Elko County School District is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 District Teacher of the Year awards. Heather Niman, a second-grade teacher at Spring Creek Elementary School has been named District Teacher of the Year. Additionally, Renee Lesbo, a third-grade teacher at Mountain View Elementary School and James Brawley, a math and career technical education teacher at Adobe Middle School, have been honored as the Elementary and Secondary STEM Teachers of the Year, respectively.
These distinguished educators were selected from a pool of outstanding school teachers of the year, each nominated by their school's administrative teams in recognition of their exceptional dedication and exemplary teaching skills. The announcements were made during surprise school assemblies held as part of Teacher Appreciation Week, celebrated from May 6-10.
Heather Niman, who has been an educator within the district for 11 years, was awarded $250 for classroom supplies and a $500 Visa gift card, generously sponsored by Family Dental Care and Total Eyecare. Renee Lesbo, with 19 years of service, and James Brawley, with 7 years, both received $250 for classroom supplies and a $500 Visa gift card, sponsored by Nevada Gold Mines.
Additional support for the awards came from Everything Elko and LeeAnne's Floral Designs.
"We are incredibly proud of Heather, Renee, and James for their outstanding contributions to our students and schools," said CJ Anderson, Superintendent of Elko County School District. "Their passion for teaching and dedication to fostering a love of learning in their students is truly inspiring. These awards are a small token of our immense gratitude for their commitment to excellence in education."
ECSD congratulates all three recipients and extends heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who made these awards possible. The district looks forward to continuing to support and celebrate the exceptional educators who make a significant impact on the lives of their students.