at MESI.
“Her dedication to her job and to the MESI community is unmatched,” Steffes said. “She goes above and beyond what is expected of her on a consistent basis. She truly cares about our great school.”
Wykoff said the honor is much appreciated.
“I love my job and coming to work every day!” she said.
