On Friday, May 10, Ste. Genevieve County R-II School District held its 34th Retirement and Recognition Banquet at the Ste. Genevieve Elks Lodge, an event honoring retirees and celebrating our staff members for their outstanding service for our students and our community.
The following awards were presented throughout the evening: Friend of Education, Employee of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Supervisor of the Year. Staff members who are retiring, as well as those who have served for 25 years, were recognized, along with each building’s Educator of the Year and staff members who have recently completed degree programs and earned awards.
Please see more about the award recipients and retirees below!
Friend of Education Award
As a district, we recognize that without the support and assistance of our community, we would not be able to provide a complete, well-rounded educational experience for our students. To show our appreciation to our community, we take time during this banquet to recognize organizations and individuals for their contributions and support.
Board of Education members Mr. Jim Kirchner and Mrs. Jamie Ballew presented the 2023-2024 Friend of Education award to Greg Pfaff.
Mr. Greg Pfaff is a substitute teacher for the school district. Teachers describe Mr. Pfaff as a beacon of joy walking through our school doors each day. His infectious smile lights up the hallways, and you can practically feel the positive energy radiating off him as he greets everyone with warmth and genuine interest. Mr. Pfaff doesn't just teach; he becomes a part of the class, immersing himself in every activity, whether it's getting down on the floor to build towers or running around on the playground. He calmly guides students through their challenges with a steady hand and a kind word. He doesn't just teach subjects; he teaches life lessons in empathy, compassion, and the joy of learning.
But what truly sets Mr. Pfaff apart is his unwavering dedication to our school community. In times of need, Mr. Pfaff is there, ready to step in with his trademark smile and can-do attitude. We are beyond appreciative for his positive impact on our schools, our students, our staff, and our culture.
Employee of the Year Award
Board of Education Secretary Mrs. Geralyn Diesel and Board of Education Member Mr. Josh Gettinger announced the 2023-2024 Employee of the Year award recipient as Brittany Gegg, administrative assistant for the district.
Mrs. Gegg’s exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication have made a profound impact since she joined our SG Family. Her willingness to lend a helping hand knows no bounds, and her friendly welcome to each person who enters our District Office embodies the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie of a true Ste. Gen Dragon. Whether it's assisting with unexpected projects or spearheading significant initiatives, Mrs. Gegg approaches every task with a calm, focused approach and unparalleled dedication.
But perhaps Mrs. Gegg's greatest gift is her kindness and compassion. In her interactions with colleagues, she creates a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Her ability to uplift others and foster a sense of belonging is truly commendable and is a testament to her outstanding character. Mrs. Gegg is more than deserving of this honor, and we are immensely grateful to have her as a part of our team.
Coach of the Year Award
Athletic Director Dr. Jeff Nix presented the 2023-2024 Coach of the Year award to Coach Becky Keim.
Coach Keim’s unwavering dedication, exemplary leadership, and passion for the game have significantly enhanced the success of our softball program. Through her exceptional work ethic, she has cultivated a platform that fosters teamwork, accountability, and integrity among her players. Coach Keim embodies the qualities of an ideal coach, demonstrating empathy, expertise, and a genuine commitment to the growth and well-being of her athletes. Her ability to connect with her players on a personal level and build camaraderie within the team has created a positive and uplifting environment where players thrive both on and off the field. Under her guidance, our softball team has achieved unprecedented success, securing back-to-back conference titles, marking an historic milestone in our school's athletic history. Becky Keim's impact goes beyond wins and losses; she has instilled a love for the game in her players and has earned the admiration and respect of all who are fortunate enough to be part of her program.
Supervisor of the Year
Board of Education President Mr. David Bova and Director of Student Services Dr. Jami Drury presented the 2023-2024 Supervisor of the Year award to Dr. John Boyd Jr., principal at Ste. Genevieve High School.
Dr. Boyd has been described by his teachers as the heart and soul of their school. His leadership embodies the very essence of what it means to be a compassionate and supportive supervisor. One of Dr. Boyd's most remarkable qualities is his innate ability to make everyone—students, staff, and families alike— feel seen and heard, creating a sense of belonging and community. Teachers know that they can turn to him for guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter the issue at hand. His calming demeanor and respectful approach set the tone for open dialogue and collaboration, making the school a welcoming haven for all.
