For the Reporter

The Kent School District has announced its 2017-2018 Employees of the Year.

Representing labor unions and employee groups, 11 employees were chosen for their work in serving students and the community with excellence and equity.

“This is the second year human resources has partnered with employee associations to score nominations for our Employees of the Year,” said Moriah Martin, chief human resources officer. “The overwhelming support for this year’s winners shows the broad impact many staff make at their school buildings and our KSD community at large.”

Employees of the Year

Michael Angelidis

Kentlake math teacher, Teacher of the Year, Kent Education Association (KEA)

Angelidis uses algebra and calculus to teach problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, empowering students to be successful in career, college and life. He gets to know students as individuals so he can create a comfortable environment where students become partners in their education.

Mike Christiansen

Kent-Meridian volleyball coach, track and field coach, and National Board-certified teacher, Kent Association of Coaches and Extra-Curricular Employees (WEA)

In addition to teaching teamwork and discipline through sports, Christiansen is dedicated to keeping his athletes focused in the classroom and continuing their education. His volleyball teams have qualified for the postseason tournament almost every year since his arrival in 2006, and several of his athletes have gone on to compete at the collegiate level.

Joan Johnson

East Hill paraeducator, Kent Association of Paraeducators WEA/NEA (KAP)

Johnson works tirelessly in the welcome room, giving individual attention and detailed information to every student, parent or staff member who walks in her door. She goes above and beyond to help everyone and is always willing to give her time and patience to the East Hill community.

Rochelle “Shelley” Kitts

Central Office Administration support (non-rep)

Kitts is responsible for keeping records of English learners being served by the multilingual program, ensuring the district is in compliance with regulations. She demonstrates excellence in communicating respectfully and clearly with the diverse population she serves as it continues to grow.

Julie Lahde

Finance Department supervisor, Central Office Administrators (non-rep)

Beyond her broad knowledge and experience, Lahde places a priority on creating a happy, healthy and positive work environment for her team. No matter what her schedule or workload looks like, she goes the extra mile to acknowledge every birthday, holiday, and any other reason to celebrate her staff.

Debbie Matthes

Kentwood kitchen manager, Kent School Food Service Association (KSFSA)

Matthes is a driven food service worker who has earned her role as the kitchen manager. Kentwood students and staff agree she is wonderful.

Laura Mroos

Mentor Teacher, Kent Education Association – non-classroom certificated staff (KEA)

As a mentor to 31 first- and second-year teachers, Mroos’ work has positively impacted more than 600 students this school year alone. Her previous experience as a classroom teacher and academic interventionist allows her to provide genuine feedback and effective strategies meeting the needs of each teacher she works with as well as the students those teachers serve.

Charleen Prichard

Mill Creek assistant principal, Kent Principals Association (KPA)

Prichard’s upbeat personality and encouragement inspires the entire Mill Creek community to improve and grow daily. She has a gift for connecting with students who believe no one cares and helps them find their voice.

Konrad Shaw

HVAC technician, American Federation of Teachers Union of Washington (AFT)

As the only boiler technician for the district, Shawn is the “H” in HVAC as he maintains the boilers that heat buildings. From presenting at Kent-Meridian’s Career Day events to sharing best practices with his colleagues, ensuring students and staff are warm, Shaw enjoys imparting his knowledge and inspiring those around him.

Kim Thompson

Bus driver, Teamsters Association

As a special-needs bus driver for Covington, Jenkins Creek, and Kentlake schools, Thompson ensures the most vulnerable students are safe and receive the care they need on their way to and from school each day. Thompson’s kindness, patience, flexibility and positivity are appreciated by students, staff and community members alike.

Marie Wienker

Kentlake office manager, Kent Association of Educational Office Professionals (KAEOP)

As the office manager at Kentlake High School, Wienker is invested in the students at her school. She makes certain she is available to support them with everything from having supplies to ensuring the teachers in the classroom have what they need to support students.