This year marked the beginning of a new tradition for Monett Schools. The first-ever Monett Schools Recognition Gala recognized teachers, staff, and partners who contribute to student success each day.

In the day-to-day life of a school district, things move quickly. There is always something to take care of, someone to support, and work that needs attention. With so much happening, the work across our buildings can at times feel like it’s being missed.

The Gala was created to slow that down and focus on our teachers and staff. 

Teachers and staff give so much of themselves each day, not just in what they do, but in how deeply they care. They show up ready, present, and willing to meet students where they are. They celebrate every success, walk through challenges alongside their students, and continue to believe in them, even on the hardest days.

This is exactly why this evening mattered.

Every detail of the evening was planned with care and intention, to show how much we appreciate our staff in a way that expressed our gratitude.

The Monett Schools Recognition Gala is a new tradition the district will carry forward each year, not because it is expected, but because it reflects who we are. It gives us an opportunity to pause, to say thank you, and to make space for the work that often happens quietly but means so much to our students and schools. The Gala will continue to bring us together to celebrate and to ensure that those who give so much to our students are seen, valued, and appreciated.

The Cubbies of the Year represent the very best of what it means to serve in Monett Schools. Each of these individuals was recognized throughout the year for the way they show up for students, support their colleagues, and contribute to a positive school environment. 

The impact they make is seen in the daily moments that keep our schools moving forward, helping create a culture where students feel supported and staff feel valued across the district.

We are grateful for their commitment and thankful for the role they play in shaping the experience of our students and staff.

The Recognition Gala introduced a new way of honoring our teachers and staff, with the goal of making the process clear and consistent across the district. This structure helps us celebrate the many individuals who make a difference each day, while also creating a pathway for district-level recognition.

At the first level, we recognize our Cubbies of the Year. These individuals are selected at each campus and represent staff members who consistently go above and beyond in their roles. They reflect the heart of our schools and the daily work that supports students and one another.

From the Cubbies of the Year group, a smaller number of individuals are selected to receive the Excellence Award. This recognition also serves as the Campus Teacher of the Year and Campus Staff of the Year. These individuals represent their buildings at the next level and are recognized for their continued impact, leadership, and dedication.

In addition to these recognitions, we also want to be intentional about honoring our district level staff. Throughout the year, as we recognize our Cubbies of the Year, we also select a District Staff Member of the Month. These individuals support the entire district, often working across multiple campuses and departments, which can make their contributions less visible within a single building. To help create a more balanced approach, the District Staff of the Year is selected from this group of monthly honorees. It gives us an opportunity to honor more individuals who play an important role in supporting our schools. 

From the Excellence Award recipients, the district then selects the Teacher of the Year and Staff of the Year. This is the highest level of recognition, honoring individuals whose work stands out across the entire district.

Amanda Cornell, Peyton Bowen, Kaylie Allen, Victoria Costley

Amanda Gautney, Garret Spencer, Shey Snodgrass, Pam Hemmerling

Lacy Creed, Shelby Blankenship, Keith Parris

Absent from Photo: Jennifer Hawkins

As we planned for the first Monett Schools Recognition Gala, we wanted to begin by honoring and recognizing the teachers and staff who have served our district for more than 20 years. These individuals have given so much of their time and energy to our schools, and it was important to take a moment to recognize that dedication. In the years ahead, we look forward to continuing this tradition by celebrating 20, 25, and 30-plus years of service.

Years of service represent more than time. They reflect relationships built, students supported, and a continued commitment to our schools. Throughout their time in Monett, these staff members have helped shape the culture of our district and support the work that happens each day. We are grateful for the years they have given and the impact they continue to make.

