Maxwell Kinney, Science Teacher @ NAHS

Mr. Maxwell Kinney is very invested in his role as the Engineering Instructor. He came to check out the robot demonstrations at the Middle School Heritage Day in spite of his busy schedule. He worked really hard on starting up the new robotics FRC team at North Attleborough High School. Mr. Kinney put in a whole lot of effort in studying the competition and the things needed for the team to succeed. He visited neighborhood teams in Franklin and Walpole to learn from them and see what they do. Although the team didn't happen at NAHS this year, we know Mr. Kinney put in a whole lot of effort for starting it up and he should be recognized for it.

As an Innovation Pathways teacher, he conducted 3 field trips in the past 2 months and allowed Innovation Pathways students to gain more engineering experiences that are outside the realm of classrooms and labs. My child came home excited with lots of cool contacts and information about the innovation happening in and around our communities. He is doing the important work of blowing their minds open and exposing them to opportunity.

We are grateful for his work and his investment in students and the engineering program at NAHS.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough High School

Kathleen Santos, Special Education Teacher @ Amvet Boulevard School

My son is neurodiverse, and the school environment is very challenging for him. Ms. Santos has shown great adaptability and creativity in finding ways to encourage my son to complete his work and improve his tolerance of the school environment. She has catered reward systems to his needs, shows genuine interest in the topics he fixates on, and has even adjusted her schedule on days he needed extra help to get his school day started. His grades didn't reflect his abilities until Ms. Santos helped him to produce work demonstrating his high intelligence. She is constantly positive and helps him move past his many upsets. I don't think he would be as successful without her. She is also encouraging and supportive to me on days that it is hard to get him to school. She is a wonderful addition to the school environment.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from Amvet Boulevard School

Ms. Santos has been with my daughter for two years now. She is kind, patient and demands only the best from my daughter. She has had such a positive impact on my daughter’s growth and development as a student. Ms.Santos is a great communicator with parents and teachers. She sets realistic expectations for her students and helps them reach goals. I can confidently say that Ms. Santos has made a lifetime impact on my daughters growth and happiness as a student at Amvet. We are so thankful for her.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from Amvet Boulevard School

Michael Lacasse, Social Studies Teacher @ NAMS and and JV Boys Soccer Coach @ NAHS

My son has tried a lot of sports over the course of his life but he has settled on soccer being his favorite. Over the course of the summer he played summer soccer with his teammates in Norton's league. He was so excited about the upcoming season. In his very first game, he played with such energy. Perhaps more than I ever saw from him. He was fortunate to score and he was just itching to have this be his year. Then on a rather harmless play during the 2nd game of the year, he broke his ankle. He wasn't outwardly devastated but I know on the inside he was. He went to school that next week not knowing what to expect out of his soccer season. That is when Coach Lacasse took him under his wing and told him that he was now going to be his assistant coach. He wanted him to take notes during each game and share them with him and the team the following practice. He also made him an honorary captain even though he wasn't out there battling with them. Although it didn't replace not playing this year. It was such a wonderful gesture by Coach Lacasse. Sports is not only about winning and losing but working through tough times in life and coming out on the other end. Thanks to Coach Lacasse my son will be back and better than ever.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough High School

Mike is really dedicated to the children of North Attleboro through both his teaching career and his involvement with soccer. He coaches soccer for the high school but also volunteers as a coach for NSC. Mike is always positive with the kids and instills good values and I know my kids have benefitted from having him both as a teacher and coach. Mike is certainly appreciated in this town!

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough Middle School

Keri Hinton, Special Education Bus Driver, District-wide

Keri is being nominated for her outstanding dedication and service as a SPED bus driver. Every day, she goes above and beyond to ensure that each child in her care feels safe, supported, and ready for the day. Her patience and understanding of the unique needs of special education students are remarkable. Whether it’s waiting as long as necessary at the bus stops or offering a kind word of encouragement, she consistently demonstrates compassion and commitment to her students. Her calm demeanor and unwavering support make a meaningful difference in their daily routines, and she truly exemplifies what it means to care for and serve our special needs community. Her patience and understanding of the unique challenges faced by special needs children are truly inspiring.

