Unsung Heroes

“We are so fortunate to have Domenica as part of our school family. As a paraprofessional, she gives her heart to her work each day, but what makes her especially invaluable is her ability to connect with our Spanish-speaking families. Her warmth and dedication help bridge language and cultural gaps, ensuring every family feels seen, heard, and welcomed. She not only supports students, but also strengthens relationships between staff and families, creating a true sense of community. Whether she’s translating, encouraging a student, or lending a hand to a colleague, Domenica always goes above and beyond. Domenica makes an impact in our school every day!  We would truly be lost without her.” 

- Stacy Smith

“You made a huge difference by helping me move classrooms from one side of the school to another. You were always willing to help, and my stress level was incredibly low because of it. You are a true GEM and work so incredibly hard! I appreciate you so much!” 

- Jennifer Baker

“You made a huge difference by helping me move classrooms from one side of the school to another. You were always willing to help, and my stress level was incredibly low because of it. You are a true GEM and work so incredibly hard! I appreciate you so much!” 

- Jennifer Baker

"Mr. Braden not only keeps our school safe and welcoming but also serves as a positive male role model for our students. His hard work, kindness, and steady presence make a lasting impact on our school community."

- Jacqueline Liontas 

A student nominated Mr. Ladd for the Unsung Hero program because he provided crucial support during a very difficult time last year. When the student was struggling the most, Mr. Ladd’s encouragement and guidance made a significant positive impact. 

"Ms. Bart is a fantastic teacher and a wonderful person. She has gone above and beyond over and over for her students, including my daughter Aria. She has made such a difference in our lives, and we are so grateful for her!"

- Alison Jandourek

"Tammy shows unwavering dedication to her job, always going above and beyond with kindness and respect. Her love for the children she serves is inspiring, and the love they show back is truly heartwarming. She is a shining example of compassion and commitment."

- Elizabeth Marousek

"The more that you read, the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you'll go. - Dr. Suess

Our school district is beyond lucky to have such an amazing group of Reading Teachers.   As a mother to two children that needed extra help with reading, each one of them has helped make Dr. Suess' quote live on in my children.  The new approaches they would take, would lead to new words read, which lead to new books opened, and more new places explored.  

We are so grateful for the positive, impactful teaching you have made on our children.  You are making a difference!"

- Erin Peterson

A student nominated Mrs. Hubbard for the Unsung Hero program in recognition of the significant positive impact she had. Mrs. Hubbard provided support both academically and emotionally, consistently being there when the student felt frustrated or needed someone to talk to.

“She is a very kind and caring teacher who’s gone above and beyond to help my child out with a difficult situation. I could not have asked for a better teacher for my daughter.”

-Jennifer Brady

"We’ve worked with Karen for years now and what an amazing person. She honestly gives above and beyond. Her caring nature does not go unrecognized at all. She really is one of those people that helps anyway she can. Always looking out for my child and just a blessing to deal with. Thank you for all you do! ”

- Jennifer Brady

“My friend Angeli is more than a teacher—she is a lifeline for so many children. For students learning English in a world that often makes them feel small or invisible, Angeli is the voice that reminds them they matter. Her classroom is a sanctuary where accents are celebrated, mistakes are met with encouragement, and every child feels safe to be themselves. What makes her truly extraordinary is that her care doesn’t end when the school bell rings. In the community, she continues to uplift her students and their families, offering guidance, comfort, and unwavering support. Even children she doesn’t teach seek her out, knowing she will listen and hold space for them. Angeli quietly carries these children’s hopes and fears on her shoulders, giving them the courage to dream bigger. She is the kind of hero who never asks for recognition, but whose impact echoes far beyond the classroom walls—exactly why she deserves the Unsung Hero Award.”

- Maria Galvan

"We appreciate the way they went over and above their professional duties to connect on a personal level of empathy to help our "little" and family through a traumatic experience."

- MB Erickson

“Brad goes above and beyond every day to ensure not only that the facilities are up to standard, but also that the students feel cared for and seen. He has an incredible rapport with the staff at the middle school and is truly deserving of every accolade."

