TSD Surprises 2018 Distinguished Support Staff Member

TSD SURPRISES 2018 DISTINGUISHED SUPPORT STAFF MEMBER

The TSD “Prize Patrol,” led by Superintendent Rich Machesky, quietly crept into Morse Elementary school’s media center this morning, in order to surprise Tina Houser, Health Care Aide at Morse, who was chosen as the 2018 Troy School District Distinguished Support Staff Member of the Year. “This award recognizes a secretary, bus driver, custodial staff, para-educator,” said Machesky, “Anyone who goes above and beyond to support student learning in the Troy School District.”

Family members, colleagues, TSD Central Office staff and students looked on, as Mrs. Houser received hugs, flowers, a basket of muffins, and a check for $250 from the Troy Foundation for Educational Excellence.

“If I had to describe Tina in a few words, it would be ‘a ray of sunshine,’” said 2nd grade teacher Lauren Cooper, in her nomination letter. “She takes the time to get to know the students on a personal basis…and gives them a sense of security.”

In her capacity as Health Care Aide, Houser works with special needs students, providing them with the ability to be in the school environment with other children. Fellow teacher and nominator Melissa Batts praised: “Whether she is wrapping herself in garbage bags so she can give an autistic child much-needed outdoor time in the rain, or running a ‘friends’ lunch with a group of shy students, Tina never fails to meet the needs of the students in her care.”

According to Morse Principal Stephanie Zendler, “Tina provides more than health support. She uses every minute of her time to impact children and her fellow teachers in a positive and productive way.” She also spends time volunteering, and is an integral part of Morse’s “Bridge the Gap” backpack program, making sure no child goes home without food for the weekend. “Above all, Tina loves her kids, even when things are tough and the work is hard,” concluded Zendler. “Her students know that too—and love and respect her in return.”

Six other phenomenal TSD support staff members were also nominated for the 2018 award. All nominees will be honored at a luncheon and a School Board meeting in May.

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PHOTOS: (credit Troy School District)

Central Office Staff: Morse Principal Stephanie Zendler (back left) with (L to R) TSD Central Office Staff (including Superintendent Rich Machesky, Assistant Superintendent of Business services Rick West, Finance Director Stephanie Trotter, and Asst. Superintendent of Elementary Instruction Kris Griffor) along with Troy Foundation for Excellence Vice President Shama Kenkre surprises Mrs. Houser

Prin & Nominators: Morse Principal Stephanie Zendler with nominating teachers Melissa Batts and Lauren Cooper

Family: Tina with her parents and husband

With Kids: Tina with children in Morse’s media center

With TFEE: Tina with Troy Foundation for Excellence Vice President Shama Kenkre

1294: Tina with Dr. Machesky and Shama Kenkre