Jeff Revier, Rebecca Schaffner, and Jason Payne are Elko County School District’s October STARS — or Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students — award recipients.
These inspiring staff members have demonstrated remarkable dedication to student success, compassion in their daily work, and a commitment to strengthening school communities.
October 2025 STARS Recipients
Jeff Revier
Revier, the principal at Northside Elementary School, was nominated anonymously.
The nomination stated that Revier leads by example and builds relationships with staff and students.
“In the two years he has been at Northside, he is on the playground almost every single morning and afternoon, interacting with the students,” the nomination read. “He knows them by name and puts a smile on their faces.”
“The teachers and staff all seem to feel comfortable speaking with him, and he takes individual time for each of them as they interact with him,” it continued.
Rebecca Schaffner
Nominated by colleagues Kayla Buckmaster, Kim Monnett, and an anonymous nominator, Schaffner is recognized for her kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication to her students.
“Every morning, she greets her students with a smile, plus a hug, handshake, or high-five. She goes beyond just teaching; she creates connections,” Buckmaster said. “Her classroom community is more like a family. Every student knows they are loved and safe in her classroom.”
“She’s gone out of her way to make sure I feel supported and included, and that’s made a big difference in how confident and comfortable I feel in my role,” Monnett said. “Becky’s the kind of teammate who makes you feel like you’re never alone, and I’m really lucky to work with her.”
Jason Payne
Payne, an English teacher at Elko High School, was nominated by Alexandra Jacobo and anonymously.
“Jason is one of the most attentive educators I have had the pleasure to meet and work with,” Jacobo wrote. “He is always there for his students, whether it’s to offer support with classwork or to share some friendly banter.”
She said Payne’s support extended beyond the classroom.
“He also continues to be very supportive by reaching out to me and being the most amazing mentor teacher,” she continued. “Having Jason as my mentor during student teaching is what led me to have a greater passion for learning and teaching.”
This recognition is made possible through the generosity of sponsors LeeAnne’s Floral Designs, Maverick Gaming, Sugar y Spice, The Star, Fratelli Pizza, and the Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.
Staff, students, and community members 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.