Honoring Dedication: A Night Celebrating Students & Staff

District 49 hosted March’s Fantastic 49 celebration on March 13 before the monthly Board of Education meeting. The meeting was hosted by Sand Creek High School, as part of a series of showcase meetings that have been held different schools across the district.

The first honoree of the evening was Melissa Solis, Vista Ridge High School student and Skyview Middle School CLDE Intern. Melissa’s ability to build relationships with younger students, paired with her personal drive to see them succeed, had significant impact on SMS classroom culture and academic outcomes. 

“Being bilingual in spanish has been beneficial because I understand what students have been through when learning a new language. I am able to connect with them in a deeper way,” said Melissa. “I’m thankful for Skyiew and Vista Ridge for giving me the opportunity to do this internship.”

You can read more about Melissa in the spring edition of Discover 49 Magazine, coming out in April. 

 

 

 

 

Claire Phillips, Senior Staffing Specialist, was the next honoree. Claire went above and beyond to create ADA compliant staff calendars. She excels and pushes herself to take on different challenges. 

“I’m thrilled to see her finally get the opportunity to stand in front of the D49 community, and receive recognition as the hard working, compassionate problem solver than I have come to know and rely on,” said Rebeka Whitaker.

 

 

The next honoree was Jay Sharkey, Horizon Middle School Paraprofessional. Jay is always available for students and staff. He stays late, arrives early, and can often be found spending extra time with students to ensure they are taken care of at all times.

"I was fortunate enough to be able to work with Jay for several years, and see the impact he makes on students and the time and dedication he has with students,” said Dustin Horras, Sand Creek Zone Superintendent 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The final honoree was Lance Carroll, Assistant Principal at Sand Creek High School. Lance is an involved leader and community member serving Sand Creek students and families. He has a heart for this community and his dedication is beyond reproach. 

"Lance is the perfect example of what dedication looks like to the school, and to the zone," said Horras

"If you want to talk about a person and a family who lives and breathes excellence and kindness and generosity and integrity, these people are it,” said Amy Sanchez-Martinez, Principal at Sand Creek High School. 

Fantastic 49 is the district’s recognition program that celebrates fantastic staff, students, and community members before the board of education meetings. A sincere thank you to our sponsors, Air Academy Federal Credit Union, Dion’s, and to Texas Roadhouse.