Please join us in celebrating our Employees of the 4th Quarter!
The Employee of the Quarter Award recognizes Bettendorf Community School District staff who inspire exceptional service and attitude. Recipients demonstrate a commitment to their job and/or school involvement above and beyond expectations. We are #BETTerTogether
Kelly & Garvey Cypher
Nurse & Professional Therapy Dog
Paul Norton Elementary
Kelly is a dedicated and compassionate nurse who has gone above and beyond to support multiple schools this year, all while continuing to care for her own students. Her flexibility, strong communication, and commitment—especially in managing two new diabetic students at Paul Norton and helping at Grant Wood—reflect her deep dedication to student well-being.
In addition to her nursing responsibilities, Kelly is a devoted therapy dog handler and a key figure in BCSD's therapy dog program. Her efforts with Garvey, especially in supporting students across the district through times of grief, demonstrate her compassionate heart and her belief in the healing power of connection. These selfless actions speak volumes about Kelly’s unwavering dedication to the students and staff of BCSD. Kelly and Garvey truly embody care, strength, and the ability to lift spirits wherever they go.
Rachel Rodriguez
3rd Grade
Paul Norton Elementary
Rachel is an exceptional third-grade teacher at Paul Norton who goes above and beyond for her students and colleagues. She fosters a caring, inclusive classroom where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn. Known for her patience, empathy, and dedication, Rachel builds strong relationships and meets her students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.
Outside the classroom, Rachel is a positive role model and trusted support for fellow teachers, especially newer ones. Whether sharing ideas in PLCs or stepping in to help wherever needed, she’s a dependable team player whose passion and commitment make her a valued member of the Paul Norton and Bettendorf community.
Sara Husser
Career Center Paraeducator
Bettendorf High School
Sara has quickly become an essential and uplifting presence at BHS, stepping into her new role with remarkable initiative, compassion, and professionalism. From the start, she has shown dedication not only to her own responsibilities but also to the needs of the greater school community. Whether she’s ensuring student safety and well-being during off-campus experiences, filling in seamlessly in the health office, or supporting students through the Career Center, Sara brings warmth, clarity, and a can-do attitude that makes a real difference. Her communication with staff is consistently thoughtful, and her conscientious preparation for any task helps everything run more smoothly.
What truly sets Sara apart is her balance of kindness and high expectations. She holds students to real-world standards while supporting them with genuine care and encouragement, helping them build skills that will serve them long beyond high school. Her positive energy is contagious—lifting up colleagues, easing stress in busy moments, and always being ready to lend a hand where needed. With a clear vision for expanding student opportunities and a heart for teamwork, Sara exemplifies what it means to be student-centered and service-driven. We are incredibly lucky she chose to join the BHS team.
Katie McDermott
Paraeducator
Herbert Hoover Elementary
Katie McDermott is an extraordinary paraeducator whose unwavering dedication, empathy, and professionalism make her an invaluable part of the Hoover Elementary community. Every day, Katie shows up with a student-first mindset, offering personalized support, encouragement, and care that students respond to with joy and trust. She builds strong connections with those she works with, challenging each student to grow while providing the nurturing support they need. Whether she’s assisting in the classroom, working one-on-one, or helping students overcome daily challenges, Katie is a steady, positive force who helps create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment.
Katie’s impact extends far beyond her daily tasks. She communicates openly, collaborates actively with teachers and therapists, and helps shape plans tailored to individual student needs. Her dedication to continuous improvement and her commitment to the success of
all students is truly inspiring. Katie’s compassion, insight, and ability to recognize each student’s potential contribute significantly to their academic and emotional growth. We are beyond lucky to have Katie at Hoover—her presence enriches our school every single day, and her contributions are deeply appreciated.
Sara Mohler
Science
Bettendorf Middle School
Sara is an outstanding educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her students. Her dedication to creating a positive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment is evident in everything she does. Sara always puts students first.
