Innovative Above and Beyond Staff 2024-2025
August-December (1st Semester)
Bacon District Elementary-Donovan Burns
For our innovative teacher for this period, meet Mr. Donovan Burns, a music teacher who’s transforming the way our students experience music. With a passion for creativity and a deep understanding of how music fosters cognitive and emotional development, he blends traditional lessons with modern technology, hands-on activities, and movement. Mr. Burns supports core teachers by using musical notes to teach math. Students learn how syllables are broken when reading music. Mr. Burns makes every lesson an adventure. His unique approach encourages students to explore their musical talents, fostering confidence and collaboration while having fun. His classroom is a dynamic space where music comes to life, sparking curiosity and inspiring young minds to think outside the box. With his energy, creativity, and commitment to each student's growth, Mr. Burns is not just teaching music—he’s nurturing a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Central Middle-Savannah Marker
Savannah Marker is the recipient of the CMS Innovative Above & Beyond Award for the 1st semester! She exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and support within the CMS family. Her friendly and helpful demeanor makes her an invaluable resource for both students and teachers alike. Always willing to help, she addresses technology issues with a positive attitude and never complains, approaching every challenge with unwavering patience. Her commitment to assisting others not only enhances the learning environment but also fosters a sense of community, making her a true cornerstone of our school. Congratulations Ms. Marker!!!
Eureka Elementary-Autumn Wiesner
The recipient of the award for Eureka for Fall 2024 is Ms. Autumn Wiesner. The reasons she was nominated by her peers are as follows. "Ms. Wiesner has come into a community in which she did not grow up or have connections and has built positive relationships with the faculty and staff, students, and families of Eureka Elementary. Ms. Wiesner is guided by the principle of doing all that she can to help and support our students and school." Ms. Wiesner "jumped into working with students and having lunch groups. She is extremely empathetic and kind-hearted. She has organized food drives and works to ensure students have the emotional support they need. She is also a team player. She is one of the first to step up to help another teacher." Ms. Wiesner has stayed after hours to assist with the Talent Show and the 4th/5th grade play. "She works tirelessly to meet with students referred for her services regularly. She works with classroom teachers to ensure that students have the emotional and social support that they need to be successful." Ms. Wiesner's relationships she has built with Eureka's students are undeniable. Every morning students congregate around her in the lobby as she greets and welcomes everyone. She also helps all students to feel seen and valued. Ms. Wiesner "has put up bulletin boards in the lobby that coincide with events concerning emotional well-being, including global holidays, so that all students feel seen." Please join me in congratulating Ms. Wiesner for being the Eureka Innovative Above and Beyond Staff Member for Fall 2024!
Phenix Elementary-Sonya Craighead
It is with great pride and admiration that Phenix Elementary School recognizes Sonya Craighead as the fall semester recipient of the Innovative Staff Award. Sonya exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated, forward-thinking, and indispensable member of our school community.
One of Sonya’s most remarkable qualities is her unwavering willingness to step into any role or take on any task that needs doing. Whether it’s assisting a colleague, solving unexpected challenges, or supporting students in creative ways, she approaches every situation with a “can-do” spirit that inspires those around her.
Sonya’s attitude is nothing short of fantastic. She radiates positivity, making her a joy to work with and creating an encouraging environment for everyone. Her excellent approach to problem-solving is rooted in thoughtfulness, innovation, and a true commitment to making a difference.
Perhaps most impressive is her flexibility. Sonya navigates changes and challenges with ease, adapting her methods and priorities without missing a beat. She understands that education is ever-evolving, and she meets those shifts with grace and determination.
Sonya Craighead is a shining example of dedication and ingenuity, and we are so fortunate to have her as part of our team. Please join me in celebrating her outstanding achievements and well-deserved recognition as an Innovative Staff Award recipient.
Randolph-Henry High School-Calli Claybrook
We are excited to announce that Ms. Calli Claybrook, our dedicated agriculture teacher, has been named the Innovative Above and Beyond Educator for Randolph-Henry High School for the fall semester! She currently teaches Equine I & II, Horticulture, Floral Design, Greenhouse, and Vet Science.
Ms. Claybrook is a vital part of the Randolph Henry FFA Chapter, and her contributions often happen behind the scenes, ensuring that essential tasks are completed seamlessly. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she frequently spends weekends checking on our greenhouse, ensuring everything is running smoothly. Her impact is evident in the words of those around her as they comment: "While far too modest to admit this, she has one of the most successful horticulture programs in the state, running a monthly arrangement program for her Floral Design course, as well as facilitating annual sales of poinsettias, snapdragon/lilies, mums and more. ," Additionally, she heads the Equine program, which has experienced growth in both student involvement and the number of horses at Randolph Henry.
Ms. Claybrook has also guided multiple State Finalists as an FFA advisor and coach, consistently placing her Vet Science Teams in the top 5 in the state. This past year, her Equine Science team also achieved a remarkable Top Five finish. Her dedication to her students and the FFA program makes her truly deserving of this recognition. Thank you, Ms. Claybrook, for your hard work and for being an incredible educator!