Anne Andreozzi, Rosie Boatman, Katherine Zdunich, Amy Drost, Sarah Blois, and Lorena Rojas are the Elko County School District’s April and May STARS (Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students) award recipients. These outstanding staff members represent the heart of the district’s schools through their dedication, compassion, and daily impact on students’ lives.
Anne Andreozzi, school nurse, Grammar No. 2 Elementary School
Andreozzi, the school nurse at Grammar No. 2 Elementary School, was nominated by someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
“Nurse Annie is a dedicated, skilled, and vital member of our school staff. She goes above and beyond her job duties to provide support for our students and families,” read the nomination. “From multiple office visits a day, to consulting with teachers, writing 504s, and making students feel loved and cared about daily; she has the ability to make all students and staff feel cared for and valued at our school.”
Rosie Boatman, school secretary, Sage Elementary School
Boatman, a school secretary at Sage Elementary School, was nominated by several Sage Elementary staff members.
“Miss Rosie”, as everyone calls her, is an invaluable asset to Sage Elementary,” said Katie Hammer. She consistently demonstrates dedication, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to our school community.”
Colleagues Melanie Meyers, Jennifer Bixler, Catherine Gevock, and Felicia McClard wrote:
“Her warmth and positivity are contagious, bringing light and joy to the workplace. She has a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued, creating an inclusive and uplifting environment.”
“The kids adore her, and she serves as a true cheerleader for both students and colleagues. Rosie’s dedication, generosity, and genuine care for those around her make her an invaluable member of our team and a deserving recipient of this recognition,” the nomination continued.
Katherine Zdunich, special education teacher, Elko High School
Zdunich, a special education teacher at Elko High School, was nominated by a student who asked to remain anonymous.
“I would like to nominate Mrs. Z for the STARS award because she has made a big difference in my life. She always helps me calm down when I am feeling anxious and makes me feel safe in her classroom when I am overwhelmed. Her classroom is like a safe haven where I can take a deep breath and feel supported,” read the nomination.
“She also helps me with my homework and makes sure I understand it, which means a lot to me. More than anything, she is an amazing advocate for students, always making sure we have what we need to succeed. She truly cares about us, and I believe she deserves to be recognized for everything she does.”
Amy Drost, art teacher, Elko High School
Drost, an art teacher at Elko High School, was nominated by students Megan Nicholls, Alayna Berry, Caitlyn Nielson, Peili Goicoechea, and Anessa Flores, along with four anonymous individuals.
Students described Drost as a supportive and encouraging educator who consistently checks in on students, offers constructive feedback and fosters a welcoming, positive environment. Many credited her with reigniting their passion for art and inspiring personal growth beyond the classroom. Students emphasized her approachability, patience and ability to make everyone feel valued. One student noted that Drost’s support has made a lasting impact since elementary school, while another called her “a phenomenal teacher in many aspects.”
Sarah Blois, sixth-grade teacher, Flag View Intermediate School
Blois, a Flag View Intermediate School sixth-grade teacher, was nominated by colleagues Sherri Marsh and Susan Carpenter and students Joey Brown, Olivia Oliver, Daxin Haskin, Olivia Rodriguez, and Vanessa Naranjo.
“It is said that students don't care about how much they know until they know how much they are cared for,” said Marsh. “Sarah cares deeply about each and every student and they feel her loving kindness every day.”
“Miss Blois possesses a remarkable ability to inspire a love of learning in all of her students,” said Carpenter.” Through engaging, hands-on teaching strategies, she creates an interactive and dynamic classroom environment that fosters curiosity and growth.”
Students praised Sarah Blois for her kindness, enthusiasm and dedication in their nominations for Teacher of the Year. They described her as a patient and supportive educator who creates a safe and welcoming classroom environment. Blois was commended for her ability to make learning engaging and fun, especially in English and social studies. Students noted her positive attitude, humor and daily affirmations as highlights of their day, and several said she helped ease their nerves about school. One student remarked that even if Blois does not win the award officially, “she has won the award in my book.”
Lorena Rojas, special education paraprofessional, West Wendover Middle School
Rojas, a special education paraprofessional at West Wendover Middle School, was nominated by two staff members who wished to remain anonymous.
“Lorena goes out of her way to foster a positive and supportive school environment. She has taken the initiative to celebrate staff birthdays and actively contributes to supporting staff’s mental health,” read a nomination. “Whenever a colleague needs assistance, Lorena is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand with enthusiasm and care.”
“She knows all of her students' situations and is incredibly patient as she pushes in from class to class. She rarely gets to take a break and almost always is one of the last employees out of the building every day,” another nomination read.
This recognition is made possible through the generosity of sponsors LeeAnne’s Floral Designs, Maverick Gaming, The Star, Fratelli Pizza, and the Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.
Staff, students and members of the public are encouraged to nominate any school district employee who demonstrates exceptional commitment and performance in serving students. The nomination form is available on the STARS webpage on the Elko County School District website.