December's Outstanding Employees Announced

The latest group of employees honored by the APS Employee Recognition Program includes a registrar, secretary, principal, and media production clerk.

Congratulations to this month's honorees:

• Sue Strom, Media Production Clerk at La Cueva High School 
• Susan Moore, Secretary at Cochiti Elementary School
• Amanda Cortez, Registrar at Career Enrichment Center & Early College Academy   
• Misty Smith, Principal at North Star Elementary School  

The honorees are being featured on the APS electronic billboards around town, had an opportunity to lunch with Superintendent Reedy, and will be recognized by the APS Board of Education, receiving a lasting memento of the honor.

Learn More about December's Nominees

Susan Strom, Media Production Clerk at La Cueva High School

Sue provides a sterling example of what real support staff should be like. She is efficient and always pleasant. She is the school's Wellness Ambassador, providing information and opportunities in the most positive way. She supports the school's Canine Companion program and its recycling program. "In short, Sue is making the world, not just LCHS, a better place every day," said teacher Martha Bedeaux. 

"Sue does far more than make copies and laminate materials. She, unlike all the materials that move through her hands, is unreproducible, but her positive efforts sure make us all want to be more like her."

Susan Moore, Secretary at Cochiti Elementary School 

Susan is described as kind and supportive, going out of her way to help her colleagues. She works to create a positive, productive environment for all and consistently dedicates herself to quality work. 

"She has always put in her best effort towards all of her tasks and treats every student that comes into the office like one of her own," said Margaret Carrillo, teacher support specialist. "The students love her and recognize her as a positive adult in their lives. APS is lucky to have Susie as one of the many administrative staff members in our district who work hard to provide a positive, productive environment for staff, students, and anyone else she works with." 

Amanda Cortez, Registrar at Career Enrichment Center/Early College Academy   

Amanda is serving both as the attendance secretary and registrar at CEC/ECA, doing both jobs "fabulously," said Sue Estell, a tech at the school. 

"When I first started working at CEC/ECA two years ago, I thought Amanda had been here forever. She knew everyone, where everything was, how to do everything, use every device. She was on top of her job, and always had a smile and a helpful word for me, the newbie," Estell said. "I was amazed to find out that she'd only been working here for a few months longer than me!"

Amanda is described as a great co-worker and a fantastic representative of the school, students, and families.

Misty Smith, Principal at North Star Elementary School 

 Misty is one of the main reasons North Star is such an amazing school to work at, said teacher Leslie Butchr. The school culture is one of kindness, compassion, and respect. Misty not only demonstrates these characteristics to students but also the staff. She is a true leader. 

"Misty has the most positive attitude. She is always willing to listen and find a solution," Butchr said. "Her compassion for others can be witnessed by the way she speaks and treats everyone around her.

How to Nominate an Employee

You can nominate an employee by filling out an online application. The nomination must be completed by someone other than the nominee (i.e., no self-nominations are eligible for consideration).

 Award recipients will be selected monthly by a Peer Praise Task Force.