Lyle Boner, Megan Cook, and Melanie Myers were selected as the Elko County School District’s December Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students (STARS) award recipients.
Boner, a mathematics and theatre teacher at Wells Combined School, was nominated by someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
The nomination explained Boner advises several extracurricular activities, participates in many school committees, and assists as a RISE mentor, generously dedicating his time to assist in his colleagues’ professional growth and development.
“As the leader of the Wells High School Drama Club and Thespian Troupe, he fosters a sense of community by organizing excursions to other schools in the county, providing valuable learning experiences not easily accessible,” read the nomination.
“He actively participates in the PAC (Principal Advisory Committee) and SPAC (Student Principal Advisory Committee), underscoring his dedication to including students and parents in decision-making. His passion for education is also apparent in his commitment to after-school math tutoring, overseeing MAPS testing coordination, and actively contributing to implementing the new math curriculum as a member of the Admin Implementation Council. Additionally, as a licensed school bus driver, Mr. Boner exceeds expectations by transporting various teams and clubs to their respective meets and competitions.”
Cook, a paraprofessional at West Wendover Elementary School, was nominated by parent Ashley Rodriguez.
“Megan has taken her time with my daughter all these years, and tries to teach her new ways to learn every day,” said Rodriguez. “If I could tell her a million times thank you for caring and helping my daughter, it wouldn’t be enough. She has done so much for her and continues to care and help in so many ways. I choose Megan to be recognized today, tomorrow and every day.”
Myers is a fourth-grade teacher at Southside Elementary School. She was nominated by parent Desirae Lara, and a parent who wishes to remain anonymous.
Lara’s nomination explained Myers has taught all three of her children.
“She is always so kind and understanding especially when it comes to concerns academically. My oldest is deaf in his left ear, and she made arrangements to accommodate his needs, making sure he could hear and understand the tasks that needed done,” said Lara.
“My daughter loves school not just because of friends or recess, but because of Mrs. Myers and that to me, as a parent, speaks so much for itself. I will always speak so highly of her and her work ethic because she has imprinted her kindness and teaching on to my three kids.”
An anonymous parent said: “Mrs. Myers has the utmost patience and kindness for all her students. She not only is an excellent teacher, but has compassion and understanding for each and every one of her students. I especially appreciate the environment she creates in class for my son who has autism. He feels less overwhelmed and overstimulated. We love Mrs. Myers.”
Recognition of these deserving employees would not be possible without sponsors: LeeAnne's Floral Designs, Maverick Gaming, The Star, and Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.
The employee recognition program recognizes three employees on a monthly basis beginning in September through May. The individuals selected do not need to be a classroom teacher and could be any employee who provides services at any Elko County School District school or department.