Teachers named ‘Hornet Heroes’

At the beginning of her term as PTA President for Kirtland Local Schools, Allison Wuliger wanted to find a way to recognize the wonderful teachers and staff members in the district.

It was then she came up with the idea for the “Hornet Heroes” program, which puts out a call into the Kirtland Local Schools’ community for people to nominate a teacher or staff member who goes above and beyond for the students.

Since the first Hornet Hero Awards were given in October 2019, there have been 21 people recognized through the program.

The PTA asks for nominations every month and after reviewing them, chooses the winners. The award recipient is then invited to the monthly PTA meeting to be recognized and listen to a reading of their nomination. Each winner also receives a certificate and small token of appreciation.

In January, the two selected winners were Guidance Counselor at Kirtland Elementary School Linn Bowen, and third-grade teacher Janine Greer.

The nomination for Bowen read, “Mrs. Bowen makes herself available no matter what, and just shows up for people!” This particular family was going through a lot of personal losses and stress and was thankful that Mrs. Bowen took extra time to check in with them and make sure they were all OK.

Greer is one of two teachers at KES who has a blended learning classroom, meaning half her students are taking classes in-person while the other half are learning virtually through Zoom. This results in a challenging environment for students and the teachers alike. Greer’s nomination read, “But what is exceptional is her contagious positive attitude on the whole situation. I believe that one of the most important things that these third-graders will take from Mrs. Greer in 2020 is her grace and patience under adversity.”

The Hornet Heroes Award has been given to a broad spectrum of people who make up the Kirtland Local School District including teachers, administrative staff, custodial workers and bus drivers.

“Our teachers and staff members truly are outstanding and help make the Kirtland Schools a special place,” said Wuliger.