The 4th grade team at Lightfoot Elementary wants to give a HUGE High 5 to their fearless leader, Katie Contois! As Grade Level Chair, Katie consistently goes above and beyond in her role—not only advocating for her team but also being a true friend and collaborator. Whether navigating schoolwide changes or day-to-day challenges, she approaches each situation with clarity, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility to her team.
What sets Katie apart is her genuine care for others. She’s the first to check in when someone needs support and never hesitates to lift others up with encouragement and kindness. Her compassion builds a connection that strengthens our team beyond the professional level.
Katie’s leadership at Lightfoot Elementary is a powerful example of what it means to lead with heart, humor, and purpose. We are so fortunate to have her guiding and standing with us.
Mrs. Henry would like to give a heartfelt shoutout to her incredible aides — Mrs. Stewart, Mrs. Emily, Mrs. Rachita, and Mrs. Sylvia. Their tireless dedication and unwavering support for every kindergarten student this year have made a lasting impact. Their patience, teamwork, and willingness to go above and beyond — whether by taking on extra tasks, meeting the needs of a diverse group of learners, or simply bringing joy to the classroom with their constant smiles — truly made all the difference. Mrs. Henry is deeply grateful for everything they’ve done. Their encouragement and support were not only invaluable to the students but also to her personally. They’ve been an essential part of the K–1 family, and she couldn’t have done it without them.
Ms. Carney would like to give a big high five to Samantha Fontana for being a supportive GLC for 6th grade and an awesome SST coordinator! Your dedication and teamwork make a big difference—thank you for all you do!
Mrs. Moretti and Mr. Ramirez want to give a huge thank you to Ms. Josie, their wonderful classroom aide. Ms. Josie is kind, hardworking, and brings so much laughter to our day. She goes above and beyond to assist everyone in TK. We are so grateful for her!
Ms. Griffin and Ms. Stewart would like to give a big shout-out to Mrs. Rands and Mrs. Winters for being amazing classroom aides this year! Their consistent support and dependable presence have made a huge difference. Both teachers agree—they can always count on them, and their help has been invaluable to both the students and the classroom. Thank you for all that you do!
DCIS admin proudly recognizes and celebrates their incredible Campus Support Team! Their unwavering dedication and behind-the-scenes efforts play a vital role in keeping the campus running smoothly.
Mrs. Gaitan would like to give a special shout-out to her aide, Jenna Shaurrette. In her first year supporting the classroom, Jenna has already made a meaningful impact. Her loving and caring approach to helping students each day has been a true gift. Mrs. Gaitan shares, “We are so blessed to have you—you're the best TA!”
Mrs. Henry is so grateful to Mrs. Sahagun, Mrs. DiTrapani, Mrs. Dryden, Mrs. Galkin, Mr. Gionet, Mrs. Ortiz, and Mrs. Hernandez for showing up each week to support centers and classroom activities. The students looked forward to seeing you, and your dedication made a big difference. Mrs. Henry couldn’t have done it without you! Here’s to a fantastic year — thanks for being part of it!
Mrs. Sandusky shares her heartfelt appreciation for Mrs. Dina and the incredible support she brings to the kindergarten classroom each day. With her endless patience, creative problem-solving, and intuitive sense of what’s needed, Mrs. Dina has become an invaluable part of the learning environment. She takes initiative without hesitation and is always willing to do whatever is needed—whether providing instructional support or offering emotional encouragement. Her dedication helps create a space where students feel seen, supported, and inspired. Thank you, Mrs. Dina, for your tireless work and the heart you bring to everything you do!
Ms. Hearn, from Carleton P. Lightfoot Elementary School, shares her deep gratitude for Mrs. Marie, her classroom support aide this year. Mrs. Marie’s dedication to her craft and genuine love for what she does has been nothing short of extraordinary. Ms. Hearn says, “I could not have done this year without her! Marie, you are so very loved!"
Shoutout to Valerey Leyva — the best ML (EL) aide ever! Mrs. Abbruzzese wants everyone to know how invaluable Valerey has been in her classroom this year and last. Thanks to Valerey’s dedication and support, ML students have shown incredible growth and improvement since the beginning of the year. Her extra help has truly made a difference, and both Mrs. Abbruzzese and her students are so grateful for her!
Mrs. Cook shares her heartfelt appreciation for Nadine Salais, who has been an incredible asset to her TK classroom! Nadine quickly learned to read Mrs. Cook’s cues, creating a seamless partnership in working with the Littles. Thanks to “Ms. Nadine,” students always knew what to expect, as she used the same language and guidance to help them understand expectations clearly. She confidently led small groups and helped each child feel successful and supported. Mrs. Cook says, “I couldn’t have done it without her compassionate and thoughtful work. I truly hope she comes back to TK with me next year!”
Exciting news, Etiwanda! Thanks to Prop 28, we're growing our visual & performing arts programs during the school day! Our VAPA team has selected engaging, state-approved lessons in visual, media, and performing arts — and we’d love to hear what you think! Stop by any school site or the district office to view the lessons from April 28–May 22, 2025. Then share your feedback here: https://forms.gle/TCrnNJFJsgUvVHRP7.
Perdew’s PTA made Teacher Appreciation Week extra special! They went above and beyond to celebrate the staff with breakfast, snacks, sweet treats, and a delicious lunch from Aloha Hawaiian BBQ. It was a fun and meaningful way to show gratitude to the dedicated educators who make a difference every day.
Taylah absolutely loves and adores her Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Adez. With a heart as big as her beautiful smile, Mrs. Adez shines brightly for each and every one of her students. Her warmth, joy, and dedication make every day in Kindergarten something special.
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to Mrs. Rowland from Mason , He has had an incredible 5th grade year, and it’s all thanks to her. She works hard, has a heart of gold, and makes learning fun every single day. He’s especially thankful for the way she helped him discover his favorite football team! Mason’s mom always says the best teachers are the ones we remember forever — and he knows he’ll never forget his last year of elementary school with Mrs. Rowland.
A big "hi-five" to the best fifth grade teacher out there! A huge thank you to Mrs. Rowland from the Arellano family for not only supporting our students but loving them like your own. We truly appreciate everything you do!
The Pierce Family would like to give a heartfelt shoutout to Mrs. Boehm at Carleton P. Lightfoot Elementary School! Her warmth, kindness, and constant encouragement help students grow in confidence and leadership. We are so grateful for the way she inspires her students to bring out the very best in themselves every day!
The Sepe family is giving a shoutout to Mrs. Caruso at Grapeland! They want to thank her for making Nolen’s 1st grade year so special. Starting at a new school can be tough, but your love, care, and encouragement made the transition seamless. Nolen has grown into a confident reader and truly loves coming to school—and that’s all thanks to you. We’re so grateful for the heart you bring into the classroom each day!
The Ramirez family would like to give a big THANK YOU to Mrs. Moffett!
They are so grateful for the way you make 7th grade Math and Science fun, engaging, and exciting for Brianna. Your dedication, love, and support truly make a difference in your students’ lives.