Dr. Boyd's commitment to excellence is evident in his approach to supervision. Rather than focusing solely on areas of improvement, he celebrates our educators’ successes and offers constructive feedback to help others grow and thrive. His willingness to listen to ideas and embrace new initiatives reflects his dedication to making our high school a better place for every student, every day. He is fully dedicated to making SGHS a better place for students whether it be by providing new opportunities or by making them feel at home with their handprints on the walls and their very own SG shirt that is given to them when they enroll. We would like to thank Dr. Boyd for his tireless efforts, his unwavering support, and for personifying “loyal and true” every day.
25 Years Milestone
Each year, the district recognizes those staff members who have spent 25 years in their field for their perseverance and unyielding dedication. Superintendent Dr. Taylor and Board of Education Vice President Eric Basler recognized the three employees who reached this milestone this year:
Mrs. Stephanie Evelsizer, Third Grade, Ste. Genevieve Elementary
Mrs. Tammy Geile, First Grade Teacher at Ste. Genevieve Elementary
Mrs. Renee Yamnitz, Kindergarten Teacher at Ste. Genevieve Elementary
Teachers of the Year
The Teacher of the Year awards were presented:
Bloomsdale Elementary: Jennifer Kirchner, Third Grade Teacher
Mrs. Kirchner’s commitment to excellence is palpable, evident in her unwavering dedication to the success of each and every one of her students and her remarkable ability to create an inviting and supportive learning environment. With her easy-going demeanor and genuine care for her students, she fosters a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the classroom walls. Her flexibility knows no bounds; she adapts her teaching methods to meet the needs of every learner. Moreover, her wide-ranging teaching experience, coupled with her boundless enthusiasm for learning, has made her a respected mentor and role model for educators across the building. Mrs. Kirchner’s organizational skills, effective communication, and ability to inspire greatness in others make her a shining example of what it means to be an outstanding educator. Her positivity, openness to new ideas, and unwavering support make her a true asset to our school community.
Ste. Genevieve Elementary: Sara Roth, Second Grade Teacher
Mrs. Roth's enthusiasm for teaching extends far beyond the classroom walls; she can often be found laboring tirelessly during the summer, weekends, and even holidays, ensuring that her students receive nothing but the best. For Mrs. Roth, teaching is not merely a job but a passion—a work of the heart. Known for her boundless energy and creativity, Mrs. Roth transforms her classroom into a warm and inviting space, where students feel valued and at home. From whimsical decorations to personalized nicknames, such as Maxwell House and Austin Powers, she fosters lasting connections with her students. Mrs. Roth's genuine care and consideration shine through in every aspect of her teaching, creating not just educational experiences, but cherished memories. It's no surprise that when her students look back on their elementary years, they will fondly remember the impact of their second-grade teacher, Mrs. Sara Roth.
Ste. Genevieve Middle School: Amy Meyer, Counselor
Whether it's offering a listening ear, providing invaluable guidance, or advocating tirelessly on behalf of her students, Mrs. Meyer's unwavering commitment to their well-being knows no bounds. She is a great example of the effect even the smallest tokens—a snack, a fresh pencil, or a kind word—can have when offered with love and compassion. Mrs. Meyer possesses a rare gift for connecting with students and building trust with them, creating an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, fears, and dreams. Through her empathetic listening and genuine care, Amy fosters meaningful relationships that empower students to navigate the challenges they face and reach their full potential. But Mrs. Meyer's impact extends far beyond the walls of her office. She is a true community builder, collaborating with colleagues, parents, and community partners to create a support network that uplifts and empowers everyone around her. Her resourcefulness knows no limit, and she never hesitates to seek out innovative solutions to address the diverse needs of our school community. Her constant persistence to be her best and meet our kids exactly where they are is a true testament to her strong dedication to her craft.
Ste. Genevieve High School: Cody Schwent, Math Teacher
Through his unwavering commitment, Mr. Schwent has demonstrated what it truly means to be Loyal and True, fostering a culture of excellence in education. His care for students' well-being, both academically and emotionally, sets him apart. His ability to offer insightful advice and different perspectives helps to guide students through challenges, and he strives to create a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged. Despite any initial reluctance towards his subject, Mr. Schwent's class becomes a favorite for many, thanks to his unwavering support and willingness to help. His commitment goes beyond the classroom; he's a master relationship builder, ensuring every student feels valued and supported. Leading our Mathletes to remarkable success, his dedication shines brightly, evident in their outstanding performance at the SEMO Math Competition. Mr. Schwent exemplifies what it means to be a true dragon, sharing his passion for our students' success and leaving an indelible mark on all who have the privilege of learning from him.
