Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/827301
SPRING 2017| WEAnews 10 Eastern Laramie County Instructional Facilitator Receives Byrd Award In the last year, Heidi MacVey has worked with staff in Burns and Carpenter Elementary schools to focus on looking for the best in students. Heidi would also leave notes for teachers, and sometimes leave them on bulletin boards, reminding teachers of what a good job they were doing in the classroom. Kathy Thrush and Diana Wedl, both educators in Laramie County School District #2, nominated MacVey for the award for numerous reasons. "Each day she offers a 'Nugget of Sunshine' to the entire staff (classified and certified) via email," Diana said. "She has received a number of responses from all levels of our district regarding how these 'nuggets' have impacted them at just the right time with just the right word," Kathy said. MacVey also found herself using her bilingual skills (Spanish/English) to help a struggling student in Carpenter who couldn't speak English. As the year progressed, she helped him learn more English, worked with publishing companies to secure appropriate resources (with no cost to the district), and started translating for parents in the community as well. Heidi began to develop relationships with other Spanish-speaking families in the district, and helped with parent-teacher conferences, as well as IEP meetings. "Heidi modeled a consistent message of empathy. She appealed to teachers as parents to highlight the bravery and trust it takes to send your children to a place they are not easily understood, and where you cannot easily ask questions to make sure they are okay," Diana said. Heidi has already begun making plans for the next school year for more community outreach, and helping change the approach of Spanish-speaking parents as advocates for education, rather than obstacles. Rick and Lori Andrews of Arrow Electric Receive Friend of Education Award Rick and Lori Andrews, the wonderful couple who own Arrow Electric located in Douglas, WY, were the recipients of the Friend of Education Award at WEA Delegate Assembly this year. The Andrews were nominated by numerous teachers at Evansville Elementary, located in Evansville, WY, for all their work and the materials they donated to complete the school's greenhouse. The award was accepted by the Andrews, who have donated nearly $20,000 in materials, work and expertise to the greenhouse project, and who still donate their time to keep the greenhouse fully functional. "Without electricity, we wouldn't be able to run our cooling and heating systems…that electrical system keeps out plants green and healthy," said Noelle Clark, Evansville educator and NCEA member. "With their support, the students at Evansville are experiencing today the enriching rewards of being involved in learning experiences that utilize the greenhouse," said Evansville teacher Nancy Rino. Not only did the Andrews help Evansville Elementary, but Rick Andrews has coached youth baseball for over 30 years in their hometown of Douglas. Lori has also donated her time through decades of service to Wyoming students, whether it be fundraising, or transporting kids all over the state to their activities.