In this edition of our Staff Spotlight, we feature Israel Smith, the dedicated School Culture and Climate Ambassador at Fortuna Middle School. Israel began his journey working with youth as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach in 2019, transitioning to the educational setting by the end of 2022. Initially joining our district at Walker Elementary School as a SCIA (1:1 Aide), he now serves at Fortuna Middle School, where his efforts have had a significant impact! Read more about Israel here:https://fortunamiddle.fortunaesd.com

In our latest Staff Spotlight, we are proud to feature Jana Reveles, the GATE Teacher/Librarian at Fortuna Middle School. Jana's journey in education is both inspiring and impressive, having dedicated over two decades to the field. With 23 years of teaching experience and 22 of those years within the Fortuna Elementary School District, Jana's educational background is extensive. Read more about Jana here:https://fortunamiddle.fortunaesd.com/

This month's Staff Spotlight highlights Julie Meade, a dedicated 5th grade Math and Science teacher at Toddy Thomas Middle School. Julie's teaching career spans over three decades, during which she has educated students across a wide range of grades, from Pre-K to 8th grade, and even adults in English, both in California and Texas. Her journey in education brought her to Fortuna Elementary School District three years ago, following her marriage to Fortuna native, Tim Meade. Read more about Julie here: https://toddythomas.fortunaesd.c

We are excited to highlight Jessica Mills in our Staff Spotlight, a valued Monitor and Lunch Clerk at Ambrosini Elementary. Jessica is in her second year with us, bringing not only her dedication but also a personal connection to our school community as a parent of an Ambrosini student. Her journey from Canada to California 10 years ago has culminated in her contributing positively to the lives of our students, something she cherishes every day.Jessica's role at Ambrosini allows her to interact closely with students, whether it's on the playground or in the cafeteria, ensuring their safety and well-being. Read more about Jessica here: https://ambrosini.fortunaesd.com/.

We're thrilled to feature Katie Gerving in our Staff Spotlight. Katie is a dedicated Reading Intervention Teacher at Walker Elementary School, where she has been making a significant impact for over two decades. Katie's journey in education began after she moved from Southern California to attend Humboldt State University. It was here that she fell in love with the area, a sentiment that has kept her and her family rooted here ever since. Katie's principal praises her, saying, "Katie has such a heart for the students. She steps in to help colleagues all the time and puts everyone else first. There is no one sweeter or kinder on our campus!" Read more about Katie here: https://walker.fortunaesd.com.

🐝 In this month's Staff Spotlight, we are delighted to feature Carrie Allen, a devoted 1st-grade teacher at Ambrosini Elementary. With an impressive 30 years in education, 28 of which have been dedicated to our district, Carrie embodies the spirit of commitment and passion for teaching. She has enriched the lives of students across various grades, including 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th, showcasing her versatility and dedication to student growth at every level. Carrie's colleagues describe her as a joy to work alongside, citing her great sense of humor and excellence as a reading teacher. Read more about Carrie here: https://ambrosini.fortunaesd.com.

This month, we're shining the spotlight on Angela Velasquez, our Climate and Culture Ambassador at Toddy Thomas Middle School. Angela has been in education for 24 years, and she's been with us for the last 5 months. Her journey in education has taken her from being an aide at Eureka High School, Washington Elementary, and Glen Paul School, before joining our team.Angela's passion for her work is rooted in the opportunity to be a part of someone's life story, witnessing and contributing to the unfolding of their potential. She finds immense joy in seeing students grow into the individuals they are destined to be. Read more about Angela here: https://toddythomas.fortunaesd.com.

We are proud to feature Veronica Girsback, a dedicated First Grade Classroom Aide at our school. Principal Mrs. Nelson says, "Veronica has come in on the weekend with her family to do weeding and plant flowers! Her ability to wear multiple hats — from monitoring duties last year to her current role as a classroom aide — demonstrates her flexibility and commitment to supporting our students in any way she can. What Veronica enjoys most about her role is the opportunity to connect with students, witness their learning journey, and see them grow day by day. Read more about Veronica here: https://walker.fortunaesd.com.