More than 40 years ago, the Guilderland Board of Education established a committee to evaluate the contributions of district employees who have significantly impacted the Guilderland Central School District. Since then, over 500 staff members have been recognized for their exceptional service. The Employee Recognition Award is presented annually to celebrate the hard work and dedication of these remarkable individuals for their:
- Many years of loyal service;
- Leadership roles both within and outside of their job assignment;
- Significant immediate or long-term impact on students and/or employees;
- Pattern of inspiring others by example;
- Innovation and initiative in their job assignment;
- Extensive service to students outside of their job assignment;
- Responsiveness to student needs, both within and outside of the classroom;
- Accomplishments that promote the Guilderland Schools in the community and beyond; and/or
- Accomplishments in their respective field of expertise.
47th Annual Employee Recognition Awards
On Tuesday, October 21, the Guilderland Central School District held its 47th Employee Recognition Ceremony, honoring 15 exceptional staff members. These outstanding individuals were nominated by their peers and selected by a committee in recognition of their extraordinary contributions each day. This year’s honorees include:
Nell Ball
District Literacy Coach
Nell is unwavering in her mission to enhance instructional practices and ensure curriculum alignment for teachers across the district. Whether demonstrating lessons, analyzing data, or supporting new initiatives, she approaches every task with grace, enthusiasm, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
For more than a decade, Nell has advanced literacy at Lynnwood Elementary School and beyond. She helped establish a program that significantly boosted reading achievement through teacher cohorts, ongoing professional development, and one-on- one classroom coaching. Its success, shown in measurable student literacy gains, led to districtwide expansion.
Colleagues describe Nell as a thoughtful mentor whose warmth and support inspire confidence and growth. She fosters a collaborative culture where teachers feel empowered to innovate and refine practices. Her work builds lasting relationships, models continuous learning, and ensures every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Deeply attuned to the social-emotional and behavioral needs of students, Nell collaborates with staff to address challenges and create a nurturing environment. Her dedication has transformed literacy outcomes and the district’s culture of learning, helping students develop a lifelong love of reading while supporting teachers in growing their skill, confidence, and passion.
Melissa Drislane
Main Office Account Clerk, Guilderland High School
Melissa has been an indispensable member of Guilderland High School’s administrative team for more than four years. In her forward-facing role, she demonstrates the perfect balance of organization, professionalism, and genuine care that keeps the school running smoothly each day. Whether she’s greeting families, assisting staff, or supporting students, Melissa approaches every interaction with warmth and attentiveness, embodying the high standard of community that defines the GHS office.
Melissa’s approachable nature and exceptional problem-solving skills create an environment where everyone feels supported. She’s known for remaining calm and kind even in the busiest moments, offering reassurance and solutions with steady confidence. Her colleagues describe her as the heart of the office. She is a trusted teammate, a valued resource, and a friend to many at GHS.
Melissa’s dedication, professionalism, and ability to make everyone’s day a little easier make her an invaluable part of the Guilderland High School community and a truly deserving recipient of this recognition. She plays a pivotal role in training new employees, supporting substitute teachers, and managing student club accounts with precision and care. Working closely with club advisors and treasurers, Melissa ensures that every account remains in good standing and that all processes run seamlessly behind the scenes. Her reliability, efficiency, and deep knowledge of school operations make her an anchor for both staff and administrators.
Beth Ford
Nurse, Farnsworth Middle School
For more than 20 years, Beth has been a steady and compassionate presence at Farnsworth Middle School, where she has cared for generations of students with skill, patience, and empathy. Known for her calm professionalism and deep dedication to student wellness, Beth is the cornerstone of health services at FMS and throughout the district.
As head nurse, Beth provides leadership that ensures every building is equipped to meet the diverse needs of students and staff. She organizes professional development, mentors colleagues, and streamlines processes to promote consistency and efficiency across the district. Her work has helped implement concussion management protocols, refine procedures for school physicals and athletic clearance, and guide the hiring of a new district physician, all while strengthening collaboration and communication among the district’s nursing staff.
Beth’s organization and record-keeping are matched by her clear, thoughtful communication with families, teachers, coaches, and administrators. She works to ensure that every student receives the care they need and deserve, often going above and beyond to make them feel safe and supported during moments of vulnerability.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Beth is a unifying force among the district’s nurses. She fosters teamwork, advocates for resources, and models professionalism in every interaction. Her ability to balance leadership, compassion, and operational excellence makes her an invaluable member of the GCSD community
Melissa Howe
ENL Teacher, Westmere Elementary School
Melissa fosters an inclusive environment for students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. As the K-5 ENL Teacher Leader, she advocates for multilingual learners across Westmere Elementary School.