- Meghan Noble

"Branwen Sleider deserves to be recognized as an unsung hero. As both of my children's teacher, I cannot think of a more kindhearted and caring individual. Branwen truly went above and beyond the normal expectations of a classroom teacher, caring for my kids as if they were her own.

This was especially evident with my son. She ensured that her classroom was predictable, welcoming, and loving every single day—creating the stable environment he needed to thrive. We shared many moments where I found myself in tears in her room after school, discussing the challenging behaviors he was exhibiting and working together to find solutions. She showed remarkable transparency in sharing her own personal experiences, which helped me feel less alone in this journey.

I could not have asked for a better transition teacher to prepare my daughter for middle school, or a more dedicated teacher for my son to continue with as he grew socially, emotionally, and academically. When I ask my children how they would describe Mrs. Sleider, my daughter immediately says she is "compassionate and caring," while my son's eyes fill with tears as he tells me how much he misses her and being in her classroom.

Branwen, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything you've done for our family." 

- Parent

"Mrs. Nelson has been such a wonderful teacher for my daughter. From the very start, she made the classroom feel welcoming and safe, which made the adjustment so much easier. She has a special way of making learning fun and exciting, and it’s clear how much she truly cares about her students. My daughter comes home happy and excited to share what she’s learned, and that’s because of the positive environment Mrs. Nelson has created. We are so thankful for her!"

- Kelsey Krueger

"We are nominating Jacqueline Liontas as an unsung hero for her unwavering dedication and exceptional commitment to her students and the entire school community.

Jacqueline exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding teacher. She tirelessly works to meet the diverse needs of all her students, ensuring that each one feels valued and supported in their learning journey.

What truly sets Jacqueline apart is her kindness and thoughtfulness. She fosters a nurturing environment where students feel safe to express themselves and take risks in their learning. Her encouragement inspires students to believe in their abilities and strive for excellence.

Jacqueline also excels in collaboration, working seamlessly with fellow teachers. Her strong communication skills foster a positive and productive atmosphere, enabling the sharing of ideas and resources that ultimately benefit our students.

In every aspect of her role, Jacqueline demonstrates a profound commitment to education and the well-being of her students. Her hard work, compassion, and dedication make her a true hero in our school community. We wholeheartedly believe she deserves this recognition for the remarkable impact she has on both her students and colleagues."

- Mickey Barnes and Elizabeth Bart

“Mrs. Nor is an amazing teacher. My son was in her class in 4th grade. Mrs. Nor cares for all her kids in her class and goes above and beyond her job duties. My son loved going to school each day. She is always so happy and loving. She makes learning fun. She makes everyone feel special, no matter what it takes. She is just Amazing.”

-Susie Pody

At the start of the 2024/2025 school year, their child experienced significant emotional challenges that affected their comfort and confidence at school. Mrs. Julie Adlrich provided exceptional support by creating a safe and nurturing environment, offering reassurance and accommodations during stressful situations. Her kindness and attentive care helped the student regain confidence and thrive. Mrs. Adlrich’s ongoing dedication and genuine concern for all her students clearly show that teaching is her true calling.

- Tanya 

Anita shared that Mrs. Condos is a great teacher. Her child went into kindergarten with very low self-confidence and was full of fears. Mrs. Condos not only helped her child become a better student, but she also helped remove those fears and encouraged her child to come out of their shell. By the end of the school year, her child was a completely different little one—full of confidence, full of good advice, and with a great attitude. She also shared that Mrs. Condos was easy to communicate with and always found the time to support and guide.

- Anita Martinez

"Mrs. Jooss goes above and beyond every day for her students. Her ability to build a relationship with each and every one of them and connect with them on a personal level is truly amazing. She makes each one feel like they are heard and seen. She makes her classroom feel like a safe space for every student. Our son had Mrs Jooss and now our daughter has her and we could not ask for a better kindergartner teacher for our kiddos to help them grow in education and personally. Mrs.Jooss give hers whole heart to each one of her students and her passion for education and kids is what makes her an amazing teacher. We are so thankful for Mrs. Jooss!”

