Southeast Employee Recognition for 2024-2025

Posted on May 29, 2025 by DeAnn Hamblin in District, News

CHEROKEE – On May 14, 2025, numerous USD 247 Southeast staff members, special guests, and guests of retirees enjoyed a wonderful meal, including some delicious cookies and cupcakes! After dining, many staff members were recognized.

Years of Service Awards

5 Years: Paris Vratil

10 Years: Dr. Brad Miner, Jeanie Grotheer, Connie Kimzey, and Bruce Washington.

L to R: Connie Kimzey and Dr. Brad Miner
(Not pictured: Jeanie Grotheer and Bruce Washington)

15 Years: Cathy Strukel and Stephanie Schmidt

**L to R: Cathy Strukel and Dr. Brad Miner**

20 Years: Jason Wilderman and Carol Denham

**L to R: Carol Denham and Dr. Brad Miner**

25 Years: Karla Williams

L to R: Karla Williams and Dr. Brad Miner

30 Years: Gary Leiker

40 Years: Joyce Jacobs

Perfect Attendance Award: Jacob Dermott, Derek Sanders, Bruce Washington, Wendy Winter, and Joyce Jacobs

L to R: Jacob Dermott, Joyce Jacobs, Wendy Winter, and Dr. Brad Miner
(Not pictured: Derek Sanders and Bruce Washington)

KU Award: Debra Leslie
This award honors colleagues who have served as a teacher of youth for 25 years.

Special Recognition

“Success Through Excellence: Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day! I want to recognize several individuals who played a vital role in helping our district live out this vision. Some are compensated for their work, while others generously volunteer their time and talents. Because they are not full-time employees and present every day, they don’t always get to participate in recognitions that happen throughout the year and their contributions can sometimes go unnoticed — but their impact is significant. Without their support, we would undoubtedly feel the difference. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to these individuals. Your consistent dedication, and willingness to step in and help, makes a real difference in the success of our students. Thank you for all that you do.” – Dr. Brad Miner

**L to R: Audrey Dietz and Dr. Brad Miner**

Not pictured: Luke Witt, Mike Hamblin, Michelle Dayton, Jerry Alexander, Becky Martin, Amy Hewitt, Nick Cheney Sr., Nick Cheney Jr., Gaye Clark, and Karlena Tompkins.

Classified Customer Service Award
Any employee (certified or classified) can nominate any classified employee for this award. This year’s recipients are Jason Gregory and Tina Westervelt.

L to R: Jason Gregory and Dr. Brad Miner
(Not pictured: Tina Westervelt)

Retirements
There were three retirements this year: Cathy Strukel – 15 years, Rita Mitchell – 16 years, and Joyce Jacobs – 40 years, which warranted a standing ovation! All will be greatly missed, and we wish them the very best in their retirement!