Amy Kalcic, Senior Administrative Assistant to Exceptional Student Services
Amy Kalcic, Senior Administrative Assistant to Exceptional Student Services, is a truly deserving Bee Recognized Award recipient for her many years of exceptional service, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to the Pendergast district. Amy consistently goes above and beyond to support students, families, and staff, always stepping in with a positive attitude and a willingness to help wherever she is needed. Her kindness, care, and genuine nature are felt by everyone she works with, making her a trusted and valued member of the Exceptional Student Services Department. Amy’s commitment to excellence and her heart for service have had a lasting impact across the district, and we are incredibly grateful for the compassion, professionalism, and consistency she brings to her role each day. Congratulations, Ms. Kalcic!
Julie Ann Valdez, 8th Grade Math Teacher at Westwind Elementary
Julie Ann Valdez, 8th Grade Math Teacher at Westwind Elementary, is a well-deserving Bee Recognized Award recipient for her patience, dedication, and positive impact on students and the school community. In just her second year at Westwind, Mrs. Valdez has built strong relationships with her colleagues, students, and families, creating a classroom environment where students feel supported, valued, and motivated to learn. Her engaging and interactive lessons make math enjoyable, and her phenomenal character shines through in the way she connects with students each day. Known for being sweet, understanding, and incredibly patient, Mrs. Valdez is truly loved by her students and respected by all who work alongside her. Congratulations, Mrs. Valdez!
Patrick Nytko, Site Substitute at Sonoran Sky Elementary
Patrick Nytko, Site Substitute at Sonoran Sky Elementary, is a deserving Bee Recognized Award recipient for his reliability, positivity, and unwavering willingness to support students and staff. Mr. Nytko consistently arrives with a positive attitude and treats everyone with respect and encouragement. He is always ready to jump in and help wherever needed, even at a moment’s notice, without hesitation. Known as reliable, responsible, and a true team player, Mr. Nytko plays an essential role in ensuring a supportive and smooth learning environment at Sonoran Sky. His flexibility and commitment do not go unnoticed, and the school community is grateful for his dedication each day. Congratulations, Mr. Nytko!
Rod Henkel, Principal at at Westwind Elementary
Rod Henkel, Principal at Westwind Elementary, is a deserving Bee Recognized Award recipient for his compassionate leadership and genuine care for his school community. Mr. Henkel has built strong relationships with students, staff, and families and is widely respected and loved for his approachable and empowering leadership style, which has helped drive Westwind’s success. He is deeply committed to seeing his school community thrive and consistently leads with a mindset focused on growth, collaboration, and putting students and staff first. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that he was nominated by a staff member outside of his school, a testament to the respect and kindness he shows to everyone he works with. Always willing to step in and help wherever needed, Mr. Henkel exemplified servant leadership when he volunteered to referee a girls and boys basketball game after a referee did not show up, ensuring students had the opportunity to play while promoting fairness, sportsmanship, and respect for both teams. We are grateful to have Mr. Henkel as part of our leadership team and congratulate him on the strong and impactful work he continues to do at Westwind. Congratulations, Mr. Henkel!