The WESD is thrilled to announce the 2025 Lamp of Learning recipients! Once each year, the District recognizes the unique and exemplary contributions of special members of the WESD Family by honoring them with the Lamp of Learning Award. This award serves as a special opportunity to thank staff and community members for supporting the education of our students. It is also the highest recognition given in the District. This year, we celebrate 17 extraordinary people who represent the vision, mission and values of the WESD.

Congratulations to:

• Suzette Alexander, Moon Mountain Elementary School;
• Michelle Anderson, Sweetwater School;
• Keren Brown, John Jacobs Elementary School;
• Scott Butler, Cholla Middle School;
• Indira Frederking, Ironwood Elementary School;
• Tiffany Grass, Sahuaro Elementary School;
• Elizabeth Mitchell, Manzanita Elementary School;
• Lesley Pletnick, Desert View Elementary School;
• Elizabeth "Lizzie" Post, Royal Palm Middle School;
• Karina Ruiz de Diaz, Mountain View School;
• Mariah Sandell, Sweetwater School;
• Natalie Smith, Maryland School;
• Casey Stock, Tumbleweed Elementary School;
• Terri Weeks, Tumbleweed Elementary School;
• Tonja Williams, Moon Mountain Elementary School;
• Megan Zak, Mountain Sky Junior High School; and
• Mark Zehr, WESD Maintenance Department.

We are so grateful for each of these incredible individuals and look forward to celebrating them at the Lamp of Learning Awards Ceremony later this spring!