Each quarter, SISD pauses to honor one staff member from each campus who stands out through the RISE Award. RISE stands for Relational with students and colleagues, Innovative in their role, a Servant’s heart, and Enthusiastic about the work they do every day. Honorees are chose by campus leaders, and they show what makes Sunnyvale ISD special.
Sunnyvale Elementary School: Courtney Bryan
Courtney brings out the creative side in every student. Each month she designs home STEM projects so students can create, explore, and build alongside their parents. She also leads our Gifted and Talented program and provides enrichment for our high achievers. She is always thinking outside the box. Principal Sherrie Koerner calls her “a ray of sunshine to students, co-workers, and parents.”
Sunnyvale Intermediate School: Nicole Black
Nicole makes sure every student feels seen, supported, and loved, even if that means putting on a silly costume to make them smile. Her servant’s heart shows in everything she does. She takes extra time with a struggling student, steps into a classroom to help a child in need, and keeps the Special Education department running smoothly by coordinating ARDs. As Principal Esther Castro puts it, “Our staff can count on her, our students adore her, and our campus is truly better because of her.”
Sunnyvale Middle School: Holly Sherrod
This year Holly stepped into a new role as our Yearbook, Digital Media, and STEAM teacher. She jumped right in, learned the content, and quickly made the position her own. She keeps finding creative ways to make learning meaningful, and she is a true team player who is willing to serve wherever she’s needed. Principal Angel Perez says Holly is “truly a bright smile at SMS,” and her energy makes a difference every day.
Sunnyvale High School: Carrie Stanfill
Principal Carlos Soliz says that if Carrie were a Toy Story character this year, she’d be Buzz Lightyear. She has gone “to infinity and beyond” to make sure her students have what they need. If you ever wonder what a truly committed educator looks like, stop by the new health science classroom and stay awhile. You’ll see someone who cares deeply about what she teaches and who she teaches.