Guiding Lights: SPS All-Star Awards

It was a surprise of epic proportions for Helen Zhou at Dearborn Park International. Ahead of her annual Lunar New Year production, the music specialist was recognized as an SPS All-Star Award winner in front of dozens of her biggest fans – her family, former students, and colleagues. 

Zhou stood in a daze as onlookers gave a thunderous round of applause and district representatives read a few of the 56 nominations received on her behalf. Superintendent Brent Jones told the crowd he was honored to be in the “presence of greatness.” 

Zhou 25-year career at Dearborn Park is a testament to her love of teaching music and performance arts. Her Lunar New Year assembly is one of the highlights of the school year, with more than 100 students taking part in the production. Zhou calls the experience “transformative.” 

“The most rewarding aspect of my career teaching elementary music and dance is witnessing the transformative power of the arts on my students,” she said. “Seeing their enthusiasm as they learn to sing and dance, and observing their growth and successful performances, brings me immense joy and fulfillment.” 

The All-Star Awards were established this school year to highlight district staff who go above and beyond their call of duty and exemplify the values of excellence, teamwork, and commitment. These recipients are all making a positive impact on the school communities they serve.  

In January, SPS recognized its Beacons of Hope – those who create a sense of belonging for students and staff. Zhou was one of five staff members who received the award. Other recipients were:  

• Sam Cristol, Student Health Outreach – John Stanford Center for Educational Excellence 
• Josie Haley, Physical Education teacher – Queen Anne Elementary 
• Mary McDaniel, Principal – Highland Park Elementary 
• Carlos Vera, Student and Family Advocate – Olympic Hills Elementary 

The award presentations continue to get bigger and better as school communities pull out all the stops for the honorees. At Olympic Hills, students, staff, and PTA members gathered in the library to celebrate Carlos Vera’s win. 

As a Latino Family Advocate and Bilingual Instructional Assistant, Vera is a champion for students – especially those who are marginalized. He has worked hard to show representation by bringing in diverse artists, musicians, and speakers to Olympic Hills. But Vera’s advocacy doesn’t stop there; he speaks up for underrepresented staff to ensure their voices are heard and valued.   

In his tearful speech to the Olympic Hills community, Vera said the school has become “his community.” 

“Thank you for the hugs, thank you for the ‘how are yous,’ … I hope everyone has the opportunity to have this kind of day,” he said. 

At Queen Anne Elementary, Josie Haley’s family and friends were excited to join the celebration. She received more than 30 nominations, with most declaring her Marathon Club the best thing to ever happen for students at the school.  

In the Marathon Club, students arrive at school 30 minutes early to run laps around the playground before classes start. The goal is to run 26 miles – the length of an actual marathon – and students collect a footprint bead for every two miles they complete. Ninety percent of the student body participates in the club. Some teachers believe it’s the reason for the drop in behavior reports.  

“Ms. Josie has created the most positive, inclusive PE experience I could imagine,” said Queen Anne Elementary parent Renata Thronson. “My kids are not ‘typical’ athletes, but they love their bodies because of her. She is giving them a durable gift of body confidence that I hope will last a lifetime.”  

Student Health Outreach Program Coordinator Sam Cristol is helping to create safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for all students and staff. Cristol ensures everyone feels welcomed and valued by raising awareness among school leaders and educators on LGBTQ+ rights.

Parents and colleagues praised Cristol’s integrity, creativity, and spirited approach in bringing together families and generating helpful resources for schools. Their advocacy for marginalized students is what makes them a guiding light for students navigating uncertainty about their identity. 

Cristol is a proud SPS alum. Having graduated from Nova High School, they went on to teach at Cleveland STEM High School for several years before moving to the central office to support students across the district. Their impact can be felt in nearly every building. 

“Relationships with educators, students, families, colleagues, and community partners not only sustain my spirit in this work, but they are the foundation of meaningful change as we strive to create safe school environments for everyone, including LGBTQ+ students, families, and staff,” Cristol said. “There’s also nothing quite like hearing from an educator that the work we’ve done together has led to real, positive shifts in school climate.” 

Every morning – rain or shine – Highland Park Elementary Principal Mary McDaniel is waiting outside to greet every student by name. Her ability to get to know students and families on a deep, meaningful level is what earned her the Beacon of Hope honor. 

Parents know Principal McDaniel can be found outside every morning and use the time to check in with her about their student. She holds students to high expectations and shows care and concern for their well-being. 

Principal McDaniel accepted her award in front of an appreciative staff before their weekly meeting. Lauren Nget, the school’s psychologist sang McDaniel’s praises. 

“She checks in with students to see how they’re doing and reminds them about ways they can be a stronger student,” Nget said. “You rarely find Principal McDaniel in her office unless … She spends most of her day in classrooms or helping kids solve problems so they can get back to class.” 

Congratulations to these All-Star honorees!  

Our next honor is the Opportunity Award. We’re shining a special spotlight on the hard work and dedication of staff members who are creating pathways and opening doors for student growth.  Nominations are due by Friday, Feb. 21. Nominate an educator for the Opportunity Award today!