Please join us in celebrating our 2024 Thrive Award recipients! This yearly celebration is a tribute to the remarkable efforts of our staff and volunteers whose dedication is the cornerstone of our success. Now renamed to align with our strategic plan and core commitments, the Thrive Awards reflect our shared values of belonging, communication, support, wellness and learning.
Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations this year helping us spotlight the staff and volunteers whose tireless contributions make Meridian a community where everyone thrives.
Community Builder Award
Kayla Turner, teacher at Meridian High School
At Meridian High School, Kayla Turner stands as a model of Meridian’s core value of Belonging. Her actions and teachings create a welcoming place where understanding and respect are not just priorities but a way of life.
Mrs. Turner’s leadership of the Multicultural Club is a vibrant example of our commitment to honor, value and hear from everyone. She ensures that learners experience a community that embraces and celebrates who they are, fostering an environment where diversity is not just recognized but cherished.
Her classroom is more than a place of learning—it’s a haven where every student feels seen, heard and cared for. She prioritizes student relationships, ensuring her classroom is a place of acceptance and a safe space for all.
Mrs. Turner’s proactive approach from weekly check-ins to fostering family connections, exemplifies her commitment to students’ well-being and success. Her respect and understanding encourage open dialogue, creating an environment where every voice matters, and every idea is valued.
A student, one of many, who nominated Mrs. Turner shared this: “She is one of the most open minded and accepting people I know, and constantly inspires me to love everyone around me despite our differences. She is a wonderful person who never has a bad thing to say about anyone and shows everyone at the high school how to be an accepting, loving and open person.”
Honorable mention
Alicia Roberts, family services coordinator: She helps families feel welcome, valued and comfortable. She listens to their needs and does her best to support them. She provides a safe space at the Meridian Family Support Center for students and families, providing valuable information, referrals and resources.
Inspiring Educator Award
Steve Lawrence, teacher at Meridian High School
Steve Lawrence is a true embodiment of Meridian’s commitment to learning. His interactive teaching style and willingness to adapt to students’ needs makes his classroom a dynamic and inclusive environment.
He is always ready to answer questions and delve deeper into subjects. The way Mr. Lawrence makes every subject interesting and accessible, reflects our dedication to an inclusive and robust education. Mr. Lawrence’s desire for feedback and relationship-building showcases his dedication to continuous improvement and student connection.
His expectations of high standards combined with encouragement and honest communication ensures every student is supported and challenged to excel. His ‘Temp Check’ Mondays are a testament to his commitment to understanding each student’s individual journey.
As Meridian strives to prepare students for their career and life goals, Mr. Lawrence’s passion for teaching equips students with the tools they need for success. His personal investment in students’ post-high school plans speaks volumes of his commitment to their success. He ensures that every student is included as an active partner in their education, setting them on a path to achieve their fullest potential.
Honorable mention
Jacob Dennis, teacher, Meridian Middle School: “He makes class more interesting with his relatable humor to students. He’s helpful with instructions and questions from students. He is able to brighten up the classroom with his way of teaching, and explains thoroughly with directions.”
Partnership Award
Jeff Caraco, teacher at MP3
In the spirit of Meridian’s core value of support, Jeff Caraco stands out. He plays a pivotal role in nurturing success for every student, working in partnership with staff and families.
Mr. Caraco’s mastery over curriculum is unparalleled. His ability to describe each one with such detail and tailor them to diverse learning styles is nothing short of remarkable. His recommendations for supplementary materials—be it insightful websites, enriching books, or educational games—have significantly enhanced the learning experience for students. He takes a genuine interest in students and always finds ways to fuel their enthusiasm for learning.
His weekly meetings with students are more than just check-ins; they are a collaborative effort in self-assessment and goal setting. Mr. Caraco’s encouragement and insights empower students to take an active role in their educational journey, engaging them in their own progress.
Mr. Caraco’s ability to make learning exciting and his dedication to being a resource for both students and families exemplify the supportive environment that Meridian strives to create. He ensures that every student is heard, valued and included in shaping their educational experience.
Honorable mention
Jodi Zander, paraeducator, Irene Reither Elementary: “She brings structure, routine, and high expectations for the students she supports. She is willing to step into other settings and support as needed. She is continually learning from our specialists and implementing strategies to support student success. She has been a key member in building a very strong preschool team.”
Wellness Champion Award
Kathy Greshock, counselor at Meridian Middle School
Kathy Greshock creates an environment where students can thrive. Her commitment to students’ social, and emotional well-being is evident in the safe haven she has created at Meridian Middle School, where every student feels safe to be themselves.
She listens to students with empathy, offering advice that not only addresses immediate concerns but also supports their long-term health and wellness. Mrs. Greshock’s dedication ensures that every student is heard and supported, embodying Meridian’s vision where students are actively involved in developing their own well-being. Her counseling office is where worries shrink, and solutions grow.
She provides actionable advice and teaches students strategies that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for life’s journey with resilience and understanding.
A student who nominated Mrs. Greshock shared this: “She’s helped me with every problem I’ve ever had at this school, big or small. She is trustworthy, gives good advice that really helps me, and is always there as a friend and counselor when I need her most. She is the best.”
Honorable mention
Kaley Bishop, teacher, Meridian Middle School: “She creates a supportive environment and is always checking in with students to see how they’re doing. She makes sure everyone’s opinions are heard and is also a really kind person and fun to be around. She always makes sure that we do our best. She cares about us.”
Communication Excellence Award
Robert Kratzig, assistant principal at Meridian Middle School
Robert Kratzig exemplifies an unwavering commitment to effective communication. He is intentional to celebrate Meridian Middle School’s achievements and ensure students, staff and families are well-informed.
The weekly newsletter, an example of his commitment, serves as a comprehensive source of information, ensuring that every family is informed and engaged. It’s a reflection of the clear, consistent communication that supports student learning and empowers the community to be actively involved in Meridian Middle School.
Mr. Kratzig’s MMS Memo to staff is another pillar of his strategy to maintain a well-informed team, essential for nurturing the educational journey of students. His role in implementing the Meridian Mindset and improving student behavior further underscores the importance of effective communication in educational success and building a positive school culture.
At Meridian Middle School, open communication is not just encouraged but valued. Mr. Kratzig engages in dialogue, considers feedback and continuously seeks improvement. His efforts ensure that staff and parents are equipped to support student success, embodying that family engagement is crucial to academic achievement.
Honorable mention
Kathy Ableman, bus driver: “She is always smiling when she comes into work. Always there to help anyone that needs it. She is amazing with the kids on her bus. She not only gets them to school and home safely but takes a minute to say hello and goodbye to all the kids. She is the first smiling face they see in the morning and the last smiling face in the afternoon. She takes time to build relationships with students and parents everyday.”