Laney Ulrich, Celeste Bennett and Nicole Moreno are Elko County School District’s February STARS — or Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students — award recipients.
These staff members have demonstrated dedication to students and colleagues, a strong work ethic and a commitment to strengthening their school communities.
Laney Ulrich
Ulrich, a teacher at Carlin Combined School, was nominated anonymously.
Her nomination praised her dedication to students and her leadership among colleagues. “Laney Ulrich possesses the rare ability to see the latent potential in every student, regardless of their starting point,” the nomination read. “She creates an environment where students of all backgrounds feel safe to take risks and motivated to excel.”
Ulrich is also recognized for supporting fellow educators. The nomination described her as someone who shares resources, mentors new teachers and provides stability during challenging times. “She doesn’t just do her job; she elevates the jobs of those around her,” the nominator wrote.
Celeste Bennett
Bennett, who works in Transportation, was nominated by Stormy Barrett.
Barrett said Bennett has been a positive and supportive presence for many years. “Celeste has a big heart. She took me under her wing when I started here nine years ago,” Barrett wrote. “She’s always willing to help whenever and wherever needed.”
Barrett also noted Bennett’s ability to lift the spirits of those around her. “She’s always there to put a smile on your face or make you laugh even when you’re not having a great day,” Barrett wrote.
Nicole Moreno
Moreno, a math and career and technical education teacher and advisor at Elko High School, was nominated anonymously.
Her nomination highlighted the many roles she fills at the school. “She works hard and gives 100 percent to all of her many roles,” the nomination read. “She teaches math, multimedia and advises multiple activities while also serving as a leader on the Leadership Council for school improvement.”
Moreno advises several student organizations and leads initiatives that encourage involvement and responsibility among students. “She invests in students as leaders and encourages them to step up and be involved,” another nominator wrote. “Nicole Moreno truly embodies what the STAR Award stands for.”
This recognition is made possible through the generosity of LeeAnne’s Floral Designs, Orla Mining, Dos Amigos, 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.