In addition to her remarkable patience and care for the children, Keri exemplifies true professionalism in every aspect of her role. She maintains excellent communication with parents, teachers, and school staff, ensuring that everyone is kept informed and aligned with each child’s unique needs. Her attention to detail is impeccable, whether it's in managing daily schedules, handling special accommodations, or ensuring that safety protocols are followed to the highest standard.  She truly sets an example of what it means to be dedicated, compassionate, and professional in her role as a SPED bus driver.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough High School

Robert Collins, Civics Teacher @ NAMS

Mr. Collins exemplifies what it means to make a difference in the lives of our students and our learning community. An incredible Civics Teacher at NAMS, Mr. Collins has greatly impacted the lives of his students, colleagues, and the town. His hard work and dedication to excellence inspires both staff and students alike.  

Mr.Collins founded Team Green, a community service club where students collaborate to grow fresh produce that is donated to the local food pantry. This club is funded by the grant proposals written by its members. Team Green has been so successful that it inspired similar garden clubs at both Martin and NAHS!  Recently, Mr. Collins started a newspaper club where each issue, entirely written and edited by the students, highlights the academic, athletic, and musical achievements of the students. You’ll even find a joke section to give you a chuckle and brighten your day!  Mr. Collins exemplifies what it means to consistently go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of our students and our learning community. I can’t think of a more deserving teacher to honor as a “Spotlight” Employee of the Month.

• Submitted by a student from North Attleborough Middle School

Anita Deyesso, Special Education Support Professional @ NAMS

Mrs. Meaghan Bowen, Miss Anita Deyesso and Mr. Thomas Calabrese make an amazing team of educators. They work well together and truly care about all of their students. I could not ask for better people to work with my daughter over the last three years.  My daughter is nonverbal. This makes it very difficult to leave her in someone else's care, knowing that she can not verbally tell me how she is being treated. My nervousness faded away when I saw her smile and get happy to see Miss Anita at school drop off in the mornings. It quickly became clear that Miss Anita cares for and treats my daughter as if she were her own child.  When my daughter has behaviors at school, which sometimes leave Miss Anita with bruises, Miss Anita always treats her with compassion and understanding. She never holds these behaviors against her and continues on as if nothing ever happened.  Miss Anita has also made herself available after school, allowing my daughter to participate in activities that without an adult would be difficult for her. She was her 1:1 for unified basketball, going to every practice and game so my daughter could be part of the team. She has offered to go to the 8th grade dance so daughter can attend and take part in typical 8th grade activities.  It takes a special person to work with Neurodiverse students and truly take the time to understand them, their wants and needs, especially when they can't always communicate them. Miss Anita has truly gone above and beyond to make my daughter’s middle school experience better than I could have ever imagined and I am confident she has done that for many other students as well.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough Middle School

Kevin Harker, Transition Coordinator @ NAHS

Kevin Harker is a power of example. As an instructional assistant, I move around and see different classes. I see Kevin encouraging special education students at NAHS to make good choices about their future. He actively seeks to help high school students and the 12+ group get employed, which requires teaching skills they need to be independent. He finds job opportunities, and organizes college visits for special education students to succeed in advocating for themselves.  Kevin works tirelessly, seeks (and gets) grants and scholarships to help the special education students and 12+ group. He has brought in over a hundred thousand dollars for NAHS special education programs. He greets kids by name, gives them high fives, and encourages them to behave in a way that will help them to get and keep a job. This is significant because, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, "The unemployment rate for people with a disability was 7.2 percent in 2023, about twice that of those with no disability (3.5 percent)."  Kevin teaches the students how an employer would react to their behavior through workplace training that he organizes. He is tireless, teaching special education students how to make it in the real world. He is completely dedicated to helping students.  

Kevin checks in with teachers, students, and staff, coordinates events at job fairs and local college visits, and lectures by outside agencies, and is somehow almost always in a good mood. He really loves his job, and the work he does to help the students in the Special Education department at the North Attleboro High School is exceptional.