- The Baker-Smith Family

“I wanted to give a shout out about how wonderful Sheri Thoreson was to my two children going through Badger High School. As a mother of two teenage girls at the time, we all know it takes a village to help our children learn from their mistakes, do the right thing, and help guide them in the right direction to grow up to be good, smart, and kind young adults. I will admit, as a working mother and working husband, you try to keep on top of things, know everything that's going on with their friends, school, homework, sports, but that's not always possible. Every single time, I reached out to Sheri for guidance, an ear on the other end of the phone, meeting after meeting, Sheri was ALWAYS positive, never judged, and always looked at the good in my girls, even when they would sit in her office and roll their eyes. She never once judged, when we sat in her office when we seemed to disagree on almost everything on what we needed to figure out. I want everyone to know that if it weren't for Sheri's caring ear, attention to every detail with teachers, grades and classes my girls were having problems with, they wouldn't be where there at today. Sheri is truly one of my angels during that trying time for me and I will always be grateful that she was there for my family. This woman deserves recognition at the least. She's truly one of a kind and you're so lucky to have her.”

- Parent, Julie

"Ms. Nuxoll has made the beginning of this year so wonderful for our family. The regular communication, updates and positivity in her classroom has been so uplifting since sending our son to kindergarten. We truly feel involved in his learning and progress. Not to mention he always comes home with a smile on his face and is excited to return to school. Thank you Ms. Nuxoll for all that you do and making each day special for our kids! ”

- Samantha Cassity

"I would like to nominate Mr. Santiago as an unsung hero. He has had such a positive impact on my daughter and our family since he was in her 4K classroom last year. His open communication, caring nature, and consistently positive attitude made such a difference- especially as a parent sending their child to school for the first time.

Even now that he is not in my daughter's classroom, he continues to check in with her and shows genuine interest in how she's doing. He truly cares about students beyond their presence in a classroom. He is already looking forward to welcoming my youngest daughter when she starts school in a couple more years, and that kind of lasting connection speaks volumes about his dedication and heart.

Mr. Santiago is a true example of the staff who make this school community so special!"

- Alison DeFaut

"Ms. Hunt recently started working at Badger 2 years ago, but she always treats her students with unconditional respect. Whenever I see Ms. Hunt, I always find myself having really enjoyable conversations."

- Student Hanna Z.

"Madame Busch has been an integral part of my high school experience. I have had the opportunity to be in her class for French II through French V as well as for Homeroom.

As the only French teacher at Badger, Madame Busch really invests a lot of time into the students taking French. We have an amazing amount of resources, because of all of Madame Busch does for us. She really cares about each of her students, and you can see that in the care she puts into her lessons and the way she structures her class.

Every year Madame Busch has us fill out a survey to tell her about any personal experiences that may impact our learning, our goals for the year, and how she can modify her teaching to better support us.

This year my goal is to improve my speaking skills in order to be able to converse more fluently. Madame Busch has started including a speaking warm-up at least once a week, and I really value how she was able to turn my goal into something I can practice in the classroom.

This personalization to our class helps not only me, but also my classmates. Some of us are working toward earning the Seal of Biliteracy and the Global Scholars Distinction. Having strong speaking skills will help all of us on our journey toward these qualifications.

Madame Busch contributes significantly to the foreign language department. She ensures everyone in foreign language has the opportunity to expand their skills outside the classroom with the Seal of Biliteracy, the Global Scholars Program, French club, UW-Green Bay credit for upper level course, and much more.

Without Madame Busch, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to consider continuing study foreign language in college. Now, I am planning on study abroad to gain a global perspective that will help me in my career.
 

Madame Busch is the kind of teacher you will never forget. She is the teacher that believed in you, even when you might not have believed in yourself. I am truly grateful for everything she has done for me and my classmates."

- Student Claire H.

"Heather is amazing at what she does. Takes everything that students tell her to heart. She takes such good care of everyone at Badger and cares so deeply about what she does. She doesn't let anyone step in her way for doing what needs to be done for a student. She is such an amazing school nurse. Badger couldn't ask for a better one. Thank you so much for all you do, Heather!"

