District names 2016 Gillespie Golden Onion award recipients

Kate VanCleve (Prospect Point Elementary 5th grade teacher), Angie Gardea (Garrison Middle School counselor) and Aaron Martin (Walla Walla High School teacher) were named recipients of the 2015-2016 Gillespie Golden. 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 school and high school grade levels. The Gillespie Teacher Development Fund is a component fund of the Blue Mountain Community Foundation.

Elementary Recipient
Kate VanCleve – Prospect Point Elementary 5th grade teacher
· Nominator: David Parodi
· Kate is known on campus as someone always eager to improve instruction and develop professionally
· She started the One Book, One School program at Prospect Point (each family has a copy)
· She coordinates the PALS program for peer leadership support to enhance the school climate
· Kate ensures new families are welcomed to the school and connects 5th graders with new students
· Kate is also a board member for Little Theater and point person for Missoula Children’s Theater

Middle School Recipient
Angie Gardea – Garrison Middle School counselor
· Nominator: Catherine Blethen
· Angie is a go to person for nearly all aspects of school operations at Garrison Middle School
· She provides academic and whole child support for all Garrison Middle School students
· Angie helps coordinate testing, special events and the school’s Closet program which provides clothing
· She works closely with teachers and parents to support all aspects of student services and involvement
· Angie also serves as the districtwide Crisis Recovery and Prevention specialist

High School Recipient
Aaron Martin – Walla Walla High School World Languages teacher
· Nominator: Refugio Reyes
· Aaron is head of the World Languages Department and is known as a great listener and colleague
· He advocates for department funding, encourages professional development and seeks new ideas
· Aaron is organizing a trip to Costa Rica to help students enhance their learning and experiences
· He created a skype project so Wa-Hi students could interact with students in other countries
· Aaron is a lifelong learner and is currently pursuing his National Board Certification