• Submitted by a fellow staff member from North Attleborough High School

Joanne McGrath, Special Education Teacher @ Roosevelt Avenue School

Joanne McGrath has worked for the North Attleborough Public Schools for 30+ Years. She is a role model for all of us with her outstanding work ethic, knowledge of special education and the laws, expertise on phonics and the Wilson Program, wonderful sense of humor, and sense of community.  Joanne has taught countless students how to read in her role as a special education teacher. Joanne has worked and advocated for students with social and emotional challenges and set them up for success.  Joanne has been my mentor this year, as a new teacher in the North Attleborough Public Schools. She has helped me navigate the curriculum, ASPEN, the special education process, policies and procedures, and establish a positive rapport with the students, staff and faculty.  Joanne has the amazing ability to listen and hear her students, staff and colleagues. As her mentee, I am grateful for her listening ear (even on nights and weekends after a long day of work and taking care of her family). Joanne has an amazing amount of patience. I am thankful for all of the patience she has shown me as I continue to grow and develop as a teacher.  Joanne truly cares about her students and will go above and beyond to make sure that they feel included and cared for. Joanne brings out the best in her students and shows them that hard work and perseverance pays off!  As Joanne retires this year, I would like to recognize Joanne as the NAPS Employee of the Month for all of her hard work and dedication to the North Attleborough Public Schools and thank her for her many years of commitment. THANK YOU, JOANNE!

For nearly a quarter century, Mrs. McGrath has helped support so many students in the North Attleborough school district. Not only is she caring and knowledgeable, but according to my son, she's funny too, always putting him at ease by allowing him to be his silly self and cracking jokes with him every time he sees her. She's an incredible educator, who literally changes the lives of the students she's helped.  We met Mrs. McGrath at Roosevelt during COVID when my son needed reading support to help manage his dyslexia. During this time, he wasn't even close to reading at grade level, but Mrs. McGrath jumped right in to support his needs during his 3rd grade year, and he made incredible progress in reading. As his 4th grade year approached, we were delighted to hear she was going to become the 4th grade co-taught teacher and over the next 180 days, we continued to see him grow and improve in his reading skills.  During his 5th grade year, he continued to see Mrs. McGrath for Wilson Reading support and each month, we continued to see progress. At the start of the year, he really wasn't interested at all in reading at home, but today, he's reading the Harry Potter series, a huge jump in his attitude toward reading, no doubt Mrs. McGrath had a hand in that.  As we're reaching the end of his time in elementary school and looking ahead to middle school, it's clear Mrs. McGrath has set him up for success and I cannot thank her enough for all the time she has spent with him over these last few years. I asked my son to describe what he'll miss the most about Mrs. McGrath and he said, "I've learned a lot from her, but I'll miss her funny jokes the most!"  Thank you, Mrs. McGrath!  We will miss you, happy retirement!

• Submitted by a fellow staff member and a parent/guardian from Roosevelt Avenue School

Matthew Lacasse, Social Studies Teacher @ NAMS

I believe that Mr. Lacasse deserves this award. He goes above and beyond to help his students, always available to guide them, looks out for them. He is a kind of teacher who inspires kids to do great things in life.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough Middle School

Matt Lacasse is finishing his 24th year at North Attleborough Middle School.  He is a dedicated educator and puts students first in everything he does.  He makes his Civics lessons engaging and challenging.  He has created a classroom environment where students feel safe and take academic risks.  His students leave his class with the resources and knowledge to be a positive contributor to our society.

• Submitted by a staff member from North Attleborough Middle School

Peter Johnson, Special Education Teacher @ NAHS

Mr Johnson made a significant positive impact on my son's senior year of high school.  My son did not have a high school experience as expected. There were many roadblocks to getting my son the help he needed to graduate with his class. Mr Johnson went above and beyond with mu son. Mr. Johnson inspired my son and he felt he could trust him as a teacher.  He took a genuine interest in getting to know my son for who he really is. He spoke hard truths to him but in a way that encouraged him and lifted him up. My son often felt misunderstood in a school setting. Mr Johnson always made a point in our meetings to point out his good qualities and achievements before going into his areas that needed improvement. My son could relate to him as Mr Johnson often would say "I understand where you are coming from.  I appreciate who you are."  He worked with my son to keep him organized and current with school work. Mr. Johnson is a GEM and a gift to NAHS!

• Submitted by a parent/guardian from North Attleborough High School

Max Littman, Music Teacher at Community School and Falls School

Mr. Littman is one of the few reasons I continue persisting in school. He is very forgiving and kind. He can also be very thoughtful. He believes people when there's a disagreement and is very good at listening to students. He can also be pretty funny. He has helped me learn music and singing even when it was hard and told me he knew I could do it. I love his class because I get to see Mr. Littman, and he makes me feel good about myself.