- Madison Knop

"We would like to give Coach Reynolds a shoutout because she has such a great commitment to our team, and she is always there for the girls, no matter what. An example of her dedication to our team is all of the team bonding and fun activities that we do together. This can be shown in our team chemistry this year because the girls are closer than ever before! We appreciate her and her dedication to all of us!!!"

- Students Lizzy M, Claire H, Natalea B, and Ella J

"Our team really appreciates Pez and how he does so much behind the scenes that we wouldn’t even think of. Even though he is quieter, his support and impact is shown in everything we do through his actions, and we don’t know what we’d do without him!! We want to thank him for another great season!"

- Students Lizzy M, Claire H, Natalea B, and Ella J

"Mr. Dever is extremely patient with all of his students and shows he cares about all of us. He’s always there to help us or join us in fun games instead of getting frustrated and yelling at his students; he finds a calm and more sufficient way of correcting students. Mr. Dever has made my journey through middle school so much better."

- Student Tegan 

"My son, Samuel Alejandro Ojeda Garcia, and I want to nominate Mrs. Pether because she was one of the first supports for him when he entered 4k. As an ESL teacher, she did a great job, and as a person, she always cared about him. Although she is no longer his teacher, he continues to remember her and feel her support."

- Maria del Rosario Garcia Esteves

"Sandy is the gold-standard for staff members at LGMS. She is communicative, caring, patient, supportive, empathetic, and always pours her entire life into the students in her care. She brings life and warmth to our classrooms, and every student and teacher in her day is fortunate to get to work with her."

- Jennifer Kinney

“I have never experienced a teacher that has a heart as big as Mrs. Smith. She truly wants to make a connection with all her students and get creative in doing so. She thinks outside the box. Our daughter had her last year and Mrs. Smith made a plan with just us and her in order to improve her self confidence and hopefully her participation. She did it in a way that was discreet and EXACTLY the reward she needed. By the end of the year our daughter was exactly where we would want her to be both academically and socially. Most teachers would let a kid like ours fall thru the cracks because she's a rule follower and does not cause a disruption to the class. But within weeks Mrs. Smith identified her a kid that might need a little something extra! Mrs. Smith is kind, considerate, and inclusive. She's knowledgeable and truly always has her heart in the right place! Cannot say enough good things about her!!!!”

- Alissa

PE teachers play such an important role in promoting students’ health and well-being, which often goes unnoticed, and we’re so grateful for the impact Angie has had on our kids. She recently reached out with kind words about my children, Layla and Liam, which truly meant so much to our family.

At home, we value staying active—especially outdoors—and it’s wonderful to know they have a teacher who shares that same passion. Angie consistently goes above and beyond to teach her students meaningful strategies and activities that build strength and confidence.

Thank you, Angie, for your dedication and care. You’re truly appreciated!

- The Svoboda’s 

"Laura Lindberg is a phenomenal educator, mentor, and parent whose dedication shines through in everything she does. She has devoted countless hours to ensuring that her students are not only learning but truly thriving. Laura’s passion for education goes far beyond the classroom—she inspires curiosity, confidence, and kindness in everyone she teaches.

Her commitment to excellence and her ability to connect with students on a personal level make her an exceptional role model. Laura leads with patience, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student. Her influence extends well beyond academics; she helps shape responsible, motivated, and caring individuals who are prepared to succeed in all aspects of life.

Simply put, Laura Lindberg represents the best of what education can be—a teacher who changes lives, one student at a time."

- Steve Shepley

Gen has provided us with genuine care, offering support and guidance. She provides a safe space for students to come in times of need. She communicates clearly, drawing on her own experiences as a parent, as well as applying her counseling techniques. It is beyond appreciated.

- Parent Malinda

“I had Mr. Cullian as my anatomy teacher last year. He always made it so fun! He related to his students in every class. There's no teacher I've ever had who's been like him. He's so awesome and passionate about what he does. Thank you, Mr. Cullian, for all that you do at Badger."

- Madison Knop,  Alumni
 

"Abby has made a huge impact on my son over the last two years. She has helped him and guided him through some hard times, stood by him in difficult times, talked with him, and always checks in on him. I’m truly grateful for her support."

