December 2025 Excellence in Education Awards

Nominate

Jerome Jt. School District No. 261

125 4th Avenue West Jerome, Idaho 83338

Telephone (208) 324-2392 • FAX (208) 324-7609

Mr. Brent Johnson, Superintendent of Schools

The Jerome School District and Jiffy Lube/Burton Group announce the Excellence in Education recipients for December, 2025: Horizon Elementary Teacher, Amanda

Mansell; Jerome Middle School Teacher, Kellie Rushing; Jerome Middle School

Administrator, Nicole Ferreira; & Jerome Middle School Para, Gabriela Becerra.

The Excellence in Education Award recipients for December, 2025 are:

Elementary Certified Recipient: Amanda Mansell

Elementary certified recipient: Amanda Mansell, was nominated by her colleague: “She is a fairly new teacher who has the big job of teaching 5th graders.  She does so well at her class management and creating a safe and productive learning environment for her students.  

Her focus is English Language arts.  She is able to find topics that her students can relate to and use their creativity to write about.  She did  a project called 'Shark Tank'  where students created a business that would help the community.  It was very intriguing participating as one of the sharks and seeing what those students care about. 

She brings so much joy and an upbeat attitude; it really is a fun class to be in. She is helpful and always asks for advice on good books and is always wanting to learn and grow in her own knowledge, which strengthens her abilities to create an educational atmosphere of excellence.”

Secondary Certified Recipient: Kellie Rushing

Secondary certified recipient: Kellie Rushing, was nominated by her administrator: “I am honored to recommend Mrs. Rushing for recognition of excellence. Since joining our school from another building, she has become an invaluable member of our special education team. Her professionalism, positive attitude, and deep commitment to students have made a noticeable impact from day one.

Mrs. Rushing brings tremendous strength in organization and collaboration. She is always willing to assist with paperwork, help colleagues navigate complex processes, and problem-solve challenging situations with clarity and calm. Her willingness to step in—no matter how big or small the task—has made her a trusted and highly respected teammate.

In the classroom, Mrs. Rushing is exceptional. She understands how to design and deliver instruction that meets the needs of diverse learners, and she creates groups that truly work. Her lessons are structured, engaging, and rooted in each student’s unique strengths. The strong routines and positive learning environment she builds allow her students to thrive.

Mrs. Rushing embodies the very best of special education—skillful, compassionate, patient, and committed. Our school is stronger because she is here, and I confidently recommend her for this well-deserved recognition of excellence.”

Classified Staff Recipient: Gabriela Becerra

Classified staff recipient: Gabriela Becerra, was nominated by her administrator with these statements: “It is with great appreciation that I recommend Mrs. Becerra for recognition of excellence. As our lead paraprofessional, she is a cornerstone of support for our school—someone who shows dedication, flexibility, and positivity in everything she does.

In her work with our migrant students, Mrs. Becerra demonstrates deep care and commitment. She advocates for their needs, supports them academically and emotionally, and builds strong relationships rooted in trust and compassion. Her ability to connect with students and help them feel seen and supported makes a tremendous difference in their school experience.

Beyond her primary role, Mrs. Becerra is always willing to help wherever she is needed. Whether stepping in to cover a classroom, assisting a colleague, supporting the office, or taking on tasks outside her regular duties, she does so with enthusiasm and a genuinely upbeat attitude. Her reliability and positivity lift the entire building.

Mrs. Becerra sets a standard of excellence through her hard work, kindness, and leadership. Our school is better because of her, and it is an honor to recognize the invaluable contributions she brings each day.”

Administrator Recipient: Nicole Ferreira

Administrator recipient: Nicole Ferreira, was nominated by her staff: “Mrs. Ferreira arrives at school early each day so that staff have the opportunity to connect with her, whether to share concerns or to celebrate positive moments. She consistently builds strong relationships with all staff by being a thoughtful listener, celebrating successes, and offering constructive feedback with kindness and respect.

Her dedication is evident in her active involvement in all aspects of school life, including sporting events, spirit weeks, plays, concerts, and many other activities. She frequently stays late to ensure that everything runs smoothly and takes on significant responsibilities such as scheduling and program support for PowerSchool. Her commitment to continuous learning and growth is an inspiration to those around her.

Mrs. Ferreira demonstrates remarkable tact and leads with both compassion and honesty, qualities that make her an exceptional leader. She addresses challenges directly yet respectfully and always strives to do what is best for students and staff. JMS is truly fortunate to have her, and I feel grateful every day to work in a school where she serves as principal. She wholeheartedly deserves this award.

Mrs. Ferreira encourages her staff to work together to solve issues. She is flexible when it comes to helping people out in a pinch and she is striving to give all students here who want to succeed their best chance to do so.

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The Excellence in Education Award program began in 2016 and continues through the 2025-2026 school year and has recognized the district’s outstanding teachers and classified staff each month, for a full list of award recipients contact the district office. The Jerome School District presents each recipient a plaque with a $50 gift card provided by Jiffy Lube/Burton Group at the monthly school board meetings.

The community is highly encouraged to nominate any staff member from the Jerome School District. To do so, please visit: https://www.jeromeschools.org/excellence-in-education.