Retirees
This year, we celebrated and recognized 11 retirees. These cherished Ste. Genevieve County R-II family members are listed below.
2023-2024 Retirees:
Stacy Bell, Fourth Grade Teacher at Bloomsdale Elementary
Shelly Dallas, Secretary at Ste. Genevieve High School
Dean Gamache, Custodian at Ste. Genevieve Middle School
JoAnn Grein, STARS Teacher Aide at Ste. Genevieve High School
Michelle Grigaitis, Title I Aide at Bloomsdale Elementary
Stephanie Kuenzel, Title I Aide at Ste. Genevieve Elementary
Nikki Lappe, Process Coordinator at Ste. Genevieve Middle School and Ste. Genevieve High School
Marcia Nelson, Kindergarten Teacher at Bloomsdale Elementary
Dr. Rhett Oldham, Social Studies Teacher at Ste. Genevieve Middle School
Michele Pellikan, Co-taught and Program Special Education Teacher in Reading and English-Language Arts at Ste. Genevieve Middle School
Lance Reed, Maintenance Employee for SG R-II
Nine retirees were able to attend the event.
Stacy Bell, 30 Years of Service
During her time with SG R-II, Mrs. Bell taught second grade at Ste. Genevieve Elementary for one year before moving to Bloomsdale Elementary to teach third grade for the following six years. She then moved to fourth grade, where she stayed for 23 years. Her retirement plans include having more time to spend on her current hobbies, traveling more and possibly substitute teaching.
Shelly Dallas, 31 Years of Service
During her 31 years as a part of the SG R-II family, Mrs. Dallas served as high school registrar and then elementary secretary before taking the high school secretary positions, a role she has held for the majority of her tenure. Looking toward retirement, Mrs. Dallas plans to take a few months off and then find a part-time job during the week. She will spend more time with her awesome husband, Danny, their wonderful kids and grandkids, their parents and other family members and friends.
Dean Gamache, 24 Years of Service
JoAnn Grein, 11 Years of Service
During her 11 years as a part of the SG R-II family, Mrs. Grein worked with students in the STARS program to understand and complete their lessons, assisted the teachers and helped keep the room organized. She also managed the clothing closet: sorting, laundering and organizing donated clothing and helped students who were in need of clothing or personal items. Mrs. Grein’s retirement plans include spending time traveling, quilting, crafting, gardening and enjoying the grandkids— just doing whatever she wants, whenever she wants!
Michelle Grigaitis, 8 Years of Service
During her tenure, Mrs. Grigaitis strived to form connections with students, especially those who were struggling. While she has eight years of service as an SG R-II employee, she also spent more than 10 years as a substitute teacher! In retirement, Mrs. Grigaitis plans to enjoy a little me time and have more time to spend with her mom for her remaining years.
Stephanie Kuenzel, 16 Years of Service
During her 16 years as a part of the SG R-II family, Mrs. Kuenzel was an aide at Ste. Genevieve Middle School for 10 years and then an aide in Early Childhood for one year before holding a Title I Aide position at Ste. Genevieve Elementary, a role she has held for the past five years. In retirement, Mrs. Kuenzel plans to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Nikki Lappe, 22 Years of Service
Mrs. Lappe started out teaching special education at SGMS for five years, before heading to Farmington to teach 6th grade reading and science for one year. She then returned to SG R-II to teach special education at SGHS before becoming a process coordinator in 2021. In retirement, Mrs. Lappe plans on getting back into focusing on her real estate career part-time. She also plans to waitress and substitute teach.
Marcia Nelson, 34.8 Years of Service
Mrs. Nelson has been with Ste. Genevieve County R-II for nearly 35 years, including 29 years teaching and about 6 years as an administrative assistant at District Office. In retirement, Mrs. Nelson plans to travel more (including trips to Michigan), play golf, volunteer, garden and make special memories with friends, family and her grandkids, of course. As a nature lover, her goal is to visit all the national parks. She will probably substitute teach some, too, in her spare time.
