Congratulations to Ukiah School Lead Teacher Norma Barber and Library Tech/Cafeteria Tech Kari Keen.
During the challenges of the past year with the Covid-19 pandemic, unexpected and expected staffing changes, and a school year that has been anything but normal, Kari and Norma have gone above and beyond.
Kari took it upon herself to take over the summer and school year custodial responsibilities. During the Covid-19 school closure in the fall, she maintained that workload while also creating high quality boxed breakfast and lunches for the students in our community. As the school year started, Kari maintained both roles while still providing excellent meals for students and staff, a clean and safe building, and a positive attitude and friendly smile. Kari is now focusing her efforts to transform our city and school library while continuing to provide homestyle meals daily. Her positive attitude and high energy are infectious and she is a valued team member.
Norma has been a cornerstone of the Ukiah teaching staff for decades. The Covid-19 pandemic greatly increased her responsibilities and she navigated the frequent changes, reports, and student needs with dedication and compassion. As the school year started, Norma took on the responsibility of monitoring and assisting in the two classrooms with remote teachers, as well as maintaining her own full teaching load and completing the responsibilities of Lead Teacher. Her dedication to the students, staff and community of Ukiah is well respected and appreciated.
Each year, the InterMountain ESD hosts the annual Crystal Apple "Excellence in Education" Awards.
The purpose of these awards is to recognize outstanding individuals in the education field who are dedicated to the success of our students. Exceptional principals, assistant principals, teachers, classroom assistants, office and school staff in our communities deserve recognition and praise for their hard work in schools each and every day. The Crystal Apple Awards are a way to show appreciation to these individuals.
The award ceremony will be held in Pendleton privately to meet Covid-19 guidelines on May 11th. The ceremony will be broadcast live for viewing by family, friends, and staff and the link will be posted to the Ukiah School Website and Facebook feed for all interested.