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QCUSD celebrates February students, employees of the month

Newell Barney Junior High and Queen Creek Junior High were highlighted during this month's Queen Creek Unified School District honors for both students and employees.

February Students of the Month

  • Jillian Richardson, a student from Newell Barney Junior High, is one of the February Students of Month in QCUSD. "No matter what class Jillian is in, she is a hard worker, respectful and always willing to help. She personifies what it is to be a Buccaneer – she is kind, respectful and shows integrity in all she does." 
  • Kate Book, a Queen Creek Junior High student, is the other February Student of the Month in QCUSD. "Kate demonstrates so many positive and excelling qualities in a student and a good human being. She shows kindness every day by being available to help others when they are struggling with math. She motivates the class to perform better and learn from each other better. She is committed to her work, her grit to develop a deeper understanding, her willingness to help others and for her being a well-rounded individual."

February Employees of the Month

  • Melinda Homewood joined Newell Barney Junior High and jumped right into the world of junior high nursing. "She is a true professional and support for NBJHS students. She has done a fantastic job building relationships with our staff and students al while maintaining the confidentiality that is necessary in her position. NBJHS appreciates Ms. Homewood and she represents their motto 'Anchor Up.'" 
  • John Poirier is Newell Barney Junior High’s robotics coach. "He is dedicated to the robotics program and is a constant advocate for students’ success. Robotics is a great outlet for NBJHS students and without John’s leadership these students would not have this opportunity." 
  • Debra Palomo helps NBJHS in a myriad of ways. "She helps with athletic questions and student support questions. She is always pleasant to work with; she represents the Pillars of PBIS in QCUSD. She is kind, respectful and shows integrity. We are thankful for being able to work with her." 
  • Theresa Murtha started with NBJHS as a special education aide and eventually moved into the full-time special education teacher role. "She continues to work full time while taking classes at night to finish her teaching certificate. Theresa is an outstanding advocate for her students, a true professional and a constant force for good with her students." 
  • Kerry Morgan works with the SPED students at Queen Creek Junior High. "She accommodates their needs, keeps staff informed about student progress and making sure all students are included in class." 
  • Diana Lackey is the cafeteria manager for QCJHS and is an invaluable member of the QCJHS staff. "She is instrumental in not only serving food to the students but she always does it with a smile and kindness toward the students and staff. Her kitchen staff enjoy working with her and it shows in the breakfast and lunch they provide. In addition, Diana always has a positive attitude and truly strives to make QCJHS a better place to work and go to school."
  • Penelope Camp is the co-president of QCJHS’s PTSO, and she has gone above and beyond in getting items donated to the school. "With her assistance, QCJHS raised over $5,000 with our fundraiser. In addition, she has brought business partners to QCJHS. She never misses an opportunity to provide students with candy or cookies and she enjoys spoiling the staff with coffee truck visits, love carts, food and her infectious smile. Mrs. Camp is truly committed to the staff and students in QCUSD." 
  • Cory Nenaber exemplifies service, kindness, commitment and honesty. "He is invaluable when it comes to the success of Queen Creek Junior High. He is never too busy nor put out when we need assistance on campus. He has shown his commitment and service in so many ways this year. He has stepped in to assist with discipline, as needed, been a cheerleader for our sports teams, and been a true supporter when we had an emergency with a teacher’s health. Cory is consistently optimistic and a supporter of all things kids."