Melissa Brown, 20 years, Victoria Costley, 20 years, Leigh Lemaster, 20 Years, Concha Cecenas, 21 Years, Daphne Hensley, 21 Years, Jennifer Wallace, 22 Years, Maure Watson, 22 Years, Denise Deffendall, 23 Years

Amy Barker, 23 Years, Gale Boyd, 25 Years, Irene Cavazos, 25 Years, Teresa Huntress, 26 Years, Michael Calhoun, 26 Years, Justin Semerad, 27 Years 

Absent from years of service photo: Krista Doss, 20 Years, Megan Wormington, 20 Years, Amber Tinsley, 21 Years, Leslie Mareth, 22 Years, Misty Calhoun, 23 Years, Carrie Smith, 23 Years, Sabrina Horton, 24 Years, Amber Bledsoe, 24 Years, Heather Schmidly, 24 Years, Stacey Frieze, 24 Years, April Smith, 25 Years, Penny Smith, 26 Years, Shanon Lyman, 28 Years, Laverne Frazier, 29 Years

Terri Brooks has made a difference in the lives of our youngest learners. She shows up each day with patience, care, and a deep commitment to helping every child feel safe and ready to learn. Terri understands that early learners need more than academics. She helps them build confidence, independence, and a love for school from the very beginning.

She creates a classroom where children feel valued and supported as they take those important first steps in their education. Her steady presence has meant so much to our school community.

Terri’s impact will be felt for years to come, and she will be greatly missed.

Oh, chicken lips! What do we say about Denise?

She is an exceptional colleague, a true friend, and an amazing teammate in every sense of the word. We know we can always count on her—whether it’s sharing resources and her expertise or printing emergency sub plans. She never hesitates to step in and support those around her however she can. She cheers us on and is always willing to lend a listening ear. She has even instilled some of her “issues” into us, such as color coding, formatting, and organization.

Denise has made a powerful impact on many families in our district. Her students and families love her because they feel how deeply she cares, holding students to high expectations in all areas while making school fun.

Denise will be greatly missed at MIS as a teacher, colleague, and friend.

Coach Powell, you have made a profound impact on students throughout your time in education. Whether coaching, teaching special education, or leading in PE, you have always led with your heart. Your positive attitude and willingness to serve others have made a difference to so many. You created a space where kids feel supported, encouraged, and valued. They absolutely love coming to see you in PE and in the building. You are truly appreciated by students and staff alike. 

You have a way of reminding all of us to slow down and simply connect with kids. Whether it’s four square, basketball, or a few extra laps, those moments of playing, laughing, and being present are what students remember most. 

From leading your 8th grade team to a conference title to the memories you’ve created along the way, your impact will be felt for years to come. You will be greatly missed, and we appreciate all you have given to MES and our students.

Mr. Bell is the kind of educator every school hopes to have. He is dependable, student-centered, and deeply committed to growth. His team and his students know they can count on him, no matter the challenge. This past year, he has remained thoughtful, reflective, and intentional about improving his practice, always looking for ways to better serve students. That mindset has not only strengthened his classroom, but has also lifted our entire math team.

His impact will last, and our building will not feel the same without him. On a personal note, I am grateful for the influence he has had on me as an educator and for the difference he has made at MHS.

Gale has been one of those team players every leader wants to have. Willing to go above & beyond, student focused in every way, and keeps going no matter what comes her way. She stepped up to take on the kitchen manager role when she didn't think she could and she did wonderful with it. It has been an honor to work with her these last 6 years. She will be missed, but we are excited for her to get to rest and relax and not have to be concerned with getting in the kitchen by 6 am and wondering who of her crew will not be there today. Thanks Gale for all you have done for Monett Schools these past 25 years. Enjoy your retirement… And, yes, I am a little jealous.

Our business partners play an important role in the success of our schools, and the Recognition Gala was a special opportunity to pause and thank them. Throughout the year, their support shows up in ways that matter to our students and staff. 

Our business partners are not just supporters from a distance. They are present in our schools, invested in our students, and committed to helping create opportunities that might not otherwise be possible. Their willingness to give and to stay connected reflects a shared belief in the importance of education and in the future of our community. 

