Good Apple Awards

Ms. Parker has been an outstanding educator for eight years, with five years of experience as a general education teacher and the past three years as a special education teacher and IEP manager. Her dedication, patience, and compassion make her a remarkable educator who truly goes above and beyond for her students.

Even though I have only known Ms. Parker for a few months this year, I have already seen what an incredible mentor she is. Over the past three months, she has been so diligent, supportive, and always willing to help. She is the kind of person you can reach out to anytime—day or night—and she will be there to guide, assist, and encourage you. Her dedication and genuine care for others truly stand out.

As an IEP teacher, Ms. Parker consistently demonstrates exceptional skill in balancing the many responsibilities that come with her role—developing individualized education plans, managing extensive paperwork, collaborating with parents and staff, and working closely with students who have behavioral and academic challenges. Despite the demanding workload, she always approaches her students with empathy and a positive attitude, ensuring that each child feels supported and valued.

Her ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations, while still maintaining a caring and structured classroom environment, reflects her strong leadership and deep commitment to student growth. Ms. Parker’s passion for helping students reach their potential—academically, socially, and emotionally—truly embodies what it means to be an exceptional teacher.

Brooks Student Leadership Programs include two dynamic clubs: Better Academics and Social Excellence (BAASE) and Lady Panthers. The BAASE Program, led by Ms. McIntosh and Mr. Barnes, stands out as a flagship group within the District. It focuses on teaching young men essential social skills, helps hold them accountable academically, and encourages community volunteerism. Under the direction of Ms. McIntosh and Mr. Barnes, they host baby wipe drives for young mothers, assist area churches with spring cleaning, and each year, they host Mother and Son Dinner to show appreciation for those who sacrifice so mush for them. Additionally, the sponsors organize college trips, a fun outing each month and provide ongoing tutoring opportunities.

Lady Panthers, guided by Ms. Dedeaux, Ms. Richard, Ms. Edeal, and Ms. Morley, is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for girls. The club’s mission is to foster confidence, build positive relationships, and nurture strong leadership qualities. Through mentoring, team-building activities, and meaningful discussions, members learn to support one another, set and achieve goals, and develop skills for success both in and out of school. Guided by their sponsors, the Lady Panthers have weekly meetings focus on goal setting, tutor students at our neighboring elementary school, Buckner Elementary, and participating in a Circle of Friends group with students in the Structured Learning Program.

All Good Apple recipients go above and beyond their job descriptions, forming lasting relationships with students and equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to be future ready. Their dedication and impact extend far beyond the classroom, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.

She consistently goes above and beyond, showing up each day with a positive attitude despite any challenges that come her way. Her hard work, engaging lessons, and warm classroom culture do not go unnoticed. Thank you, Laura, for all you do for our Cloud students!

Laura is one of those rare gems who embodies everything you could hope for in a Kindergarten teacher. She is kind, calm, and incredibly knowledgeable. Her classroom is a place you walk into and don’t want to leave—filled with mutual respect, joy, and learning. Laura is the ultimate professional in every interaction, whether with students, staff, parents, or community members. She is a quiet yet powerful force who continues to make Cloud a better place every single day.

This team consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, creativity, and care in providing a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for students throughout the summer months. The Summer Latchkey Team goes above and beyond to make each day meaningful for every child. They plan and implement activities that combine learning, teamwork, and fun—ranging from STEM challenges and arts-and-crafts projects to field trips and outdoor exploration. Their enthusiasm and positive energy ensure that students not only stay active and curious but also build friendships and confidence in a supportive setting. What truly sets this team apart is their unwavering commitment to every student’s well-being. They approach each day with patience, flexibility, and compassion, creating a space where all children feel valued, included, and encouraged to be their best selves. Their teamwork and dedication exemplify the spirit of service and excellence that USD 259 celebrates through the Good Apple Award.

Sam Belsan - Social Studies Teacher, 8th Grade Team Leader, Social Media and Website Manager, and Family Engagement Coordinator      

Leslie Pate - Newcomer ELA Teacher and ESOL Team Leader

Leslie Pate and Sam Belsan are our dynamic duo leading the charge on Family Engagement this year, and they have been nothing short of incredible! This fall they brought our community together through two unforgettable events, Coleman Night Out and an epic BINGO Night. What makes their work truly special is the way they create true Coleman Community moments. Their events do not just include our students, families, and staff, they also bring in partners from across Wichita, including representatives from our high schools, Mayor Lily Wu, several Sedgwick County commissioners, and members of our Board of Education. Their hard work and passion shine through in every detail. On top of leading these powerful community events, they are exceptional classroom teachers, deeply loved by their students and highly respected by their colleagues. We are truly lucky to have Ms. Pate and Mr. Belsan at the helm of our Family Engagement Team. Game On, team, your work helps us all Level Up!

As a long-time 1st grade teacher at Gammon Elementary, Jessica embodies the core value of belonging. She genuinely appreciates the diversity within our school community, embracing each individual’s strengths and challenges with care and respect. Jessica doesn’t just accept differences — she celebrates them. Her ability to harmonize those differences creates meaningful connections among students, among staff, and between students and staff. This synergy fosters a culture where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported. Jessica’s thoughtful presence and relationship-building make Gammon Elementary a place where belonging is not just a goal — it’s a lived experience.
 