- Parent Angie
 

"Our team is honored to nominate Paul Duncan for the Unsung Hero Award. Paul is someone who quietly makes our school a better place every single day. He never asks for attention, yet his actions touch everyone around him.

Paul brings a calm, steady presence to our staff and students. When things feel overwhelming, he is the person we turn to. He genuinely listens, thinks, and speaks with honesty. Our team often goes to him for life advice, and he always offers it with thought and care.

Paul steps in wherever he is needed. He takes on the tasks others avoid, covers the costs no one notices, donates to school causes without saying a word, and plans things behind the scenes so others don’t have to.

He also shows up in ways that go far beyond school. He will offer to pick you up, drop you off, or drive hours out of his way so you don’t have to do it alone. He will drive a van full of coworkers three hours one way through a blizzard to support a coworker at a parent’s wake without question. He makes long days even longer by volunteering to supervise events or cover classes, even though he lives farther than most. He is usually the last one in the building, finishing what needs to be done before he heads home.

Paul is also a devoted father and husband. He shares pictures of his two grown children with the biggest grin, eager to tell you what they’re up to. When he talks about his wife, he always adds small details that show how much he loves her and how proud he is of her. You can feel how much his family means to him in the way he talks about them.

What stands out most about Paul is simple: he always puts others first. He never asks for help. He pays attention to what people need and quietly steps in to make their lives easier. He doesn’t do these things for recognition.

Paul is a good man with a generous heart. He lifts people up with quiet acts of kindness, and most of it goes unnoticed. That’s why he is the definition of an unsung hero, and why he deserves this award."

- The Seventh Grade Team at LGMS

"I can’t thank Ms. Peeper enough for what she’s done! She has gone above and beyond the past 3 years working with my son. She’s gotten him to do things I never thought possible! He’s dressed up for homecoming days, completed homework at home, formed friendships with other students, and become more independent at school, just to name a few things. As a parent, she’s given me such peace of mind by communicating and sharing my son's good and bad days. She is truly a blessing to the special education department, parents & all students she works with." 

- Wendy

"Kris Marten goes above and beyond every day for our students, especially bilingual students learning English. As an 8th grade social studies teacher and 7th/8th grade girls’ basketball coach, he creates an inclusive, welcoming classroom and team where students gain content knowledge, language skills, confidence, and belonging. Kris designs lessons with clear scaffolds, visuals, and hands‑on materials so multilingual learners and students with disabilities can access grade level work. He generously shares resources with colleagues, pilots inclusive practices, and mentors students with compassion and consistency. One recent example is how he encouraged a newcomer English learner to join the basketball team and used that space to build that student's vocabulary, peer connections, and sense of belonging. By the season’s end she was noticeably more confident with her language and engaged in school both socially and academically. I am especially lucky to work with Kris because he once was also my 8th grade Social Studies teacher too! Kris is one of many teachers at Lake Geneva Schools who taught me and influenced my own career path in education. Now, 18 years later I have the privilege to continue learning from him and working alongside him to teach our 8th graders American history.  Kris’s steady leadership, care, and high expectations make Lake Geneva Schools stronger every day. He deserves all the praise!"

- Angeli Soto Mendoza

"Ms. Brittany takes her time to invest in each student on her bus. Despite what is going on, she takes time each day to say good morning, check in on her students, and have a big smile on her face. She is always smiling, high-fiving the children, and making sure they each start and end the day with positivity. She is a true blessing!"

- Elizabeth Karmas

"Mr. Huff's devotion to his students is truly exceptional. He consistently exceeds expectations - offering guidance, encouragement, and support that goes far beyond his role. His dedication has a lasting impact on every student he serves.”

- Katie Coari

"Elise Arnas goes above and beyond. Anytime I have questions or concerns, she is always so quick to respond. Her dedication and passion for teaching shine through. Thank you for being a guiding light and making a real difference in our child's learning journey. My son has very much enjoyed this school year, and that’s a big thank you to you!"

- Dakota Tanner