Melissa fosters an inclusive environment for students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. As the K-5 ENL Teacher Leader, she advocates for multilingual learners across the Guilderland Central School District. Melissa leads initiatives like the annual ENL Extravaganza and a bi-monthly professional learning calendar.
She develops tailored learning strategies, collaborates with teachers, and ensures students have the resources to thrive academically and socially. Her lessons are challenging yet accessible, catering to diverse student needs.
As the GEMS Mentor, she organizes monthly sessions and provides one-on-one support to a new ENL teachers. Melissa is also part of the DEI and Safety Teams, contributing to inclusive practices and student safety. Her involvement highlights her commitment to a secure and welcoming environment for every student.
Melissa builds strong family relationships, mentors colleagues on ENL strategies, and promotes cultural awareness. She partners with all four UPK sites to ensure smooth transitions for multilingual learners entering kindergarten and has led a professional learning session for UPK educators. Her patience, advocacy, and dedication to equity demonstrate her impactful role in the school community.
Michelle Jantson
Vocal Music Teacher, Lynnwood Elementary School
At Lynnwood Elementary School, Michelle is the heart and soul of many of the school’s most cherished traditions. Through her passion, creativity, and commitment, she enriches the lives of students, colleagues, and families alike, ensuring that music remains a joyful and unifying force within the school community.
She leads the entire school in “Share and Celebrate” gatherings, honoring student achievements and fostering a sense of togetherness that defines the Lynnwood school culture. Michelle also directs moving Veterans Day tributes that honor local heroes, combining heartfelt performances with slideshows that celebrate the service of staff and family members. Her dedication also extends beyond the school walls as she prepares students to sing at the Albany naturalization ceremony, a meaningful experience that connects young performers to the values of citizenship and community.
In addition, Michelle pours her heart into milestone events such as the Kindergarten Celebration and fifth grade Moving Up Day, spending weeks rehearsing with students (sometimes even teaching them to play the ukulele) to ensure every performance is memorable.
Michelle’s enthusiasm, kindness and tireless commitment extend far beyond the classroom. She understands that “teaching does not end with the school day, over the summer or at the threshold of the music room.” She embodies the heart of what it means to be a teacher and is “the song of Lynnwood.”
Carrie Jones
Special Education Teacher, Guilderland Elementary School
Carrie has devoted 19 years to guiding and supporting students at Guilderland Elementary School. As a special education teacher, she champions individualized learning and creates a nurturing environment where all students feel safe, empowered, and motivated to achieve.
Carrie’s innovative teaching style is evident in her classroom, where she initiates imaginative writing projects and promotes interaction across different grades, sparking curiosity and collaboration. She values students’ viewpoints and narratives, motivating them to express their individuality and enhance the dynamic learning atmosphere. Her flexibility and willingness to adjust plans swiftly highlight her dedication to addressing students’ needs.
Beyond the academic environment, she fosters lasting relationships with students and their families that continue long after they have moved on from her classroom. She cheerfully supports them from the sidelines and takes the time to thoughtfully respond to their emails as they share their exciting updates and adventures with her.
Carrie also serves as a mentor to new colleagues, sharing expertise and fostering inclusive practices schoolwide. Carrie’s quiet leadership, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering dedication leave a lasting impact on the GES community, demonstrating the profound difference one educator can make.
Stacey Kirk
Math Specialist, Guilderland Elementary School
Stacey has made a lasting impact on students and colleagues at Guilderland Elementary School; first as a fifth-grade teacher and now as a math
specialist.
Known for her innovative, hands-on approach, she inspires students to think critically, problem-solve creatively, and approach challenges with confidence. Stacey has a rare gift for making math accessible and exciting, transforming abstract concepts into meaningful, real-world learning experiences that build lasting understanding and spark a love of learning.
Her influence extends well beyond the classroom. Stacey serves as a thought partner, coach, and resource for her colleagues, helping to reframe math instruction so it is both rigorous and student-centered. She shares effective strategies, models lessons, and fosters collaboration, always offering encouragement while constructively challenging assumptions. Colleagues describe her as steady, insightful, and deeply committed to helping others succeed.
Equally important is Stacey’s advocacy for her students’ social and emotional wellbeing. She ensures every child feels seen, supported, and valued—often taking extra time to check in, arrange support services, or simply offer a listening ear. Her classroom is a welcoming space where students feel safe to take risks, learn from mistakes, and celebrate growth.
Stacey’s creativity, compassion, and unwavering dedication make her an indispensable member of the GES community. Through her example, she continues to elevate not only math instruction but also the culture of care and curiosity that defines the school.
Amy Martin
Math Specialist, Altamont Elementary School
As the school’s Math Specialist, Amy exemplifies dedication, compassion and professionalism in everything she does. Her commitment to both students and colleagues extends well beyond her official responsibilities, making her an invaluable member of the Altamont Elementary School community.