Heather Deters is deeply committed to student success, safety, and belonging. She fosters strong collaboration with families and is dedicated to equity and diversity in all she does. Heather works with some of our most challenging students and consistently remains calm, composed, and compassionate. She meets people where they are and helps them grow into where they need to be. Heather is always willing to lend a hand, offering thoughtful support and creative solutions. She ensures transportation runs smoothly, supports students beyond her own caseload, and uplifts everyone around her with her positivity and professionalism. Heather truly does it all. She supports both staff and students, keeps things running seamlessly, and somehow always seems to always have her "poop in a group". We are incredibly grateful for Heather and all she does to make Gammon a better place for everyone.

They are the kind of paras who are truly rare—the ones who go above and beyond for every child, every time. They don’t just assist; they empower. They help students grow as leaders, encouraging independence, confidence, and kindness. Whether it’s guiding a small group, supporting individual learners, or stepping in seamlessly wherever help is needed, they do it all with patience, positivity, and care. Our classroom simply wouldn’t be the same without them. Their teamwork, consistency, and love for our students create a space where every child can succeed and shine. Thank you, Mrs. Rachel and Mr. Sam, for being the kind of educators who make a lasting difference. You’re both one of a kind—and we’re so lucky to have you!

Alejandra embodies the Wichita Public Schools’ shared beliefs through her daily interactions with students and staff. She creates a classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and inspired to express themselves creatively. Her kindness and positive attitude make her a favorite among students, who love greeting her in the hallways and sharing their artistic achievements. Alejandra’s creativity shines in every lesson, and her students’ artwork reflects her dedication to excellence and innovation. She is a true team player with strong camaraderie among colleagues, always willing to collaborate, share ideas, and lend a helping hand. Her strong work ethic and consistent positivity contribute greatly to a welcoming and uplifting school environment. Alejandra’s impact reaches far beyond her art classroom—she fosters student success, belonging, and creativity, aligning beautifully with the district’s shared beliefs and vision. She is truly a Good Apple who helps our students and staff thrive.
 

In her first year at Hyde Elementary, Nurse Melissa Reichmann has made an extraordinary impact on our school community. Her compassion, professionalism, and dedication to student and staff well-being have elevated the standard of care and created a culture of trust and empathy.

Melissa’s role goes far beyond traditional nursing duties. She is often the first-person students turn to when they’re feeling unwell—physically or emotionally. Her calm demeanor and expert triage skills ensure that every child receives appropriate care, whether it’s a minor injury, a sudden illness, or a moment of emotional distress. Her nurturing presence helps students feel safe, heard, and supported.

She has built strong connections with students, offering not just medical care but emotional reassurance. Many children see her as a trusted adult who listens, validates their feelings, and empowers them to take charge of their health. Her gentle approach has made a lasting impression on countless young lives.

Melissa is also a vital support for staff. Her office is a safe space where teachers and support staff can seek help and guidance. She shares wellness tips, leads health initiatives, and ensures our school is prepared for emergencies. Her proactive efforts foster a caring and inclusive environment for all.
Melissa’s organizational skills are exceptional. She maintains accurate records, ensures compliance with health regulations, and manages the clinic with efficiency and grace. Her ability to stay composed under pressure was especially evident during a recent medical emergency, where her swift actions ensured a student’s safety—an act that was truly heroic.

She also plays a key role in promoting equity. Melissa advocates for students with chronic conditions and co-leads the 504 processes, working with families and staff to ensure every child receives the accommodations they need to succeed. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to inclusive education.

Melissa exemplifies the qualities of outstanding teaching through her empathy, communication, and support of the whole child. She teaches essential life skills, models kindness and resilience, and collaborates closely with educators to support student success.

Her warmth, positivity, and dedication have made her a beloved figure at Hyde Elementary. Melissa Reichmann’s contributions in her first year have been transformative, and we are proud to nominate her as she truly embodies the spirit of the Good Apple Award.
 

Libby Jacobs - 2nd Grade Teacher & Reading Club Leader

Lynette Abitz - 5th grade teacher & Reading Club Leader

The office staff at Minneha Core Knowledge Magnet are truly the heart of our school. Every day, they go above and beyond to ensure our building runs smoothly and that every student, family, and staff member feels supported. Whether it’s greeting students with a warm smile, helping parents navigate questions, or stepping in to solve unexpected challenges, our office team handles it all with patience, professionalism, and grace.

Their teamwork, attention to detail, and genuine care for our school community make a difference every single day. They embody what it means to be student-centered, service-oriented, and solution-focused. We are incredibly grateful for their kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making Minneha a welcoming and positive place for everyone.

Our office staff truly deserve to be recognized as Good Apples for their outstanding contributions and the joy they bring to our school each and every day.

The West High Security Team should be commended for their relentless dedication to keeping our building safe, fostering student engagement in school activities, and building meaningful relationships that strengthen our community, we proudly honor the West High Security Team. Your commitment, care, and presence make West High not just secure, but truly a place where students thrive.