What stands out most is how quickly and confidently she has stepped into her role. Rather than easing in slowly, Sara dove in headfirst, bringing energy, initiative, and a clear passion for helping all students succeed. Her commitment to making a difference is truly inspiring.
Wendy Saathoff
Behavioral Interventionist
Herbert Hoover Elementary
Wendy is the heart of Hoover’s support system—a steady, compassionate presence who responds quickly and thoughtfully to student needs. As our Behavior Interventionist, she brings a calm and collected approach to every situation, building strong, trusting relationships with students through patience, empathy, and genuine care. Her ability to de-escalate challenging moments while helping students feel seen and supported is a gift to our school community. Whether she’s guiding students through tough emotions or collaborating with staff on behavior plans, Wendy is always ready to serve with humility and heart.
Her influence reaches far beyond individual interactions. Wendy is a role model of patience, active listening, and mutual respect. She has inspired her colleagues to adopt a more empathetic, student-centered approach and continually models what it means to meet students where they are. Her commitment to helping each child succeed emotionally and behaviorally has made a lasting impact on our school culture. Simply put, our days are brighter and smoother because of Miss Wendy, and we are incredibly grateful to have her as part of our Hoover family.
Michele Sun
TLC Paraeducator
Mark Twain Elementary
Michele is a vital part of the Mark Twain team, known for her calm presence, empathy, and unwavering dedication to students and staff. She creates a safe, supportive space for students who need it most and is always ready to help wherever she’s needed. Her wisdom and compassion make her a trusted colleague and mentor.
As the leader of the TLC program, Michele has transformed it to reflect Mark Twain’s values, building strong bonds with students and helping them thrive. She’s constantly looking for ways to grow and improve, making a powerful impact every day. Mark Twain is truly better because of her.
Joey Trizzino
3rd Grade
Paul Norton Elementary
Joey has done an outstanding job supporting all students, especially those with unique challenges. He brings a positive attitude to every situation and is always willing to collaborate with the team to do what's best for each child. His students are welcomed back each day with a clean slate and a sense of belonging.
Joey holds his class to high expectations, and his students rise to meet them because they know he believes in them. His balance of fun, structure, and genuine care creates an environment where every student can thrive. This year, his impact was so powerful that his class started a petition for him to move up to 4th grade so they could have him again!
He takes pride not only in his classroom but in being a part of the Paul Norton team. We are grateful for his dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping students grow both academically and personally.
Erin Waldron-Smith
Teacher Librarian
Mark Twain Elementary
Erin “Mrs. WS” is a remarkable librarian whose dedication to students goes far beyond the pages of a book. Each day, she creates meaningful and engaging learning opportunities that spark a lifelong love of reading. From running a before-school book club to designing fun reading incentives, Erin’s creativity knows no bounds. She has brought in visiting authors to provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences and champions literacy in every corner of the school. Erin leads with grace, empathy, and an unwavering focus on what’s best for students.
Her impact extends beyond the library walls—Erin’s fearless innovation and tireless advocacy have elevated literacy across the school community. She sets high expectations and guides students with steadfast support. Through initiatives like Litapalooza, which celebrates student writing, she not only cultivates readers but also empowers young authors. Erin doesn't see barriers—only opportunities—and meets every challenge with determination and vision. Her passion, drive, and leadership make her an inspiration and a truly exceptional educator.
Sheala Wentink
Instructional Coach
Bettendorf Middle School
Sheala has been an incredible mentor and source of support, especially for first-year teachers. Her approachable, encouraging nature makes it easy to ask questions and seek guidance, and she always ensures others feel heard and supported. Even when she doesn’t have the answer, Sheala goes out of her way to find it. She juggles many roles with grace and care, making each person she connects with feel seen and valued. Her passion, patience, and unwavering support have made a lasting impact on those lucky enough to work with her.
Her leadership in the 5th to 6th grade transition and her efforts to create an inclusive, supportive middle school environment reflect her deep commitment to student success. Sheala’s love for special education and her drive to help others grow make her a role model and an inspiration. Her work reminds us all of the “why” behind what we do.