The Monett Way reminds us that strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Our business partners are part of that. They help strengthen our schools and support the work happening each day across our district. Their presence is felt in both the big moments and the quiet ones that keep our schools moving forward. 

We are extremely grateful for each of our business partners and the role they play in supporting Monett Schools.

Amanda Gautney is a teacher who leads with purpose and care, making a difference in the lives of her students. At the Monett High School, she puts students first, meeting them where they are and helping them move forward with confidence. Her work in credit recovery has opened doors for many students, giving them a second chance and a clear path toward graduation. Amanda builds strong relationships with her students. They know they are seen, valued, and supported, and they trust her to guide and encourage them.

Amanda is respected by her students, colleagues, and our school community. Students appreciate her not only for what she teaches, but for how she makes them feel and the direction she helps them find. Because of her guidance and support, many students will walk across the stage ready for what comes next. Her classroom reflects the Monett Way. Amanda represents the very best of our profession and is a deserving choice for Teacher of the Year.

Pam Hemmerling consistently goes above and beyond for both staff and students. She is always willing to jump in and help wherever needed, truly going the extra mile for our building. Pam shows up every day with a positive attitude and strong perseverance, setting a great example for those around her. Her team at MES is incredibly thankful for her support and the way she is always there when needed. Pam volunteers to attend MES events at night to be a part of the team and spend time with our students. She works hard to build meaningful, positive relationships with students, and her care for them is evident in everything she does. 

Her heart and dedication reflect a true belief in the Monett Way. We are incredibly fortunate to have Pam as part of our MES team, and this year her impact has made a tremendous difference in student growth.

Jesus Cecenas is someone our district can always count on. He brings knowledge and skill to every part of his work in maintenance, and he approaches each day ready to give his very best. Whether he is repairing, building, or taking on a new project, Jesus works with care and takes pride in what he does.

He is known for his strong work ethic, his craftsmanship, and his willingness to help wherever he is needed. No matter the task, he shows up with a positive attitude and a smile that brings joy to those around him. He builds strong relationships with staff and is appreciated by everyone he works with.

Jesus cares deeply about Monett. His connection to our schools runs deep, with his children graduating from Monett and his daughter, Gabby Nolasco, now serving students as a teacher at the Monett Elementary School. His work reflects the Monett Way, always putting people first. We are grateful for Jesus and the difference he makes across our district.

The role of a school board member is one of service, responsibility, and commitment to the entire school community. Behind every meeting and decision is time spent preparing, reviewing information, and thinking through what is best for students and the district as a whole. 

Serving on the board requires thoughtful decision-making, a willingness to navigate complex situations, and a commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult. Despite these demands, our board members continue to show up, stay engaged, and approach each conversation with purpose.

We are truly grateful for our board members and the time and energy they give to this role. Their service is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your leadership, your commitment, and for continuing to serve our students and community with purpose.

We thank Ken Gaspar for his willingness to step into a role that not everyone is comfortable taking on. As our emcee, he brought a calm and welcoming presence to the evening, helping everything feel natural and easy for those in attendance.

We are especially grateful for his willingness to show up and help whenever needed. That kind of support means more than words can express. It reflects the kind of person he is and the way he continues to give back to our schools and community.

Thank you, Ken, for your time and for the role you played in creating an evening that felt special for everyone present.

As the 2025–2026 school year comes to an end, we take a moment to thank each and every member of our district. Whether your work happens in the classroom, behind the scenes, or somewhere in between, it matters.

The Monett Way reminds us that people are at the center of everything we do, something that is seen each day in how our staff show up, support one another, and keep students at the heart of their work.

We are truly grateful for everyone who attended the Gala. As a first-time event, there were many unknowns, but the support, encouragement, and presence of our staff made the evening feel special. It was a reminder of the strong sense of connection across our district.

We are thankful for another year together and for all that has been accomplished along the way. There is much to be proud of, and it is because of the people who make up this district.

As we look ahead, we are excited to continue this new tradition and to keep finding ways to celebrate our staff. Thank you for the difference you make each day.