March 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 March, 2026: Horizon Elementary Teacher, Jorma Fletcher; Jerome School District Employee, Rachel Del Valle; & Jerome High School janitor, Betty Herrera.
The Excellence in Education Award recipients for March, 2026 are:
Elementary Certified Recipient: Jorma Fletcher
Elementary certified recipient: Jorma Fletcher, was nominated by a colleague: “He is a powerhouse here at the school. He is constantly filling in holes where we might be missing staff members. He has a positive attitude and encourages the students to always do their best. He helps the students feel safe and loved by saying hi and recognizing them in the hallways. All of the students LOVE PE and it's because of Jorma!”
Secondary Certified Recipient: Rachel Del Valle
Secondary certified recipient: Rachel Del Valle, was nominated by a colleague: “I am honored to recommend Rachel Del Valle, our district social worker, for recognition of excellence. Her dedication, empathy, and unwavering support make her an essential part of our school community and an invaluable partner to our administrative team.
Whenever we face difficult situations, challenging decisions, or sensitive conversations, Rachel is the person we know we can turn to. She listens without judgment, offers thoughtful guidance, and helps us navigate tough moments with professionalism and compassion. Her ability to bring clarity, perspective, and calm reassurance has made a tremendous difference for our staff, our students, and our families.
Rachel is consistently there when we need her—reliable, steady, and committed. Whether assisting with crisis situations, collaborating on plans for students, or simply being an ear when the weight of the work feels heavy, she never lets us down. Her presence strengthens our ability to lead and ensures that our school community is supported with care and expertise.
Much of Rachel’s work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout the entire district. It is with deep appreciation and full confidence that I recommend Rachel Del Valle for this recognition of excellence. She is a true asset, and we are grateful every day for the compassion, insight, and strength she brings to our team.”
Classified Staff Recipient: Betty Herrera
Classified staff recipient: Betty Herrera, was nominated by a teacher with these statements: “Betty is amazing. She is always willing to help however she can. From opening classrooms when keys are forgotten to cleaning up after events. Janitorial is her Jam. She always goes the extra mile to make sure that classrooms are clean, that staff is taken care of and always with a smile. She never complains that she needs to clean up messes made by students. She is dedicated to JHS and the students. The last few times we have done dress up days, she has dressed up to show school spirit. She is the quiet strength behind the scenes to help keep JHS clean and functionable.
She is very dedicated to her family and just became a great grandmother. She goes above and beyond. She brought suckers for my classes as she knows that I have treats for my students. I was out of treats as I had something come up and she just left me a note with them on my desk. This is the type of person she is.”
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.
