Orange Spot Recognition: Tracie Brewer & Kate VanTonne 🧡
Executive Director of Human Resources Andrea Wise would like to recognize Tracie Brewer and Kate VanTonne with an Orange Spot nomination for the gold-standard customer service they provided to a candidate throughout the interview process.
Their impact was so meaningful that the candidate took the time to personally thank Tracie and Kate and share an email about the experience. They described the interview process as organized, welcoming, and professional, adding: “I know that kind of experience does not happen by accident. It reflects the culture of the organization.”
That feedback speaks volumes. An exceptional employee experience begins before someone ever becomes an employee, and Saginaw ISD’s culture is reflected in the way people are welcomed, supported, and served from their very first interaction.
Thank you, Tracie and Kate, for creating such a positive and memorable candidate experience and for demonstrating what gold-standard customer service looks like in action! 🧡
#OrangeSpot #SaginawISD #OurStory
Executive Director of HR Andrea Wise would like to recognize Executive Coordinator Tracie Brewer with an Orange Spot Recognition! 🧡
Andrea shared, “Tracie brings exceptional professionalism, care, and dedication to Saginaw ISD each day. She is always willing to help, consistently approaches her work with a positive, professional attitude, and has an incredible ability to anticipate the needs of others. What truly stands out is how much she genuinely cares about people and Saginaw ISD. Her commitment to supporting others, attention to detail, and pride in her work are evident in everything she does.”
Tracie, your contributions make a difference, and Saginaw ISD is fortunate to have you!
🧡 What is an Orange Spot? Orange Spot is Saginaw ISD’s employee recognition program, giving staff the opportunity to recognize colleagues who go above and beyond. Know someone who deserves an Orange Spot? Submit a nomination and help shine a light on the great work happening across Saginaw ISD!
#OrangeSpot #SaginawISD #OurStory
Benefits Coordinator Kayla Coughlin would like to nominate HR Generalist Kelli Sundeck for the outstanding support she provides to the Human Resources team. Kelli is always willing to jump in, take on a challenge, and lend a hand wherever needed. Her positive attitude and willingness to step up have made a meaningful impact on the team.
Kelli also has a wonderful way of keeping department meetings light, engaging, and fun. Her dependability, team spirit, and positive energy are truly appreciated.
Thank you, Kelli, for always being someone the HR team can count on!
#OrangeSpot #SaginawISD #OutStory
Director of Instructional Services Christine Bolen would like to extend a huge thank you to Saginaw ISD Instructional Coach Stacy Darrow and Principal Emily Radewahn of Bridgeport’s Thomas White Elementary School for inviting her in to witness the fantastic literacy work happening in their school.
Christine shared: “It was wonderful to see students so deeply engaged in their reading and eagerly tackling new skills. Your team’s dedication and hard work are shining through in every classroom—keep up the amazing work!”
#SaginawISD #OurStory #OrangeSpot
A special thank you to the School to Work team, Jennifer Zimmerman-Schaller and Denise Wickham, for helping prepare Hemlock students for real-world opportunities.
Through resume building, interview practice, workplace soft skills, and confidence-building activities, they are helping Saginaw County students take important steps toward future success. We appreciate your dedication to supporting and empowering our students each day!
#SaginawISD #OurStory #TransitionsCenter
Millet Learning Center Teacher Amy Kohnert would like to nominate Shamiah Chandler for an Orange Frog Award.
Ms. Kohnert shares, “I am thrilled to nominate Shamiah Chandler for an Orange Frog Award. Shamiah is the definition of a true partner. No matter what the day throws at us, she is consistently there with a supportive hand and a positive outlook.
We make an incredible team, and her ability to stay calm and grounded when situations arise makes all the difference for both me and our students. Thank you, Shamiah, for being the ‘orange’ spark in our classroom!”
#SaginawISD #OurStory #OrangeSpot
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Erin Senkowski would like to nominate the entire Hartley team for an Orange Spot Recognition!
Dr. Senkowski shares, “The Hartley team has stepped up in a big way to navigate unexpected events and recent staffing challenges. Through strong collaboration and a willingness to do what’s needed, they have ensured programming continues without disruption.
I’d also like to recognize Program Director Liz Roxberry for her leadership in guiding the team and leading by example—never hesitating to step in at any time to support where needed. Because of these efforts, students from across Saginaw County and beyond continue to experience the signature Hartley programming we know and value.”
Thank you to the Hartley team for the way you’ve leaned in and supported one another.
#SaginawISD #OurStory #OrangeSpot
A huge shout-out to Saginaw ISD Bus Driver, Cynthia Schmidt! 🚌 When approached with a last-minute, outside-the-box request to help with a creative project, she didn't hesitate for a second. We appreciate your spontaneity and kindness, Cynthia! #OurStory #SaginawISD #AboveandBeyond #OrangeSpot
MaKeba joined Saginaw ISD in 2019 and begins each day with joy and gratitude. Known around the building for greeting everyone she passes, she says her positivity comes from within.
“Kindness is what I lead with because I want to be treated with kindness. I wouldn’t want to be treated rude, so I don’t treat people that way. I’m full of laughter and fun—and you’ve got to make the job fun.”
MaKeba takes pride in her work, cleaning the building with care and precision. “Every day, I try to roll the red carpet out for our guests. I want this building to be flawless when people walk in, and I take pride in that.”
Thank you, MaKeba, for the joy, care, and excellence you bring to Saginaw ISD each and every day. ✨
#SaginawISD #OurStory #OrangeSpot
Early Head Start Teacher Heather Weaver would like to nominate Lead Teacher Cameron Williams and Associate Teacher Joann Thompson for an Orange Frog Award in recognition of their outstanding mentorship during her time student teaching in their classroom. Their guidance, support, and willingness to share their knowledge made a lasting impact.
#SaginawISD #ClaytorPreschool #OurStory #OrangeSpot
Orange Spot nominations continue to roll in for Program Secretary Janis Turney of Millet Learning Center!
Brenna Polzin shared, “I don’t know what I would do without Janis! Since I started in the building, she has been a constant source of not just information, building norms, and helpful reminders, but also positivity, support, and friendly conversation. She’s grace under pressure and keeps this place running without breaking a sweat. We’re so lucky to have her! I’d love to nominate her for an Orange Frog—she has helped me so much.”
Keep up the amazing work, Janis! 👏
#SaginawISD #OrangeFrog #OurStory
Millet Learning Center Paraprofessional Janet Norris would like to nominate Program Secretary Janis Turney for an Orange Frog Nomination! Janet says, “Janis is a cornerstone of the Millet office. Known for her selfless nature and tireless work ethic, she consistently goes above and beyond to support her colleagues. Her positive impact on our office culture and operations is immeasurable, and we are deeply grateful for everything she does.”
We’re happy to have you, Janis!
#SaginawISD #OrangeFrog #OurStory 🐸🧡
Andrea Wise, Executive Director of Human Resources, would like to nominate Travis Culver, Custodian, for an Orange Spot nomination. Travis is one of our amazing custodians who exemplifies what it means to look out for others. He is attentive to safety and willing to jump in and help wherever needed, helping create a safer, more supportive environment for staff and students. Thank you Travis for thinking of others and being such a valued part of our team!
Millet Learning Center teacher Tammy Britton would like to nominate Katoya McCray for an Orange Spot Recognition! 🧡
Ms. Britton says, “Katoya has great attendance, will complete any task you ask her to do, and always has a positive attitude! Katoya has built great relationships with our students since starting in our classroom this August.”
Way to be Orange, Katoya! 🍊👏
#SaginawISD #OurStory #OrangeSpotRecognition