• Submitted by a 4th Grade student at Community School

Elizabeth McMorrow, Grade 5 Teacher at Community School

Izzy is an exceptional educator. She takes the time to get to know each student along with their strengths and weaknesses. She has morning tutoring to assist those students who need it and who want to come.  Izzy has also created clubs at the elementary level such as student council, chess club, and had a drama club earlier in the year.  Her students feel supported and cared for. They enjoy being in this adult's presence. This is extremely important for children of this age - to have a safe adult they can depend on.

• Submitted by a staff member at Community School

Kerrin Nugent, Administrative Assistant at Amvet Boulevard School

Mrs. Nugent is the face of Amvet!  She is the end all and be all that helps the students, teachers and parents everyday. She does a great job knowing each and every student and engages with the parents. She is always smiling and willing to give a hand anyway she can help. Anytime she is seen around town she takes the time to stop and say hi to the students and other adults.  Amvet would not be the same without her!  We love Mrs. Nugent!

• Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at Amvet Boulevard School

Mrs Nugent is the first face you see when you arrive at school and she greets every student and parent with a smile. She is always willing to go above and beyond to help you out as a new parent to the school and make sure you know what’s going on, what the process is and just to simply help you out! She is always so responsive and on top of everything. The school would be lost without her!

• Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at Amvet Boulevard School

Jenna Stack, Cafeteria Manager at Amvet Boulevard School

Jenna has gone out of her way to accommodate my daughter’s food allergies so she can be included in ordering school lunch like her peers. She responds to emails outside of school hours and typically within an hour, even on a Sunday. She has continued to provide additional meal options as they become available and communicates with me on a weekly basis. Jenna personally greets my daughter and ensures her food is safely given to her by changing her gloves and making sure it is labeled appropriately. My daughter has waited three years for a cafeteria manager to ensure that she could order lunch on a daily basis and eat with her friends. It has made such a difference to my daughter. I am so grateful for something as simple as her being able to order school lunch. Jenna’s communication and kindness mean the world to us.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at Amvet Boulevard School

Michelle Soares, Special Education Bus Driver

My daughter is in the 12+ program at NAHS and we have been trying to nominate Michelle for years. She has gone way way above and beyond. My daughter is in the  12+ program now but has had Michelle as her bus driver since Middle School and she has become a mentor/friend to my daughter. . .she is her BFF.  Michelle has been there through so many struggles, too many to name, in good times and bad and everytime my daughter has anxiety or stress, Michelle is better than any counselor has ever been to her.  She is patient, kind, and her bus has been known as the “Happy Bus” for a long time. Michelle is always caring and makes the kids on her bus laugh. I've seen kids that don't laugh much, bust out laughing because of Michelle's positive energy. She deserves so much and I would love her to have the Spotlight. Thank you.

• Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at North Attleborough High School

Karl Schaeffer, Special Education Bus Driver for NAPS

Karl is a gem. He drives my son’s mini bus and is so great with the kids and is also exceptional with communication to parents. In the past he had given each child on the bus a superhero name and drew a character to match. This year on the first day of school, he drew all the characters together as a group and sent each child home with their own copy. This is overall the same group of kids as years past so it’s adorable that they’re all a team of superheroes together. It is amazing. . . just like Karl!

- Submitted by a parent/volunteer at Roosevelt Avenue School

Peter Sheridan, Campus Supervisor @ North Attleborough High School

The High School has benefited greatly from Mr. Sheridan’s role as Campus Supervisor. Each morning, Mr. Sheridan welcomes all members of the high school community with a smile, a wave, and reassurance that he is there, looking out for them, each day. Once the day starts, Mr. Sheridan circulates throughout our school, engaging with students and staff, and creating a positive atmosphere throughout the entire building. He has developed positive relationships with students, implemented ideas that have improved the school and has been a positive force at North Attleborough High School. PWe are grateful to have Mr. Sheridan on our team as he plays a vital role in the creation of a healthy and safe culture and climate at NAHS.

- Submitted by a teacher at North Attleborough High School.

Catherine Scorpio, Math Teacher @ North Attleborough High School

Ms. Scorpio is an exceptional teacher. She fosters a growth mindset in her classroom and goes above and beyond to help her students understand the content. Ms. Scorpio is passionate about the subject she teaches, but does so much more than teach math. She makes every student feel capable and important. She accepts students for who they are and understands the importance of a student's mental health. Ms. Scorpio exudes kindness and compassion and is a positive influence in the lives of all her students. She is also an amazing role model for newer teachers at NAHS. She has truly made a difference in the lives of our children, and we are incredibly grateful for the positive impact she has had in their lives.

- Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at North Attleborough High School

Molly Kelleher, English Teacher @ North Attleborough High School

Molly goes above and beyond for all staff and students in the district. Molly is always the first to respond to emails and meetings and I can always count on her for helpful advise. Molly is involved in Student Voices Summit, Student Council, and Adopt-A-Family throughout the year. She is so busy and yet is always available to talk. This is my first year at the high school and when there was no one available to be my mentor, Molly stepped up. She has been invaluable to me this year and stops by to check in on me often. Her knowledge and love of North Attleboro can be felt by myself and the students. Many of my students have very positive things to say about her and the way she teaches. She makes connections wherever she goes and this deserves to be recognized. Thank you, Molly, for making my first year so amazing.

I have personally seen and benefitted from Molly demonstrating all of the criteria required for this nomination. She has gone out of her way to be supportive towards me despite us being in different departments. Others have offered support as well but Molly has gone above and beyond to check in, be inclusive, and offer genuine care and concern. Additionally, she is involved in organizing the adopt-a-family charity at the High School every Holiday season and the High School Booster club. She brings nothing but positivity and support for her colleagues and that positivity radiates from her classroom as well. If in doubt, walk past her room on a Friday.

- Submitted by fellow staff members at North Attleborough High School

Melanie Marceau, Holmes Transportation Bus Driver, Bus #3 to Amvet Boulevard School and Falls Elementary School

Ms. Melanie has been our bus driver since my middle schooler has been in Kindergarten. Not only does she get our kids to school safely, but she sets the tone for their day. Every morning she greets the kids with a HUGE hello, addresses each child getting on her bus individually and gives them words of encouragement. She takes the time to learn the name of every sibling at the bus stops and says hi to them. There isn’t a sporting event that goes by that she doesn’t decorate for (World Series, Stanley Cup, Super Bowl). She puts all of the artwork given to her by students up in her bus. She even went so far as to decorate the bus for the Falls 5th grader playing in the Super Bowl this year- she had their numbers and town colors adorning her bus! She also went to their game to support them! She is truly a kind person and wonderful employee who cares about our students and it shows!

- Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at Falls Elementary School

When I read about the spotlight award I immediately thought of Miss Melanie. She has been our bus driver since my daughter started kindergarten in 2017. I have two kids who ride the bus every day. She is the first person they see when starting their school day and they adore her. She always interacts with the kids (including my preschooler who does not yet ride the bus but stands at the bus stop). She asks how they are doing and always has a compliment for them. She interacts with my husband and I as we stand at the bus stop, also giving us a friendly wave as she approaches and leaves the bus stop. We need to trust her with our children and the comfort level she provides is outstanding. She notices when one of them is having a bad day, offering a hug if they have a sad/tired face when getting on the bus. When contemplating the idea of moving to a different neighborhood, our first hesitation is that we don’t want to lose Melanie as a bus driver, it would be a tough change. In addition to her kindness and pleasant attitude, we also feel very comfortable that she disciplines the children when necessary and I feel that they listen to and respect her. My daughter feels very comfortable with Melanie, letting her know when she is having any type of problem with another student. Mornings can be rushed and chaotic, but when she opens that bus door with her friendly smile and happy personality, anything that happened in those five minutes beforehand disappears. We can tell that Melanie truly loves what she does and enjoys taking our children to and from school. Although she does not work in one of the schools during the day, she is a huge part of our experience with the North Schools and is more than deserving of this award.

- Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at Amvet Boulevard School

Jessica Jackson, Grade 2 Teacher @ Community School

Miss Jackson goes above and beyond for her students. I have seen such a change in my daughter on how she handles stress with school and different ways she can learn new things. She has made my daughter happy about learning.

- Submitted by a parent/guardian of a student at Community School

Brenda Doucette, LIbrarian - Media Specialist @ Martin School

Mrs Doucette first of all goes above and beyond to make sure that the library is always set up in a way that the kids can find what they are looking for. She also is incredible with the class projects and the ideas she has for the time she has with each class. Also I have seen her outside of the class time, busily trying to get more books for the children and doing what is necessary to keep them in. The care and patience and time that is put forth by Mrs. Doucette is why I think she should be nominated.

