WBCSD trio honored with Apple Awards

PRIEST RIVER — Three West Bonner County School District employees were honored with Apple Awards at the district's Feb. 19 meeting.

Honored were Marsha Cork, Sonja Sheck and Daisy Sjostrom for their contributions to West Bonner students, staff and community. The awards were created to honor those in the community who contribute to student growth and education.

Cork, a Title 1 paraprofessional with the school district, works with WBCSD teachers by providing instructional support. In a nomination letter, Spacek said the long-time paraprofessional plays an integral and important role in helping both teachers and staff. 

"She exceeds expectations in her role by meeting with students working on their reading skills every day," Spacek wrote in his superintendent's report presented to the board. "Marsha continually evaluates student progress, adjusting groups accordingly, and consults with classroom teachers."

Sheck, who started with the district in 1990 at Idaho Hill, started in the school's kitchen before beginning work as an aide, then as a Title 1 para-professional and playground director.

By focusing on individual or small group needs, paraprofessionals such as Sheck are able to reinforce lessons or support the learning environment under a teacher's direction. 

"Sonja is extremely conscientious, wanting to make sure she is doing her job well and showing a strong commitment to her work," Spacek wrote in the report.

A third grade teacher at Idaho Hill, Sjostrom is reflective, consistently observing, evaluating, and adjusting moment by moment to meet her students' need, Spacek wrote. 

"She worked hard at establishing a positive and productive learning environment by setting clear expectations and utilizing effective strategies to address disruptive behavior," he added. "Daisy has done a remarkable job of building a rapport with students, fostering a sense of trust and respect, and does her best to provide constructive feedback to help her students grow.

Spacek encouraged district staff and the community to submit nomination for future Apple Award winners by contacting him at 208-448-4439, ext. 2.