Amy’s work with students is defined by tireless effort and care. She regularly goes above and beyond; holding extra math groups during her lunch period, offering after-school support and even accompanying students to math competitions outside the district so they can experience new challenges and success. Her focus on student growth and confidence creates lasting impact, both academically and personally.
Beyond the classroom, Amy fosters a warm, connected and joyful school culture. She is often the quiet force behind staff gatherings and celebrations, organizing breakfasts, holiday parties and showers for colleagues. Her thoughtfulness is evident in the floral arrangements she creates from her own garden to brighten these events. Amy also extends her care to the school’s beloved therapy dog program, having served as the primary handler for Lula and now as a secondary handler for Fozzie, providing time, love and even personal resources to ensure the well-being of both animals.
Amy embodies the very best of our district and is a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.
Lori McCullen
Health Teacher, Farnsworth Middle School
Lori has dedicated her career to creating an environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to take ownership of their well- being. Her classroom is a place where every child is valued, encouraged to participate, and given the confidence to take healthy risks. Students leave her class with not only knowledge about health but also the self-assurance that they matter and belong.
Lori’s generosity touches her colleagues, especially new teachers, who often turn to Lori for mentorship, advice, and encouragement. She offers her time freely, lifting others up and cultivating a spirit of collaboration across the building. Known for her positivity and her deep commitment to others, Lori is both a source of inspiration and a model of kindness at Farnsworth Middle School.
Lori’s care for her students encompasses more than just her classroom responsibilities. She created the popular “Wellness Wagon,” a mobile cart stocked with healthy snacks and positive affirmations, which she uses to brighten the day of staff and students alike. By traveling through the building with her cart, she engages in brief conversations that really help boost staff morale and foster a sense of belonging. Lori thoughtfully involves students with disabilities in the preparation and distribution of the Wellness Wagon, giving them meaningful opportunities to build skills, gain confidence, and connect with peers.
Emily Mineau
Grade 6 Teacher and GTA President, Farnsworth Middle School
Emily has spent 27 years shaping young minds at Farnsworth Middle School, combining teaching excellence with inspiring leadership. As a sixth- grade teacher and president of the Guilderland Teachers Association, she advocates tirelessly for students and colleagues while modeling professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to growth.
A key member of the FMS Equity Team since its founding, Emily ensures all students feel a sense of belonging through her actions, mentorship, and presentations. Her classroom is a lively, inclusive space where students are motivated to engage in critical thinking, collaboration, and problem- solving, developing both academically and personally.
Emily’s influence extends beyond the school. She consistently represents Guilderland at the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) Conference, sharing innovative practices and bringing national recognition to FMS.
Colleagues describe Emily as a trusted mentor, professional development leader, creative problem solver, and consistent source of encouragement. She builds strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and administrators alike, fostering a collaborative and supportive culture across the district. Her experience, heart, and unwavering dedication make Emily a cornerstone of FMS and a truly deserving recipient of the Employee Recognition Award.
Jamie Mullins
Grade 7 Social Studies Teacher, Farnsworth Middle School
Jamie has spent nearly 20 years teaching seventh- grade social studies at Farnsworth Middle School, blending creativity, innovation and humor to engage students meaningfully. She co-teaches with special education and language arts colleagues, designing inclusive, technology-rich lessons that challenge students while fostering curiosity and confidence. Students consistently describe her as both encouraging and inspiring.
Jamie’s contributions extend far beyond the classroom. She has served in countless roles, including Student Council advisor, building president, and teacher leader, consistently going above and beyond to support both students and colleagues. As Student Council co-advisor, she has been instrumental in organizing events like the eighth-grade field day, dances and other school activities that enrich student life.
A dedicated mentor and resource for colleagues, Jamie leads professional development sessions and offers guidance, advice and support whenever needed. She also fosters a welcoming school culture, contributing to events such as the pumpkin carving contest, ugly sweater breakfast and retirement luncheons.
Known for her generosity, infectious humor, and steadfast commitment, Jamie brightens the school community every day. She lifts spirits, celebrates successes, and supports those around her with patience and care. Her dedication, creativity, and leadership have left a lasting mark on students, colleagues, and the culture of FMS.
Colleen Petroff
Chemistry Teacher, Guilderland High School
For nearly three decades, Colleen has been positively shaping the lives of students and colleagues at Guilderland High School. She is renowned for her ability to challenge students to excel academically while forming personal connections. Colleen supports them in countless ways, from writing letters of recommendation to joining their dodgeball team.