Brenda makes Martin School a better place every day. Brenda has a positive attitude, is kind and goes above and beyond in all she does. In the Media center, her love of books and of reading is evident when you see her reach. But she does so much more than helping children pick out books. Brenda incorporates so many other opportunities for students. She helps them with classroom research and community projects and also has amazing technology available for them (green screen and robots). She recently organized a drive to help the North Attleboro Animal Shelter. Students made blankets and toys for them and collected other necessary items they need. She also worked with the student council to raise a $300 monetary donation. She is always thinking of ways to help Martin students and staff. Here are just a few examples of projects she has worked on recently and ways she has gone above and beyond. Last spring she created a “Book walk” outside. This was a wonderful space where teachers could take students outside and read a book as they walked through our peace garden. In February, she encouraged students to write letters to both nursing home patients to brighten their day and also to Martin staff to thank them for all they do. Brenda also coordinates a Mass Book Award Reading inventive. She invites students to read the books, keep a log and has a fun celebration at the end of the year for all who complete the challenge. Additionally, Brenda assists the student council with some of their projects (she recently made some amazing pretzels to sell at our Bake Sale), she is the building technology guru getting many of us through your daily technical difficulties and she organized several author visits to the school this year. These are just a few examples of what Brenda does to make Martin a better community. Thank you for creating this award. I am hopeful Brenda is chosen as I cannot think of a better selection for the “Spotlight “.

- Submitted by a parent/volunteer and a fellow staff member at Martin School

Tom Calabrese, Special Educaton Instructional Assistant and Unified Basketball Coach @ NAMS

Mr. Calabrese is in his first year as Instructional Assistant at North Attleborough Middle School.  He is hardworking each day, and dedicated to the students of NAMS.  This is shown in his day to day work with students in class, and also when he took on the opportunity to coach the NAMS Unified Basketball team in its inaugural season.  Throughout the season, Mr. Calabrese was dedicated to the students who participated and were a part of the team, and he coached them with excitement and great pride.  NAMS students looked forward to basketball practice and games each week after school, just so they could see Mr. Calabrese, and also their peers on the court.  It was clear that each student very much enjoyed the opportunity to work with Mr. Calabrese during the inaugural season, and they are already looking forward to playing again next Spring.  Mr. Calabrese has been a positive addition to NAMS this year, and students are lucky to have him to work with, and look up to as a role model each day.  

In the words of one of his students and players, “Mr. C took the time to play basketball with my friends and I. We won many games and even took a bus to a different school.  He did this after school when he could have just gone home. He is our Hero.”  

Submitted by a Student at North Attleborough Middle School

Carlos Coreas - Head Custodian @ Community School

Mr. C goes above and beyond in so many ways, but the ways that stand out to me are the small things. If he is outside at morning dropoff, he makes a point to closely watch students get out of the car. If a student gets out on the side of the car opposite the sidewalk (where cars will pass), Mr. C will step into the dropoff lane to ensure there aren't any cars coming at the child getting out of the vehicle. All of his decisions at the building, whether big and obvious like working tirelessly long hours when the building was down a custodian to less obvious ones such as this, show his deep commitment to the safety and well-being of the students. I have never seen him correct a parent or make a suggestion that they change drop-off - he just steps in to make sure the kiddos are ok and then greets the kids with a big smile and a good morning.

Mr. Coreas greets each employee and student everyday with a great big smile. He goes above and beyond daily to make sure the school is cleaned. He checks my classroom daily to make sure it is clean and things are not broken. He also deeply cares about the students. He is always seen at the lunch room daily and cleans up spills with a smile. When a student is dysregulated, he works with them to clean up their messes. He also checks the playground for student safety. When he saw there was an unsafe branch, he immediately roped off the area and had a tree service come to make the playground safe for the students. Today when he was checking the playground, he saw a few boys playing football. He took the time out of his day to play catch with the students! He is a fantastic male role model in a school where students need it!

Submitted by Parent/Guardian and Staff Member @ Community School

Laura Detri - Guidance Counselor @ NAMS

My child is an 8th grade student at NAMS.   Due to a medical issue, my child missed 2 full weeks of school in September 2022.  The amount of work missed was overwhelming, combined with the difficulty of navigating around NAMS on crutches for a month afterwards. I cannot overstate how supportive all the teachers were in getting my child back up to speed afterwards.

