March 2025 Excellence in Education Award
- Jerome School District
- Apr 9
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 28
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 March, 2025: Horizon Elementary Teacher, Ali Weaver; Jerome High School Teacher, Denae Robinson; and Jerome High School Para, Vanessa Kortright.
Recipients must be a current employee of the Jerome School District; for Certified Nominations: recipient must hold a valid Idaho teacher or pupil personnel certificate; for Classified Nominations: recipient must be employed in any non-certified position;
Administrators are eligible for this recognition each semester;
Students, parents, administrators, or fellow staff members may nominate the individual;
The recognition is for those who go above and beyond in making difference in the life of an individual student or lives of a group of students.
The Excellence in Education Award recipients for March, 2025 are:
Elementary certified recipient: Alicin Weaver
Elementary certified recipient: Jeanette Dolan, with overall school teaching experience of over 16 years, she was nominated by her administrator: “I am honored to recommend Jeanette Dolan for the Excellence in Education Award. Having observed her exceptional teaching and dedication to student success, I can confidently say that she embodies the qualities this award seeks to recognize.
Jeanette brings over sixteen years of impactful teaching experience, consistently implementing research-based strategies that foster student learning. Her expertise in Hattie’s Visible Learning framework ensures that learning intentions and success criteria are clear and purposeful, empowering students to take ownership of their education. Her meticulous preparation and thoughtful instructional design set a standard of excellence.
Her ability to create a respectful and collaborative classroom culture is truly inspiring. Activities such as student-led compliments and choral responses promote positive relationships and a shared commitment to learning. This supportive environment enables students to thrive academically and socially.
Beyond the classroom, Jeanette is a leader among her peers at Summit Elementary. She plays a key role in implementing the district’s vision by guiding the Building Leadership Team through the decision-making process. She also is the co-coach of Summit's AVID Team. Her collaborative approach ensures that decisions are made with the best interests of children in mind, and her leadership inspires confidence and trust among her colleagues.
Her impact on student achievement is evident in measurable outcomes, such as her success in improving Istation reading scores. This data-driven approach reflects her focus on ensuring every student reaches their full potential.
Her ability to build trust and foster a shared vision, both in the classroom and among her peers, makes her an exceptional educator and role model. Jeanette’s unwavering commitment to excellence and her genuine care for children’s success set her apart as a true leader in education.
I can think of no one more deserving of the Excellence in Education Award than Jeanette Dolan.”
Secondary certified recipient: Denae Robinson
Secondary certified recipient: Michelle Vielmas, with educational experience over 5 years, Michelle was nominated by her administrator: “It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Michelle Vielmas for recognition in excellence in education. Michelle is an extraordinary science teacher whose passion for both teaching and inspiring her students goes far beyond the classroom. Her dedication to fostering academic success, personal growth, and integrity in her students is nothing short of remarkable.
Michelle’s commitment to her students’ knowledge and growth in science is evident in everything she does. She brings science to life, making it engaging, accessible, and relevant. Through hands-on labs, creative lesson plans, thought-provoking discussions, and student accountability she ensures her students not only understand scientific concepts but also develop study skills that will serve them well beyond their school years.
However, Michelle’s impact reaches far beyond the subject matter. She is deeply invested in shaping her students into well-rounded, compassionate individuals. Michelle leads by example, teaching her students the importance of doing what is right—even when no one is watching. Her emphasis on integrity, kindness, and empathy helps her students develop a moral compass that will guide them throughout their lives.
One of Michelle’s greatest strengths is her ability to form meaningful connections—not just with her students but also with their families. She goes above and beyond to keep parents informed about their children’s progress, sharing updates on academic achievements and personal growth. By maintaining open lines of communication, she creates a strong partnership with parents, ensuring that each student has a support system that extends beyond the school walls.
Michelle’s ability to inspire, motivate, and nurture her students is truly exceptional. It is educators like Michelle who remind us of the profound impact that a dedicated and caring teacher can have on the future of their students and the community as a whole.
For these reasons and more, Michelle Vielmas exemplifies excellence in education and is incredibly deserving of this recognition.”
Classified staff recipient: Vanessa Kortright
Classified staff recipient: Kathy Hornbacher, a registrar at Jerome Middle School with over 2 years of experience in education, was nominated by her administrator with these statements: “It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter of recommendation for Kathy Hornbacher in support of her nomination for the Excellence in Education Award. As the registrar at Jerome Middle School, Kathy has been an invaluable member of our team, contributing not only through their outstanding professionalism but also through their infectious positivity, kindness, and dedication to fostering a supportive school culture.
In her role as registrar, Kathy manages an array of responsibilities, from ensuring student records are accurate to coordinating enrollment processes. Yet, her impact extends far beyond administrative tasks. Kathy greets every student, parent, and staff member with a warm smile, ensuring that everyone feels seen and valued. Her ability to handle complex situations with grace and compassion is a testament to her character and commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all. She’s constantly looking for ways to improve and grow, and always with a smile!
Kathy is a cornerstone of the culture at Jerome Middle School. Her kindness and helpful attitude inspire both students and staff to approach challenges with optimism. Whether she’s helping a new family navigate the enrollment process, supporting teachers with essential documentation, or simply offering a listening ear to a student in need, Kathy consistently goes above and beyond to make our school a better place.
One particular instance that stands out is when Kathy organized a welcoming initiative for new students, ensuring they felt included and connected from their very first day. This program not only helped students transition smoothly but also set the tone for the inclusive and positive environment we strive for at Jerome Middle School.
In addition to her work ethic and positivity, Kathy is a true team player. She is always ready to lend a hand, share ideas, and contribute to initiatives that enhance our school community. Her presence makes Jerome Middle School a place where students and staff feel motivated, supported, and empowered to succeed.
It is rare to encounter someone who embodies such a perfect balance of professionalism and warmth, and we are incredibly fortunate to have Kathy as part of our school. I wholeheartedly recommend her for this award, as she is truly deserving of recognition for their exceptional contributions to our school! JMS is a better place with Kathy!”
The Excellence in Education Award program began in 2016 and continues through the 2024-2025 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.
