Ending The School Year with Honors for Outstanding Students and Staff

District 49 hosted May’s Fantastic 49 celebration on May 8 before the monthly Board of Education meeting.

The first honorees of the evening were Erica O'Harrow & Olivya Dettmers, students at Horizon Middle School. They displayed outstanding leadership and dedication as student contributors to HMS’ social media through the Class Intercom pilot program.

“Their contributions will have a lasting impact at Horizon Middle School, and they will definitely leave behind a legacy that will be hard to fill as they journey on to Sand Creek High School in the fall,” said Liz Dalzell, Horizon Middle School Principal.

The next honoree was Ludwing Aguilar Hernandez, Vista Ridge High School student and Skyview Middle School CLDE Peer Pathway Intern. He has been a steadfast advocate for multilingual learners, and his commitment to ensuring these students received the best educational support is inspiring and impactful.

“I have no doubt he will emerge as a leader in an arena he chooses,” said Taryn Frazier, SMS Choice & Success Advisor. “I’m incredibly proud of Ludwing’s accomplishments and I know that everyone who has the pleasure of working alongside him shares this sentiment.”

The next honoree was Karen Parks, Family, School and Community Engagement TOSA. She has demonstrated outstanding dedication and exceptional service in her role, embodying the crucial link that empowers families to become more deeply involved in their children's education and the school community.

“Karen has a heart of gold and a passion for serving her students, families, and our community,” said Karen Bixler, Coordinator of Title Programs.

Last to be honored was Kim Marshall, Math Teacher at Skyview Middle School. She served as a lead mentor in a challenging year, and has been instrumental in helping develop and support her special education students in unique and thoughtful ways. She is dedicated to the academic growth and achievement of all students at SMS.

“We wouldn’t be where we’re at academically, but also in building relationships with students, without her,” said Alisha Donald, SMS Assistant Principal.