In particular I want to commend Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Laura Detri. My child is a very social kid but not one to talk about feelings. My child was struggling with this situation much more than they let on to me or my wife. Mrs. Detri met with my child frequently and was able to get them to open up to her unlike they would do with anyone else. She was a godsend and I don’t believe my child would have made the progress they made without her efforts. It's not an exaggeration to say that Mrs. Detri saved my child’s school year.

Submitted by Parent/Guardian @ North Attleborough Middle School

Holly Fritzsche - Administrative Assistant @ Roosevelt Avenue School

Mrs. Fritzsche is the nicest person you will ever meet. She has the kindest heart and the most welcoming smile. She has endless patience and treats every single person with respect. When I was reading the criteria about this recognition, I thought, wow, Mrs. Fritzsche exemplifies each and every one of them. She runs the Roosevelt Avenue School front office like a champion, excelling in keeping things running with a smoothness that defies explanation. She juggles the phone, visitors, kids stopping by the office, and volunteers and does it all with that beautiful smile on her face. I watched her help a student at the school store who didn't have enough money. She got down on her knees in the lobby to their level, explained the situation to the student in a way they understood, and deflected a meltdown all without ever losing patience. Mrs. Fritzsche is amazing, and every single student and their parents' lives are better because she's in it.  Mrs Fritzsche knows every kid and every parent. From about a month into kindergarten she knows those kids. And they have a good feeling about going to see her for anything they may need. She knows all their good and bad times and she’s always encouraging. She always has time for questions and just makes the school a happy place to go into for students and parents. You are greeted with a smile every time you are buzzed into the building. She truly cares about our school, she is the sweetest most kind hearted team member, she makes the entire school a better place and deserves to be recognized as a critical member of NAPS

Submitted by Parents/Guardians @ Roosevelt Avenue School

Elizabeth Giordano - Grade 4 Teacher @ Martin Elementary School

Mrs. Giordano has been an outstanding resource and source of support for her students and parent/guardians of her classroom.   Mrs. Giordano treats her students with respect and love and makes them feel safe and supported at school. She has worked to make sure that her classroom is an inclusive space and that her students embrace differences of all types. Mrs. Giordano helps parents to ensure their children have a great experience at school and set them up for success. 

Mrs. Giordano is my child’s favorite teacher, she goes above and beyond to keep students engaged in learning.

Submitted by Parents/Guardians @ Martin Elementary School

Heidi Lynch, Holmes Transportation Bus Driver, Bus #2 to Amvet Boulevard School

Miss Heidi is the nicest and most professional bus driver I have ever seen.  Heidi is friendly, patient, and kind.  All of the kids love her and she makes taking the bus enjoyable. She goes above and beyond to spread a smile to everyone she sees, everyday.  Heidi is such a genuine woman with a heart of gold. She not only makes the children feel safe with her stellar driving but she truly cares about her job and the well being of each and every child on her bus. When a child on our street is habitually late, she will turn around and wait for him as he frantically runs out the door. She has stopped her route and driven back to our house when my child was distraught that he forgot his backpack. Heidi always welcomes the kids with a smile and a wave and actually connects with them.  The best feeling in the world is to have your children want to get on the bus and go to school with someone they love, making them feel safe and cared for.  She is just above and beyond the scope of what I’d expect in a bus driver and we are so incredibly lucky to have her.  

Submitted by Parents/Guardians @ Amvet Boulevard School

Heather Sawyer - Kindergarten Instructional Assistant @ Martin Elementary School

I do not have enough words to describe how grateful we are as a family that our child has Mrs. Sawyer. Our child has had some issues/medical and Mrs.Sawyer has made our transition into Kindergarten smooth and comfortable. Mrs. Sawyer brings our child down to the nurse 2-3 times a day.  Mrs. Sawyer is always in constant communication with the nurses and myself if there are any changes that need to be made to our routine or if different issues arise.

My child adores Mrs. Sawyer. She’s such a great teacher. My child made a “bottle monster” and Mrs. Sawyer still has it on her desk. Mrs. Sawyer recognizes their creativity and gave my child a golden star for making a book of monsters at home.  She’s gentle and they look up to her.  