In chemistry, she creates a rigorous and supportive environment where students of all skill levels feel capable of success. The climate she creates is paramount, as it plays a crucial role in helping students feel secure enough to take risks, ask questions, and participate in classroom discussions. When Colleen identified an opportunity for her advanced chemistry students to earn college credit, she teamed up with Siena College to bring that vision to life.
She has made significant contributions to educational initiatives both within the district and at the statewide level. Rather than taking summers off, she dedicates her time to the Department of Education in Albany, where she plays a vital role in developing the chemistry curriculum. She works diligently to ensure that the curriculum aligns with the latest standards and is fair, equitable, and accessible to all students. Additionally, Colleen also serves as an adult mentor for students in the Sources of Strength program.
As GHS Building Co-President, Colleen passionately advocates for her colleagues, making sure their voices are heard and their needs are prioritized. She approaches this role with a spirit of fairness, empathy, and collaboration, always keeping the best interests of students at the forefront of her efforts. Her leadership style combines both strength and compassion, earning her the respect of fellow teachers and administrators alike.
Colleen is not just a teacher or a leader; she is a mentor, advocate, and role model. She embodies the essence of serving with professionalism, heart, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.
Zeynep Rice
District Registrar
As District Registrar, Zeynep takes on a complex and demanding role, navigating state reporting guidelines, district policies and protocols with precision. Her deep knowledge and meticulous attention to detail ensure that every student record is accurate, every process is compliant and every system runs smoothly. Quite simply, the district could not function at its high standard without her expertise.
But Zeynep’s impact extends far beyond technical accuracy. She has an extraordinary ability to combine professionalism with warmth, setting the gold standard for her craft while fostering a culture of kindness and collaboration.
Colleagues know they can turn to her for clear guidance, honest feedback and steady reassurance. Families are greeted not just with answers, but with genuine care.
Zeynep also brings her personal touch into the workplace, transforming the district office into a brighter, more welcoming space with fresh dahlias from her garden. Her dedication, reliability and generosity of spirit make her indispensable to the district. Zeynep is a leader, a mentor, a teammate and a friend whose contributions leave a lasting mark on our school community.
Cathleen Rossi
Grade 5 Teacher, Guilderland Elementary School
Cathleen infuses creativity, thoughtfulness, and passion into every facet of her work. She is profoundly dedicated to her students’ academic and personal development, crafting engaging, student-centered learning experiences that spark curiosity and foster resilience. Cathleen’s influence reaches far beyond her classroom. She co-chairs the Character Education Team, acts as a Social Studies Teacher Leader, and spearheads schoolwide initiatives such as No Place for Hate programs. Additionally, she revitalizes communal spaces, shares valuable resources with colleagues, and plays a crucial role in cultivating a positive, welcoming school environment.
Moreover, Cathleen is an active member of the ELA Curriculum Mapping Committee, where her commitment truly shines. She consistently arrives prepared with materials that drive progress—whether it’s units of study she has designed, reading passages that align seamlessly with the objectives, a new beloved picture book she is excited to share, or a tech application that boosts efficiency. It is evident that Cathleen approaches this work with great seriousness, investing time beyond our sessions to bolster collective endeavors. Even though the committee is voluntary and comes with a significant workload, her contributions are truly invaluable.
Cathleen’s generosity and thoughtfulness are apparent in every interaction, whether she’s providing supplies to students in need or offering support to fellow teachers. Cathleen’s intelligence, compassion, and dedication make her an essential part of GES.
Maureen Vacek
Monitor, Farnsworth Middle School
Known affectionately as “Mo,” Maureen is the heart of Farnsworth Middle School. A district employee for two decades, she has become an invaluable presence through her tireless work ethic, compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to students and staff alike.
She consistently goes above and beyond her role as a monitor. Whether jogging alongside a student to help them catch the bus, comforting a child between classes, tidying hallways with a magic eraser or assisting families in retrieving lost belongings, Mo brings care and intention to every interaction. Students respect and trust her, often turning to her as a steady, maternal presence who offers both encouragement and firm guidance. Hundreds could tell a story of how Mo made them feel safe, valued and loved. Parents and guardians regularly share their gratitude, from her compassionate support of struggling students to her persistence in tracking down misplaced phones, water bottles and instruments.
Mo also volunteers to chaperone events, stays late to ensure activities run smoothly and readily steps in to cover classrooms, receptions or other duties. She greets visitors with warmth, serves as a role model to new staff and is a reliable teammate who boosts morale with her positive attitude.
Colleagues describe Mo as calm, wise and dependable, someone who instinctively sees a need and steps in to help. Her ability to balance kindness with structure has left a lasting impact on countless students, many of whom will remember her as the adult who truly saw them and believed in them. Mo’s quiet leadership and immeasurable contributions make her an extraordinary member of the FMS community.