Lafe Nelson Elementary School

😊

Belinda Britt named Rotary Teacher of Distinction for Lafe Nelson

Belinda has been a pillar of the LNS family. She doesn’t just teach music; she fosters a love for self-expression that changes how our students see themselves. Whether she is leading a performance or supporting a colleague, her dedication is palpable. She has a rare ability to elevate everyone around her, making us not just better educators, but better people.

She cultivates meaningful relationships with students and staff, creating a safe environment where individuals feel empowered to step outside their comfort zones. This trust has made her a primary resource on campus. Her consistently positive attitude and dedication to a supportive atmosphere are driving forces behind our campus culture..

Belinda exemplifies what it means to have Bulldog Pride at Lafe Nelson School. Her presence is a gift to our campus, and she truly defines what it means to be a teacher of distinction.

Reygina Trujillo named Paraprofessional of the Month
Lafe Nelson’s paraprofessional Reygina Trujillo (Gina) was named the Grand Canyon University (GCU) Paraprofessional of the Month for May.
Gina is a vital member of Lafe Nelson’s check in/check out team, with a specialized role as a PAWS Club Specialist. The goal of PAWS Club is to provide early positive intervention for those beginning to show signs of problem behavior and intervening to help them succeed. As a mentor, Gina provides consistent daily support to assigned students offering encouragement and setting a positive tone for the day. This is based on our school’s PBIS behavioral expectations: Be KIND, Be RESPONSIBLE, and Be SAFE. Gina’s role is crucial as they begin and end their days with a supportive adult. It helps to reduce problem behavior and empowers students to take ownership of their success.
Gina is also a dedicated special education paraprofessional in a self-contained classroom. As a veteran para and a leader among her peers, she excels at building relational capacity with the students she mentors. She is a trusted figure who creates a supportive environment where students feel safe and are able to thrive.
Gina is also a friend to her co-workers, she helps, cares for and loves those around her. We are so lucky to have Gina Trujillo at Lafe Nelson.

Valerie Sanchez Named Principal of the Month
Lafe Nelson Principal Valerie Sanchez was named the Grand Canyon University (GCU) Principal of the Month for April.

The GCU Principal of the Month awards are given to outstanding school leaders who demonstrate creativity and vision while implementing or supporting areas of focus including character education and innovations designed to increase student success.

Principal Sanchez is honored for her dedication to inspiring children to learn, grow and succeed and for going above and beyond to promote Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Capturing Kids Hearts (CKH) and endless learning and writing concepts at Lafe Nelson. Principal Sanchez has supported Lafe Nelson School to continuously improve in professional development opportunities, Unity and Conflict Resolutions. Through her leadership, Lafe Nelson has implemented CKH for 5 years, with ultimately achieving CKH National Showcase School Award. Also, PBIS Model school for 2 years, as well as PBIS Tier I, PBIS Tier II, PBIS Tier III Fidelity Awards with 4 years implementing and building the program from the ground up. She and her PBIS Team presented their journey and data at the IDEA Conference which had a positive impact on others who attended.

Throughout her 5 years as principal, she has created a positive environment, where teachers and staff at Lafe Nelson have felt supported and appreciated and excited to learn. Principal Sanchez has brought many fun aspects of celebration to the school culture including Bulldog Pride tickets & drawings, Quarterly Assemblies, Bulldog Pride Celebrations, Parent Nights, Bulldog Pride Awards, Pawsitive Paws Awards, Perfect Attendance Recognitions, and more. She even provides treats to the class or grade level that has the best overall attendance for the month. The school label improved from a C to a high B this past year under her leadership, highlighting the hard work of her and all staff members.

Valerie was recognized at a recent staff meeting in front of her peers by GCU and received a gift basket, plaque and gift card celebrating her efforts.

FREE Summer meals at SMS Cafeteria for school aged children/students!!

We're grateful for our Lafe Nelson Teachers and Staff. This Teacher Appreciation Week, let's show our appreciation for their tireless efforts and dedication.❤️

A newsletter was sent home with your child, this is a correction for this date.....