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WSD Celebrates Distinguished Teachers and Staff at 2024 Awards Banquet
May 9, 2024
The Wentzville School District celebrated distinguished teachers and staff in its annual Awards Banquet on Wednesday, May 8, at North Point High School.
Honorees included Building Teachers of the Year, Building Support Staff Employees of the Year, those celebrating 20 and 30 years of service in the WSD, and retirees. Honorees from WSD award categories of District Substitute of the Year, District Volunteer of the Year, District Community Partner of the Year, and District Administrator of the Year were also recognized.
Almost 250 attendees joined in the celebratory event.
District Teacher of the Year
Hester Menier, art teacher at Stone Creek Elementary, was celebrated as the 2024 WSD Teacher of the Year. Menier has worked for the WSD for nearly 25 years. She is a National Board Certified Teacher. This certification has over a decade of research to support the impact that Board-certified teachers have on students.
“She has inspired staff members to develop their own creativity and skills in art that staff didn't believe they could accomplish,” said Mrs. Melissa Armbruster, Stone Creek principal. “Her vision for making Stone Creek a warm welcoming environment can be seen all over Stone Creek when walking through the building.”
Watch a spotlight video about Menier here.
Twenty-four Building Teachers of the Year were also celebrated.
District Support Staff Employee of the Year
Heather Sweeten, school nurse at Heritage Intermediate, was celebrated as the 2024 District Support Staff Employee of the Year.
“Heather is highly respected by all staff buildingwide,” said Dr. Kim Walters, Heritage Intermediate principal. “She is always approachable, friendly, welcoming, and takes time to listen to others. She gains the trust of others quickly with her high level of competency and genuine approach. She maintains a calm presence in every situation. Mrs. Sweeten focuses on positive solutions when challenges arise. For these reasons, she is sought out by others for her knowledge, ideas, and feedback.”
Watch a spotlight video about Sweeten here.
Twenty-eight Building Support Staff Employees of the Year were also celebrated.
District Substitute of the Year
Jamie Hilgendorf was celebrated as the 2024 District Substitute of the Year.
“She takes the time to build relationships with her kids, and whenever they see her in the hallway during another sub job, they always make sure to wave and give her a hug,” said her nominator. “It's just a testament to how important she is to our students!”
District Volunteer of the Year
Maggie Newbold was celebrated as the 2024 District Volunteer of the Year.
“Maggie is student-centered, culture-focused, and committed to serving our community,” said her nominator. “Throughout the school year, she has volunteered across all areas of our school. She has served in our library, our essential skills room, our general education classrooms, and our office.”
District Administrator of the Year
Pam Glidewell, executive director of human resources, was celebrated as the 2024 District Administrator of the Year.
“Pam plays a crucial role in the recruitment, retention, and development of staff which directly impacts the quality of education district students receive,” said one nominator. “She demonstrates and models exceptional leadership skills. Her dedication contributes significantly to the success and well-being of the district staff.”
District Community Partner of the Year
Although unable to attend the event, Morning Star Church (MSC) was celebrated as the 2024 District Community Partner of the Year.
“Morning Star Church is committed to serving students and families in need through their outreach programs, providing food, holiday assistance, and more,” said the nominator. “They are a true partner in every sense of the word, helping to meet the needs of students beyond the classroom.”