Submitted by Parents/Guardians @ Martin Elementary School

It is with great pleasure that I nominate Ms. Sarah Bateson for NAPS “Spotlight” Employee Of The Month.  In addition to performing her job at an exemplary level, Ms. Bateson demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to her students.  Ms. Bateson takes it upon herself to provide exceptional support for her students.  As an example, in my opinion, she has gone way above to help my grandson during the past 2 years at NAMS.  She is always reaching out to him and myself. She genuinely is a very caring person. Ms. Bateson has been a huge influence in my grandson’s academic work, helping him get over many hurdles. She has also been able to help him with personal challenges that he has and is facing outside of school. She always has a very positive input. She is a person who gives her all. She has taken time out of her busy schedule to meet with me and discuss my grandson's needs, progress and goals.  NAMS is very lucky to have such a great person.  Ms. Bateson is helpful, caring, resourceful, and happy to offer services, ideas, and resources.  Through the many changes and challenges my grandson has faced in the past 2 years, she has never given up on him. Her skills, knowledge, willingness to help others, and her dedication to the students makes her a great nominee consideration.  

Submitted by a Parent/Guardian of a NAMS Student

Anne Marie is an exceptional Spanish teacher at North Attleborough High School. She goes above and beyond in every way to encourage, support, guide, and lead her students to success. She commits her work day to getting students to read, write, listen, and most importantly, speak Spanish. Outside of school she pours hours of her own time into detailed, constructive corrections on classwork, homework, and assessments in order to truly demonstrate to her students areas in which they are proficient, mastering content, and struggling. She encourages learning from mistakes and helps students reach their full potential. Anne Marie always makes a concerted effort to get to know her students and understand their strengths and weaknesses. She always puts her students and their needs before her own and adapts quickly to ensure she best reaches them where they are.

There are always a handful of students looking to speak with Anne Marie at any time of the school day. She is someone that the students respect and gravitate towards. In addition to being an exemplary teacher, she is a three season coach as well as the advisor for the class of 2025. This allows her even more opportunity to connect with students and be a leader and a champion for them. Her connections with students do not go unnoticed and her commitment to creating a healthy and supportive environment for all students to learn is remarkable.

Anne Marie was my high school AP Spanish teacher and is now my colleague and friend. I can say from personal experience how incredible of a teacher she is having seen it first hand as a student as well as working with her. I have learned from her as a student and through collaboration in my career.

Submitted by a Staff Member at NAHS

Laura Croteau is one of the most positive, influential teachers that a student can have at Amvet Boulevard School. You can tell from her engagement, parent emails, and feedback from students directly that she truly LOVES what she does. She has taken her role as teacher and expanded it to cheer leader, coach, confidant, and so much more. Our daughter has anxiety, and one of the few people she truly accepts and trusts is Laura Croteau. She has been a strong advocate and supporter of ensuring that every student in her class is learning to their full capability. This influence, kindness, and determination is what really sets her apart. She takes ownership and responsibility for every student. She celebrates successes, and she is there to figure out the hardships. This level of teaching truly exemplifies what it means to be best-in-class.

Submitted by a Parent/Guardian of an Amvet Boulevard Student

Ashley Wilk has incredible passion and genuine care for both her class and Community School students. Community is blessed to have someone so engaged, fostering inclusion, and embodying compassion daily. I've witnessed these qualities firsthand, coupled with exceptional patience, while volunteering at Community School.  Ashley always remains calm and collected, while putting the child's needs and well-being first, despite responding to escalating behaviors. Instructional assistants and special education teachers alike are often the invisible forces that make life-altering impacts on children's lives - Ashley and her peers should be recognized for their amazing efforts and impact.

Submitted by a Parent/Guardian of a Community School Student

Mr. Germaine has been a custodian at Martin School for 12 years (and in the district for 14).  Jim is always the first to hop in and offer support when help is needed.  He greets students and staff with a smile everyday.  He treats everyone patiently and with kindness, always.   Lately, we’ve had difficulty with custodial staffing and Jim has graciously filled in and put the needs of our school before his own (even missing his tropical vacation with his wife!)  Day to day, Jim connects with students and staff in a meaningful way.  He’ll remember if your spouse is sick, or if your son had a hockey tournament.  

During the height of COVID cleaning protocols, Jim worked tirelessly to ensure the cleanliness of the building and our safety.  As COVID evolves, he continues to be flexible and dedicated.  Jim truly goes above and beyond every single day.  Martin School is a better place because of him.

Submitted by a Staff Member at Martin School.