Dr. Rhett Oldham, 10 Years of Service
Dr. Oldham has been with Ste. Genevieve County R-II for 10 years. He worked several years at other school districts, for a total of 29 years of serving students. Dr. Oldham’s retirement plans include jumping right back into education — in August, he will begin his new position with DESE as the Director of Social Studies Curriculum. He is looking forward to this new adventure, but he still plans to make time to travel to new places.
Michele Pellikan, 9 Years of Service
Mrs. Pellikan has been with Ste. Genevieve County R-II for 9 years. She worked 27 years at another school district, for a total of 36 years of serving students. Along with her position as a co-teacher and program special education teacher, she taught Study Skills classes when needed, and worked Crosswalk Duty and Morning Gym Duty. In retirement, Mrs. Pellikan is excited about not doing paperwork in the evenings and on the weekends and instead snuggling and playing with her grandkids and spending time with her family.
Lance Reed, 14 Years of Service
Mr. Reed served in the Maintenance Department for 14 years before retiring earlier this school year. In retirement, he now has more time for camping, fishing, hunting, traveling and spending time with family and the grandkids.
Degrees, Awards & Other Achievements
The following staff members were recognized for earning degrees, awards and other achievements throughout the school year:
Anna Brown — Elementary Math Specialist Certification
Kendal Dobbs — Master of Education in Professional Teaching
Dr. Jami Drury — Doctorate of Educational Leadership
Laura Gegg — Elementary Math Specialist Certification
Ashley Gettinger — Elementary Math Specialist Certification
Tyne Huck — Master of Science in Education - Special Education/ Deaf & Hard of Hearing; Grad Certification: Education of Deaf & Hard of Hearing; Grad Certification: Deaf: Instruction, Auditory Development
Audra Kingery — Education Specialist in Counseling
Jaclyn Oechsner — Elementary Math Specialist Certification
Dr. Rhett Oldham — Ste. Genevieve Chamber of Commerce's Centennial Legacy Mentor Award; 2024 SGMS National Junior Honor Society Teacher of Honor
Crystal Roth — School Business Specialist Certification
Tyson Roth — Masters of Arts - Educational Leadership; 2023 Dr. C.P. Gause SEMO Education Leadership Award
Dustin Schnable — Educational Administration Specialist Certification
Sara Steffan — Master of Education in Special Education
Dr. Stephanie Sulser — Doctorate of Leadership in Teaching and Learning
Jennifer Sutton — Educational Specialist in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum - Emphasis in Elementary Mathematics; Elementary Math Specialist Certification
Bre Uzzell — Fulbright-Hays Teaching Fellowship in Morocco; Foreign Language Association of Missouri (FLAM) Spotlight Teacher
Theoren Viox — Missouri Milken Educators 2023 Missouri Teacher Leaders of Tomorrow
Sara Vogt — National Board Certified School Nurse
Rachel Wilson — Elementary Math Specialist Certification
Ste. Genevieve County R-II would like to congratulate all of these recipients and retirees. We would also like to thank the Ste. Genevieve County R-II family (students, parents, employees and community members) for a wonderful school year.
We would like to share our appreciation to everyone who played a part in making this event a success. This banquet could not have been possible without our organized event coordinators Mrs. Brittany Gegg and Mrs. Erin Jokerst. This event takes an incredible amount of time, meticulous planning, and attention to detail, and they are dedicated to making sure all attendees feel welcome and appreciated. In addition, thank you to all who assisted them in decorating and planning the event, including Chrissy Gettinger, Crystal Roth, Mrs. Shelley Dallas and the following students who helped set up and decorate the hall for this event: Hannah Ahrens, Karlie Basler, Shay Coleman, Stella Cox, Savannah DeRousse, Lillian Holman, Ava Huber, and Lexi Warren.
We would like to thank the following organizations and individuals for their part in the event: the Ste. Genevieve Elks Lodge and Trisha Basler for hosting our event in their venue; Eleven Eleven Catering for providing the wonderful meal; Caitlin Gray and Becky Schenck for catering the fantastic desserts; Streamline for providing the delightful musical entertainment; Mr. Jason Bauman for delivering the invocation; and John and Bailey Otto for photographing the event.