District 49 honored individuals who help make the D49 community a great place to learn, work and lead during the Fantastic 49 presentation on Jan. 12.

PTA board members from Meridian Ranch Elementary were thanked for their incredible support of the school. “They go above and beyond to take care of our students, families and staff,” Sheehan Freeman-Todd, principal, said. “They have sponsored back-to-school supply kits, held a back-to-school carnival that probably had more than 1500 people in attendance … have also supported three book fairs this year … and over winter break did a complete refresh of our teacher’s lounge.” Board Members Kari Carlson and John McLaughlin were on hand to accept the award.

Next in the line-up were family engagement liaisons—Trinity Wedde from Odyssey Elementary, Sadie Russell from Remington Elementary, Stephanie Ramirez from Falcon Elementary and Anita Adams from Evans Elementary. Karen Parks, Title 1 family engagement teacher on special assignment, nominated the team. “All of these individuals serve our D49 families, and they do this through intentional, personal outreach,” Parks shared. “They work with our community to provide clothing, gas cards, groceries … there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, and these ladies are responsible.”

Allyson Love, P.E. teacher at Sand Creek High, was recognized for organizing a Yoga Glow for the entire community. “When I walked in that evening, the gym was full … many students up front were modeling poses in different ways. It was an opportunity for them to shine … I couldn’t have been more proud of Allyson,” said Amy Sanchez-Martinez, campus director at SCHS. “Allyson, thank you for going above and beyond, the love you pour in, for modeling for everyone … I am so happy to work with you.”

Another staff member from Sand Creek, Registrar Paula Fox, was honored for giving extensive time to train a new registrar at Vista Ridge High School. Fox was nominated by leaders at both schools. “When I look at our Big Rocks and Cultural Compass, I can’t help but think of Paula … we reached out to Paula, and she jumped at the chance to help us … what a gift Paula is,” Becki Sims, interim principal at Vista Ridge shared. “Paula is the kind of person so many of us strive to be … I always see her reach out her hand to help others,” added Sanchez-Martinez.

To close out the festivities, Nikkole Weir, cheer coach at Vista Ridge High School and Sand Creek High School, received accolades, along with her recently named State Champion Spirit Team from VRHS. “Nikkole has been a rock for us this year … she is not only a coach, but also a mentor. She has done such a great job with not only helping kids be successful on competition mats, but also in school,” Jared Welch, athletic director at SCHS said. “Nikkole and her cheerleaders continue to contribute to the positive culture at Vista Ridge,” added Eddy McGee, athletic director.

“These kids, the staff, they are fantastic … they are what make District 49 work … they shine, and they go above and beyond.” said John Graham, board of education president.

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

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