Classified Employee of the year
Nicole Potter , the library media technician at Powers-Ginsburg Elementary School for 11 years , is always looking for ways to improve the library and make it a welcoming space for all students during their library time or a place they can go to decompress or just chat with her . She encourages the love of reading and student literacy through student book reviews and student book pick videos . This gives students the freedom to pick the books they like and talk about why they chose them .
Her dedication to Powers-Ginsburg extends far beyond the library . She is a valuable staff member , serving on the school ’ s climate and culture team to help create a positive school environment for students , staff , and families . She is a member of the Sunshine Committee , ensuring that staff members ’ important life events are recognized . She volunteers in the morning and afternoon to help with crosswalk safety , coordinates school fundraising , and volunteers with schoolwide family engagement activities .
When Potter isn ’ t working , she likes to spend time with her family , friends , and pets , and she enjoys traveling and reading .
Nicole potter
Library Media Technician at Powers-Ginsburg Elementary School
From teacher on special assignment Kimberly Deslauriers : “ She has become a mentor to other librarians in the district , hosting meetings where ideas are shared on how to run an efficient library that fosters a love of reading in our students .”
In her own words : “ I have the best job in the world .”
elementary Educator of the Year
Terrie Spalding is a gifted teacher at Olmos Elementary School who supports students who receive special education services . She is adept at presenting grade-level standards so that students understand them and are motivated to learn . She partners with students ’ regular education teachers with great results , including a 22 % growth on state tests for students in fourth through sixth grades last year . She also collaborated with teachers on an intervention system for students in kindergarten through second grade . Spalding trained Teaching Fellows and teachers in the Orton-Gillingham approach for students who struggle with literacy , and Olmos is seeing great results . She has high expectations for her students , which has transformed many of them into leaders and role models for their peers . Students and her colleagues at Olmos love working with her !
In addition to her work with students , Spalding helps in all sorts of ways at Olmos , from the Grandparents Day Breakfast to rallies to morning supervision . She volunteered to be Olmos ’ new science adoption representative and then trained teachers and staff in the new curriculum . She also worked with the fire department to get new bike helmets donated to students . She has been a Resource Specialist Program teacher at Olmos since 2019 .
Terrie Spalding
Resource Specialist Program Teacher at Olmos Elementary School
From Olmos Principal Sherry Tharpe : “ Her students know there is no limit on what they can achieve when they try . They also learn how to ask for help or support .”
In her own words : “ The thing that brings me joy is seeing my kids successful .”
middle School Educator of the Year
Although as a teacher on special assignment Michael Robinson does not have his own classes , all the students at Terronez know him . His engaging personality , willingness to help and his skills as a teacher have made him a favorite around his campus . Robinson began as a teacher in Fresno Unified 11 years ago but has been a coach leading literacy instruction at Terronez Middle School for 2½ years . His role is to help teachers infuse literacy skills in all subjects , which includes planning professional learning for the entire staff and a literacy team . As a coach , he provides feedback , demonstrates lessons , and co-teaches . He also works with specific students and provides support for schools throughout the Sunnyside High School region . Robinson is also leading an ethnic studies pilot at Terronez .
Robinson and his four sisters were raised by a single mother . He understands the severe poverty that many students struggle with . Growing up , he felt a responsibility to contribute to the family and expenses .
When not working , Robinson enjoys playing basketball , golf , disc golf , Texas Hold ' em , and games during family game night .
Michael Robinson
Teacher on Special Assignment at Terronez Middle School
From Terronez Principal Gilbert Villareal : “ This campus is a brighter place because he is here .”
In his own words : “ I always say education saved me , and I want to save future generations .”
6 FACES