Of the 12 Salem-Keizer educators recognized for excelling in their roles, two hail from McNary High School.
Marcus Luther, an English teacher, and Stephanie Lassetter, a math teacher, were honored at the Crystal Apple Awards ceremony Thursday, May 14. Now in its 27th year, the award program honors teachers, administrators and school support staff for excellence in their profession, inspiring students and engaging the community in their work.
The event is a partnership between the Salem-Keizer School District, McLaran Leadership Foundation and Salem Area Chamber of Commerce.
In all, 108 people were nominated for the awards, including 16 across Keizer schools.
“Tonight is about the 108 nominees and the stories of impact they bring to students every day. Regardless of who takes home a Crystal Apple, every person recognized tonight is here because of their deep commitment to kids,” said Andrea Castañeda, superintendent of the Salem-Keizer School District.
Luther was nominated by Jaimie Murphy, and described in a nomination form as “inspiringly persistent” in engaging students. Murphy noted that Luther holds high expectations for students, prioritizing timely feedback and student reflection.
“He has led (professional development) for our staff on simple ways to expertly pull in even the most reluctant students because his classroom is one in which everyone is invited — again and again, as many times as needed — to get through the trees, reach the timberline, and set their sights on the summit,” Murphy wrote.
Lassetter, nominated by Heidi Tavares, was described in a nomination form as creating a “culture of aspiration” among students. Tavares wrote that Lassetter guides students towards their goals, is committed to students’ personal growth, and supports colleagues through professional development and lessons used schoolwide.
Tavares wrote that Lassetter “promotes academic excellence by creating a classroom environment where high expectations, strong instructional practices, and genuine care for students work together to support deep learning.”
Four other McNary educators were nominated: teacher Diana Huerta-Cortez, graduation coaches Rosio Contreras and Nancy Serrano, and bookkeeper Krista VanSlyke.
Other nominees from the Keizer schools included:
•Forest Ridge Elementary – teachers Stacey Evans, Lauren Keller and Melissa Mikesh.
• Whiteaker Middle School – behavior specialist Krista Jardine and custodian Kayliegh Melzer.
• Cummings Elementary – Michelle Crook, instructional assistant, and Bonnie Rosenthal, behavior specialist.
• Claggett Creek Middle School – instructional support assistant Dakota Nimmo.
• Kennedy Elementary – teacher Cortney Clendening.
• Gubser Elementary – teacher Whitney Vue.
NEWS TIP? Contact reporter Krista Kroiss at [email protected].
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