44 Extraordinary Individuals, One GPS Family: Honoring the Best of the Best

On Thursday, April 2, 2026, Gilbert Public Schools staff gathered at the DoubleTree Resort to celebrate the annual Employee of the Year event. This year, the district proudly recognized 44 extraordinary individuals who represent the very best of GPS across every school and department.

While these honorees were selected for their exceptional individual contributions, they serve as a reflection of our entire staff’s collective commitment to excellence that every student receives when they join the GPS Family. Every day, our staff focuses on supporting student success, fostering positive campus cultures, driving educational excellence, and leading with the utmost dedication.

Superintendent Dr. Shane McCord noted that these employees “remind us that excellence is not defined by a single moment, but by a mindset. In times of change, you remain steady. In the face of challenges, you find solutions. And through collaboration, you build strength in those around you.”

Supporting Students, Staff, and Families

At GPS, we believe every child deserves a variety of academic options for a personalized learning journey that sets them up for success. Our employees focus on supporting student success by establishing clear foundations for growth. Staff members like Grace Erickson from Administrative Services help make this happen by developing resources and empathizing with families to set students up for long-term success.

That same dedication is found in the classroom. At Ashland Ranch, James James, a retired Navy Veteran, brings joy to his students by anticipating their unique needs with a positive, supportive attitude. Similarly, Justine Samuel at Augusta Ranch maintains a compassionate presence that makes a meaningful difference in the daily lives of her students. Dawn Craig at Desert Ridge High also advocates for her students’ needs and serves as a mentor to her peers. Meanwhile, at Val Vista Lakes, Julie Willford uses her heart and expertise to help students master essential life skills like emotional regulation. 

Sheila Feeney at Boulder Creek Elementary has become known as “rock” for the school, building rapport with students and volunteering for extra duties even through difficult times. At Highland Park, Kristin Nichols also supports learners with more specialized needs through individualized systems and interventions. Greenfield Elementary’s school nurse, Suzanne Jarrett, goes above and beyond with her care by providing helpful information, treats, singing songs, and genuine joy. Jennifer Schultz at Neely Traditional Academy exemplifies excellence in teaching and leadership with a commitment to ensuring every student receives the support they need.

Andria Lind works tirelessly to ensure all students feel supported, confident, and successful at Oak Tree Elementary. Shannon M. Carter at Mesquite Jr. leads with curiosity and engages students with strategies in mathematics. Aimee Rios at Pioneer Elementary helps students and parents navigate challenges, and Dawn Peterson at Playa del Rey Elementary makes every student feel seen, valued, and special. 

Caring on Campuses

Our staff cares deeply about their campuses, working every day to ensure GPS schools are welcoming, safe, and supportive. Dave Lee at Campo Verde High quietly contributes to a campus culture built on pride and a genuine commitment to others. At Canyon Rim, Charlie Collier - who has become known as "Mr. Rogers" - is celebrated for the gentle spirit and care he brings to students every day.

Allison Swain-Nutter has become the heartbeat of Canyon Valley by making the school feel warm and inviting for all families, and Judith Tatarzycki at Desert Ridge Jr. greets every student with a smile that sets a positive tone every single day. Meanwhile, Katrina Arellano of Highland High serves as the school’s go-to person who ensures the campus runs smoothly and allows students to focus on what matters most - learning.

At Carol Rae Ranch Elementary, Jolyn Webster makes a lasting impact on families with selflessness, dedication, and even purchasing gift cards for families. Media technician Stephanie Lingenfelter at Gilbert High champions the culture on campus by facilitating classes, clubs, and activities.  

Kindergarten teacher Tiffany Randall at Harris Elementary fosters a safe and respectful environment where every child feels comfortable. Highland Jr.’s Sonia Saenz lifts the entire department with her positive influence and invests extra time to help struggling students make progress. Paraprofessional specialist Shari Sprague at Meridian Elementary has been a trusted advisor to her team since the 2006-07 school year, and resource teacher Rose Powers at Mesquite Elementary works every day to establish genuine relationships with each and every student.

Educational Excellence and Innovation

GPS encourages educational innovation, which is often led by educators who transform curriculum into exciting new opportunities. Jenny Nichols at Gilbert Elementary, a National Board Certified educator, is strengthening music education at the state and local levels, providing students with world-class arts instruction.

At GPS Global Academy, Erica Buday has developed college math courses, expanding academic opportunities and giving seniors a head start on their futures. Melani Calloway of Greenfield Jr. contributes to growth by helping fellow educators sharpen their skills, while Mariah Laszlo at Patterson Elementary uses data-driven collaboration to help struggling readers find their confidence. In Technology Services, Alexis Mason empowers her educators and students to teach and learn complex science lessons, ensuring GPS students have access to the technology and ideas they need to thrive in a modern world.

Further driving educational excellence are Katie Hoerger at Burk Elementary, whose creativity transforms curriculum into engaging lessons, and Karen Bandura at Islands Elementary, who brings enthusiasm to the classroom and actively supports clubs and camps. Media tech Sheela Bhatia at Gilbert Classical Academy supports Cybrary activities and volunteers at local elementary schools to help read. At Sonoma Ranch, instructional coach Michelle Amalong designs purposeful professional development through open-door days and edu-chats. 

Librarians Carrie Henderson at Finley Farms and Cathy Luman at Settler’s Point devote their work to putting books in children's hands and inspiring a lifelong love of reading. This innovative spirit is also modeled by office manager Julie Zoellner at Mesquite High, who manages finances and keeps operations running efficiently throughout campus. Lauren Castleton at Spectrum, who launched a vital free after-school tutoring program, and physical education teacher Nicole Rotner at Superstition Springs, who builds strong relationships across the community, make a lasting impact on their students’ education experience.

Dedicated Leaders

GPS thrives because of dedicated leaders who lead by example and take ownership of their work. Plumbing shop foreman Scott Schimoller in GPS Business Services brings nearly 40 years of experience and serves as a valued mentor within operations. In the Community Education Office, licensing and personnel specialist Rose Gonzales leads interviews, training, onboarding, and payroll for staff. At Quartz Hill, teacher Michelle Morris serves as a role model and motivates others to strive for excellence.

Jordan Hall in GPS Teaching & Learning stands as a leader in AP and gifted education design. Administrative assistant Lesli Napier at South Valley Jr High keeps school details and operations running smoothly with ease, and cafeteria manager Ginny Martin at Towne Meadows Elementary, who knows students by name and patiently ensures they have the nutrition to keep learning.

Behind every successful student is a team of dedicated professionals like our 2026 Employees of the Year. We invite you to discover the schools, programs, and people that make Gilbert Public Schools the right choice for your family's learning adventure by scheduling a tour at GilbertSchools.net/Tour.