“Congratulations to every single one of you. I think tenure is to be taken seriously. It’s a very important milestone in your own careers,” Superintendent Dr. Katie Ralston said. She also highlighted the importance of the certainty that tenure brings students in their educational journeys.

Ralston emphasized that all 11 employees earned their tenure appointment, rather than just being granted the status.

“I think sometimes that term is said, that you’re ‘granted’ tenure, and I just don’t agree with that. You earn it. You work very hard to do really wonderful things in the classroom,” Ralston said.

One by one, district administrators spoke about the employees being honored, sitting in the audience of the auditorium. A round of applause followed each statement given to commemorate the occasion.

Middle School Principal Sydney Neubauer smiles as she congratulates one of 11 Silver Creek employees for earning tenure at a recent Board of Education meeting.

First to receive the honor was Haley Fennell, a Special Education Teacher described as an employee who works well with colleagues, and one who has improved the learning experience for many students. She was the first of three Special Education Teachers to be recognized, along with Mackenzie Elliott and Taylor Levandoske.

Elliott was commended for her positivity, patience, and “genuine love” for students by Middle School Principal Sydney Neubauer. “Thank you for challenging our students in doing all that you do,” Neubauer said.

Krystofiak called Levandoske one of the best lesson planners she has ever met. “I’m so proud of the work that you’re doing,” Krystofiak said.

Three Elementary Teachers were also awarded tenure: Jessica Tarnowski, Jessica Bunge, and Kim Rich.

Tarnowski was credited for growing into a leader by Elementary School Principal Heather Krystofiak, who said, “The work that she does with each and every student is just so amazing and impressive. The kids love her; her colleagues love her; our school just loves her and we are so lucky to have her.”

Bunge was credited for “a patience like no other” in her efforts as a reading teacher with small groups. “I have never seen it before, but she does an amazing job. Our students are growing and they are thriving because of the work she is doing with them,” said Krystofiak.

Krystofiak commended Rich for growing the district’s STEAM program, including robotics and coding. She characterized the excitement Rich brings to her content area as contagious and admirable.

Anthony DiGennaro, High School English Teacher, also received a tenure appointment. High School Principal Wendy Harrod said to DiGennaro, “It was my absolute pleasure to work with you in my very first year as Silver Creek’s Principal at the high school. … I feel exceptionally lucky to have you.”

Harrod highlighted DiGennaro’s efforts with eSports and producing the school’s play among the ways he contributes to the district outside of the classroom.

Two special subject teachers earned tenure as well, including Marc Bridon, a Music/Band Teacher, and Jesse Hamms, a Physical Education Teacher.

Harrod said it brings her “great joy” to witness Bridon inspire a love for music in students even outside of the classroom setting. She also commended Bridon for helping students thrive not only as musicians, but also as humans.

Neubauer said to Hamms, “Thank you for showing up for our students, not only during the school day, but in our community. What you do with our kids in the classroom and by coaching, it touches their lives. It makes them into the adults that go out into our community.

Two Teaching Assistants earned tenure status: Kristin McChesney and Thomas McMullen. McChesney’s rapport with students was defined as her “true strength” by Shannon Matson, Director of Positive Interventions and Family Connectedness. She also highlighted McChesney’s efforts through several committees and extracurriculars, including KnightU.

McMullen spends every morning visiting teachers and administrators to see if they need help with the technology in their space. “He is always there for support,” Krystofiak said. McMullen has also worked to integrate new technology throughout the district. “He’s attentive, he’s patient, he’s helpful – he really is a remarkable person to be working at Silver Creek.”

The district also accepted resignations for the purpose of retirement from Licensed Practical Nurse Patricia Sternisha and Elementary Teacher Lisa Estee. Krystofiak described Estee as “a wonderful community member”, while also noting her time spent building rapport with students, families, and colleagues.

The next Silver Creek Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 12 at 7 p.m.