Fort Thomas Independent Schools is gearing up to honor its brightest stars in education at the highly anticipated Nesties event. It is scheduled for April 11, 2024, from 5 to 9 pm, at the Fort Thomas Mess Hall, this celebration promises to be an evening filled with recognition and appreciation.
Among the esteemed honorees at the Nesties are the nominated recipients of the 2024 Teacher of the Year awards.
This year, three exceptional educators have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields:
3rd Grade Teacher at Johnson Elementary Aimee Shadwell
Shadwell has been named the Elementary Teacher of the Year. Coming from a family of educators, Shadwell knew what she wanted to do since she was in 2nd grade. She finds that it is important to connect with her students, not just academically, but also on a personal level. She is described as a problem solver and a safe space for students. Her approach as an educator for not only herself but, also her students is to never stop learning and growing.
When asked what she would tell aspiring teachers who are just starting their careers, she stated: “I would tell aspiring teachers that they are getting ready to enter the most rewarding profession. Despite the challenges they will face along the way, they will build positive relationships, foster curiosity and excitement for learning, and have the opportunity to support and nurture tomorrow’s leaders.”
8th Grade Science Teacher Kim Klein
Klein has been named Middle School Teacher of the Year. Klein became a teacher because she wanted more for herself and her future, finding strength in the public school system and the teachers who shaped her. Believing that circumstances don’t define a person, she aimed to pass on the support she received. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, quoting Vince Lombardi: “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.” She commits to continuous learning and growth, striving to chase perfection to attain excellence in all endeavors.
When asked what she would tell aspiring teachers who are just starting their careers, she stated: “My advice would be this, remember why you picked this career. On the daily there will be things that can happen that can lead you to lose sight of this. Don’t let those things cause you to forget, because that is what matters above all the other details, always.”
World History High School Teacher Kelly Booth
Booth has been named the High School Teacher of the Year. Booth had educators and coaches, being her parents, to help inspire her. They were big supporters when it came to anything she was involved in, such as school plays or volleyball tournaments. Other people who made her realize she wanted to be an educator were her teachers, Nina Kearns, Kim Grillot, and Mike Code. She doesn’t remember much of what they taught her, but she does remember the impact of how she was treated, which has inspired her on how to handle her classroom.
When asked what she would tell aspiring teachers who are just starting their careers, she stated: “Don’t be afraid to be yourself in your teaching space. Students value authenticity and are more likely to engage when you’ve created a safe place for them to learn with high expectations.”
In addition to honoring outstanding teachers, the Nesties also celebrate the valuable contributions of FTIS support staff members who play a vital role in creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. This year’s recipients of the FTIS Support Staff of the Year awards are:
Pre-K Instructional Assistant at Moyer Elementary Donna Rizzo
Rizzo has been named the Supporting Staff of the Year. Starting as a bus monitor transporting preschoolers in 2004, Rizzo realized what her calling truly was. She wanted to be in the classroom with the kids, who she refers to as “the littles”. When a position opened up in 2008, she applied and has been there ever since. She has such a compassionate and nurturing presence at Moyer Elementary which has earned her the admiration and gratitude of students, parents, and colleagues alike.
When asked about the reasoning for selecting Rizzo for this award, Moyer Elementary Principal, Dawn Laber stated: “She believes in teamwork and has taken on many roles within the preschool program. She comes with solutions to make things better and always puts the kids first…we are so lucky to have her at Moyer!”
Special Education Instructional Assistant at Woodfill Elementary Brooke Riesenbeck
Riesenbeck has been named the Supporting Staff of the Year. Her passion for working with children has inspired her profession, and she is humbled to have received a Nestie award. Her favorite moments are seeing students interact and working together as a team. She values respect and believes that no one cares about how much you know until they know how much you care. She believes that developing relationships is crucial for successful teaching.
When asked about the advice she would give aspiring teachers, she recalled advice that she was given by Rizzo, stating: “She told me that some days are harder than others, but it is always worth it! I think that advice from Ms. Donna is the best advice that I could pass on to someone.”
As the date of the Nesties draws near, anticipation is building within the FTIS community for an evening of celebration and recognition. The event promises to be a testament to the dedication, passion, and excellence that define Fort Thomas Independent Schools and its commitment to providing an exceptional education for all students.