Del Mar Union School District Names January Employees of Month

The Del Mar Union School District named 10 employees to its January Employees of the Month. The honors went to eight teachers, a pre-school teacher and a utility worker. The district offered congratulatory words to each recipient (see below).

The winners are:

Ashley Falls – Jen Kamka, 1^st Grade Teacher

In the absence of an ESC Music Teacher, Kamka put together a school musical performance for the first grade students. Over the course of preparing this musical, she taught the students about different composers and other first grade music standards.

Carmel Del Mar – Bill Porter, 5^th Grade Teacher

Dr. Bill Porter is a teacher at Carmel Del Mar School. He is a committed instructional collaborator on our fifth grade team. He is a school and community leader and is always willing to advocate for kids and teachers. In addition to having his teaching credential, Dr. Porter has his administrative credential. Whenever our site administrator is off-campus, Dr. Porter steps in as principal designee, a role he performs with diligence and enthusiasm. Dr. Porter is a skillful problem-solver and has a great sense of humor. He is very loved at CDM.

Del Mar Heights – Kathy Minarik, Science Teacher

Congratulations to Kathy Minarik, Del Mar Heights Employee of the Month. Minarik’s passion and excitement for science is evident in her teaching! She provides students with multiple opportunities to create, invent, and apply their learning to the real world. This year, Minarik has taken on two new assignments: teaching algebra to upper grade students and assuming more responsibility for our Understanding Differences Month.

Del Mar Hills – Erik Bienke, 5^th Grade Teacher

Erik Bienke goes above and beyond each and every single day for our students, our families, and our staff. He is constantly sharing his love and passion for learning while making it fun and interactive for our students. His kind and caring personality creates such a positive morale in the school.

Ocean Air – Jessica Morales, 6^th Grade Teacher

Jessica Morales has been with Ocean Air since we opened and is a true asset in the 6th grade. She works closely with her team of teachers as they plan and provide challenging instruction to their students. She goes the extra mile, whenever and wherever she is needed, to strengthen our school community. A testament to her devotion to her students is that her former students return to say hello to her and visit her year after year; her impact lasts a lifetime.

Sage Canyon – Michelle Turnbull, 5^th Grade Teacher

Michelle has taught 5^th grade at Sage Canyon for six years. She is known for her outstanding instructional skills, quick wit and ability to moonlight as LaShonda Williams Assistant Principal. Turnball is always willing to do what is needed and recognized and admired by both colleagues, staff and parents.

Sycamore Ridge – Jennifer Fletcher, Kindergarten Teacher

Congratulations to Jennifer Fletcher our very first certificated Employee of the Month of 2013! Jen's collaborative, solution oriented, and caring interaction with staff and families is truly admired. We are so proud and lucky to work with Jen!

Torrey Hills – Cindy Huffstutter, 6^th Grade Teacher

Cindy Huffstutter is a wonderful member of the Torrey Hills teaching staff. She is always smiling, ready to contribute, and willing to do whatever it takes to make sure her sixth-grade students are successful. She is an important member of our sixth grade team because she’s always willing to take time to plan and bounce and share her ideas and past examples, even when busy. She is a consummate professional and an ideal staff member.

Early Childhood Program – Melissa Turner, Preschool Teacher

Melissa is a great caregiver to all the babies in the CDC. She ensure the babies get their needs met and have fun at school. She enjoys reading to the little munchkins on a regular basis as well as taking them for stroller rides.

District Office – Tadeusz Lezak, Utility Worker

With great appreciation, we are happy to announce Tadeusz ‘Todd’ Lezak for the employee of the month at the District Office. Todd’s work ethic and knowledge has been an asset to the Maintenance and Operations department. Todd gives 100 percent each day and is committed to the District’s goals and objective.