February 2026 Excellence in Education Awards
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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 February, 2026: Horizon Elementary Teacher, Megan Bailey; Jerome High School Teacher, Ryker Harris; & Horizon Elementary School Para, Sandra Kissinger.
The Excellence in Education Award recipients for February, 2026 are:
Elementary Certified Recipient: Megan Bailey
Elementary certified recipient: Megan Bailey, was nominated by her friend and colleague: “I am honored to nominate Megan Bailey for the Excellence in Education Award for the Jerome School District. Megan has dedicated more than 25 years of outstanding service to our district, and throughout that time she has consistently exemplified the very best qualities of an exceptional educator.
I have had the privilege of knowing Megan both personally and professionally, and in every capacity she is truly remarkable. As a classroom teacher, Megan demonstrates an extraordinary level of care and commitment to each and every one of her students. Her passion for teaching is evident in everything she does, and it is reflected in the strong relationships she builds with her students. They adore her, and she creates a classroom environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. The feedback I have heard from students, parents, and colleagues alike has been overwhelmingly positive, a testament to the lasting impact she has on those she serves.
Megan is also an exceptional colleague. She brings thoughtful ideas, deep insight, and an impressive level of wisdom. She has a gentle yet highly professional approach when introducing new ideas or thoughtfully questioning practices that may no longer be effective. Her ability to engage in meaningful, respectful dialogue helps strengthen our school community and supports continuous growth for both students and staff.
In addition, Megan’s classroom management skills are truly impressive. Each time I have visited her classroom, students are engaged, attentive, and respectful. Her calm presence and clear expectations create an environment where learning can thrive, and it is evident that her students feel both supported and accountable.
Megan Bailey is an outstanding teacher, a trusted colleague, and a valued friend. Her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition. I can think of no one more worthy of the Excellence in Education Award for the Jerome School District.”
Secondary Certified Recipient: Ryker Harris
Secondary certified recipient: Ryker Harris, was nominated by multiple colleagues: “I am a new addition to the faculty at Jerome High School this year, and one of the first people to welcome me to the building was Ryker Harris. Since August, I have gotten to know Ryker and have witnessed his dedication to trying to improve the culture and morale at JHS. Not only does Ryker work extra hours to assist the choir and drama students improve their talents, he is also one of the fearless leaders of the JHS PBIS committee, and is an advisor for the JHS Hope Squad. Ryker is all about trying to create a more positive environment where our students can come to school feeling safe and cared about.
Ryker has a talent for seeing where things in the school need to be improved, and he comes to the table with possible solutions instead of complaints. In order to do this, Ryker became part of the Building Leadership Team--all in an effort to try to improve things not only for our students, but our staff as well.
Ryker Harris is an exceptionally talented teacher, and JHS is extremely lucky to have him here. There is nobody more deserving than Mr. Harris to receive the Excellence in Education Award.”
Classified Staff Recipient: Sandra Kissinger
Classified staff recipient: Sandra Kissinger, was nominated by a teacher with these statements: “Sandy Kissinger is the very definition of a team player, and her heart for children shines through in everything she does. Whether within the school district or beyond its walls, Sandy has devoted her life to serving and nurturing young lives. She is not only a dedicated educator but also a proud and loving mother. Through both adoption and her biological family, Sandy has created a warm, welcoming home full of love, compassion, and care which are values she brings with her into the school every single day.
At school, Sandy is a constant source of energy and positivity. She is always on the move, making sure everything runs smoothly and stepping in wherever she’s needed. Her willingness to help, no matter the task, is truly unmatched. She brings a calm, reassuring presence to even the busiest of days and has an incredible ability to lift up those around her.
One especially touching example of Sandy’s heart for children happened last year, when she quietly brought in Christmas presents for students who might not have received any otherwise. She did it not for recognition or praise, but simply because she didn’t want any child to feel left out during the holidays. That kind of selfless generosity is just who Sandy is, always thinking of others and going above and beyond to make sure every child feels seen, valued, and loved.
As a first-year certified teacher, I can’t express how grateful I am for Sandy’s support. She helps keep me grounded, focused, and on task each day. Her experience, encouragement, and quiet leadership have made a world of difference in my transition into this role. Sandy doesn’t just contribute to the school, she helps shape it into a more supportive, joyful place for both staff and students.
Simply put, Sandy Kissinger is a gift to our school community, and we are so lucky to have her.”
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.
