Carol Ganguet, Maria “Paty” Haro and Corrie Abbott are Elko County School District’s October STARS, or Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students, award recipients.
These staff members have demonstrated exceptional dedication to students, a willingness to go above and beyond in their roles and a commitment to strengthening their school communities.
Carol Ganguet
Ganguet, an administrative assistant in Special Services at the district's central office, was nominated anonymously and by ECSD employees Heather Howes and Naomi Driggs.
Her nominations highlighted more than 30 years of service to the district, beginning at Spring Creek Elementary School, where she supported students, families and staff in a variety of roles.
“Carol has a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, welcomed, and valued,” one nomination read. “Her relationships with students and families have made a lasting impression.”
Now serving in Special Services, Ganguet supports special education programs and helps staff and families navigate important processes. Her colleagues praised her knowledge, attention to detail and willingness to help others.
“Carol is an indispensable resource to the Special Services department and ECSD families alike,” Howes and Driggs wrote.
Her nominations also recognized the lasting relationships she has built throughout her career. “She has not only contributed through the work she does, but through the relationships she has built and the people she has helped along the way,” the anonymous nomination stated.
Maria “Paty” Haro
Haro, a paraprofessional at West Wendover Middle School, was nominated by parent Ashley Rodriguez.
Rodriguez recognized Haro for the patience, care and encouragement she has shown her daughter over the past two years.
“These past 2 years Paty has made a change in my child's life from learning how to read simple words to getting her to know her schedule for her classes,” Rodriguez wrote.
Haro's support has helped her daughter develop important skills and become more independent at school.
“Paty has made my daughter more independent more than ever!” Rodriguez wrote.
Rodriguez expressed gratitude for Haro's dedication and the difference she has made in her daughter's life. “It never goes unnoticed. We are forever grateful for caring teachers like Paty who make a difference.”
Corrie Abbott
Abbott, building superintendent at Wells Combined School, was nominated by ECSD employee Carla Boner.
Boner recognized Abbott for his dedication to the school and his willingness to share his knowledge with students. In addition to his school responsibilities, Abbott serves the community as a volunteer firefighter, EMT and substitute bus driver.
Over the past year, Abbott has worked closely with students in the school's Building Trades career and technical education program, helping them complete projects and develop practical skills.
“Rather than simply assigning students jobs, he works alongside them, teaching them how to safely use tools, explaining procedures, and guiding them as they learn to solve problems for themselves,” Boner wrote.
These experiences have helped students build confidence and take pride in improving their own school.
“Corrie brings a unique combination of practical knowledge, humor, hard work, and willingness to help wherever he is needed,” Boner wrote.
His nomination also highlighted the positive relationships he has built with students and his continued commitment to the Wells community.
This recognition is made possible through the generosity of LeeAnne’s Floral Designs, Equinox Gold, Dos Amigos, Glennon & Sandoval Co.,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.