District names 2015 Gillespie Golden Onion award recipients

District names 2015 Gillespie Golden Onion award recipients

Mario Uribe (Edison Elementary 5th grade dual language teacher), Kimberly Gradwohl (Pioneer Middle School math and AVID teacher) and Erica “Riki” Wauchek (Lincoln High School English/Speech/Drama teacher) were named recipients of the 2015 Gillespie Golden Onion grant. Each recipient will receive $500 for use in their classroom or to better their teaching skills.

Longtime Walla Walla resident and one-time teacher Sue Gillespie and her husband Mike established the “Golden Onion Award” to provide school supplies, equipment and professional development funds to Walla Walla educators. The “Golden Onion Award” is presented annually to three district teachers representing elementary, middle and high school grade levels. The Gillespie Teacher Development Fund is a component fund of the Blue Mountain Community Foundation.

Mario Uribe – Edison Elementary 5th grade dual language teacher
- Nominator: Carry LaRoy (below are comments shared in Mario’s nomination packet)
- Mario is a proud leader at Edison Elementary and is passionate about teaching dual language
- He respects and relates to his students and is considered an excellent male role model
- Mario teaches students to be positive, strong and trustworthy
- Mario is driven to support his students, the Edison staff and state of education as a whole

Kimberly Gradwohl – Pioneer Middle School math and AVID teacher
- Nominator: Debra Field (below are comments shared in Kimberly’s nomination packet)
- Kimberly is continually changing and adapting her teaching style to inspire learning
- She is often found after school hours problem-solving with faculty to improve the school
- She serves on several school committees, is a strong teacher leader and works with a smile
- Kimberly is also an AVID teacher and strong supporter of the college readiness program
- She also teaches math at the penitentiary and enjoys coaching at Walla Walla High School

Erica “Riki” Wauchek – Lincoln High School English/Speech/Drama teacher
- Nominator: Stephanie Gomsrud (below are comments shared in Riki’s nomination packet)
- Riki works tirelessly to provide students unique learning experiences and creative lessons
- She has created a drama program which provides an opportunity for students to shine
- She organizes fundraisers, creates props, coordinates costuming and publicity for all the shows
- Riki has a natural rapport with students and inspires students to do their best
- These funds will help her further support the drama program and enhance classroom experiences

PHOTO L-R: School Board President Sam Wells, Riki Wauchek, Dr. Mike and Sue Gillespie. Riki says she plans to use her $500 grant to support the Lincoln High School Drama program. This year she is directing Alice in Wonderland. The funds will help pay for costumes.