October GEM Award Winner - Claire Jones

Leo Veloz, Technology Support at Rose Kennedy

Leo's Statement: "I like working for Wayne Westland above all else is the people. I love being able to help our staff and students troubleshoot their problems on the way to achieving their goals, and being able to do so while working with a great team is not something I take for granted. I went to school here, my niece and nephew go to school here, and I'm lucky enough to be able to work with friends and family in making this district a better place to be at. Being recognized is something I take great pride in, and I'm thankful for everyone who helped get me to where I am today. "

JaCinda Sumara's Statement:  “Leo is a joy to have on the technology team. His commitment to patiently serving students and staff is unduplicated. Leo is a model of kindness and exemplary customer service. Our team is stronger because of him.” 

Shannon Pypa, HS Social Studies at WMHS

Shannon's Statement: "Working at WMHS has given me an amazing group of colleagues. No matter what challenges we face, we collaborate with one another to support the success of our students."

Cory Gildersleeve's Statement: "Ms. Pypa is a dynamic teacher! She truly cares about our staff and students at WMHS. She goes the extra mile in her planning, preparation, and presentation every day with her classes, while also participating and supporting after school events." 

Tami Wilber, Paraprofessional at Stevenson

Tami's Statement: "Reason why I enjoy working for Wayne-Westland Schools is I like motivating and helping students. Giving them encouragement to try and explore new things. The laughter and fun we have while they are learning. The best thing is when the students say THANK YOU for helping me. I myself went to school here and so did my son."

Anne Phillips's Statement:  “Tami Wilber is exceptional at her work. It is clear that her number one concern is student success and comfortability. She has formed incredible bonds with the students in her classroom, and she and the classroom teacher work together to create a wonderful learning environment for the students at Stevenson Middle School. She goes above and beyond to create a place that her students are excited to come to, and she does so with incredible success. We are lucky to have Tami as part of our team at Stevenson!” 

Torrey McLeay, Resource Room at Hamilton

Torrey's Statement: "I enjoy working in Wayne Westland for so many reasons, one being the connections I’ve made with my students and their families, which have proved to be mutually cherished. This district has been my home away from home for the last 6 years and I know I can lean on my Hamilton family when I need them. What I’ve been able to bring to the district does not go unnoticed and I appreciate that so much. Everyone I’ve met in some capacity in this district gives their absolute best to our community and I don’t know that I’d find that elsewhere."

Kelley Michels' Statement:  “Torrey consistently goes above and beyond to support our students, especially our Special Education. Torrey is always looking for ways to provide individual support for students to accomplish their personal best. Torrey regularly takes on new responsibilities to make Hamilton a better place to work and learn! We are so lucky to have Torrey on our team!” 

Kristen Wrase, ASD Coach at Central Office

Kristen's Statement: "I have the privilege of being able to collaborate with Wayne-Westland families, staff, students, and community agencies in advocating for the unique needs of students with autism.  I am honored to receive this award, especially during Autism Acceptance Month!"

Anne Kennell's Statement:  “Kristen is a valuable asset to our department. She has gone above and beyond for many at the elementary level. She takes initiative to ensure students are getting the support they need, as well as the staff that work with them. Her work ethic, dedication, and outstanding performance are invaluable. We are fortunate to have her on our team.”