Three Clover Park School District (CPSD) employees were honored as Employees of the Year at a districtwide celebration on May 12. Since 1987, CPSD has honored exemplary employees in three categories: certificated, classified and administrative. Award recipients are chosen by an independent panel of Lakewood citizens.
Joe Guzzo, Dale Brewer and Kären Mauer-Smith were selected on May 12 as Clover Park School District’s Employees of the Year. (Left to right) Debbie LeBeau, superintendent; Joe Guzzo, Certificated Employee of the Year; Kären Mauer-Smith, Administrative Employee of the Year; Dale Brewer, Classified Employee of the Year; and Dr. Marty Schafer, board president.
2014 CPSD Employees of the Year are:
- Joe Guzzo, Certificated Employee of the Year;
- Dale Brewer, Classified Employee of the Year; and
- Kären Mauer-Smith, Administrative Employee of the Year.
Joe Guzzo, physical education teacher, Southgate Elementary
The needs of Southgate Elementary students are a constant priority for Joe. He has high expectations for himself just as he has high expectations for his students. Through his efforts, his students build confidence, persistence and a belief in themselves. He serves as their coach by pushing them to do their personal best and providing support when needed. Older students learn to win and lose graciously, support their classmates, persevere through challenging tasks and approach conflict with integrity.
Dale Brewer, supervisor of maintenance, maintenance and operations
The compassion and energy Dale has on the job is well known in and out of the district. The combination of high ethical standards and vast experience enables him to be an excellent mentor to other employees. He always goes the extra mile to make sure his customers’ needs are met. Principals appreciate him keeping up with the challenges of their aging schools. His outstanding customer service and leadership skills are regularly displayed through his daily interactions. He and his staff are always “at the ready” to respond to any building needs.
Kären Mauer-Smith, principal, Lakes High School
Kären is fiercely loyal to the students, staff and community of Lakes High School. She is authentic and enthusiastic in the way she celebrates the success of Lancer students and staff. Through her sincerity and kindness, Kären is approachable and accessible to all. Having a heart of integrity filled with compassion for her students and staff marks her as a special person who is liked and well-respected by all. Her strong belief in others is motivating and inspiring. One student wrote that she owes her success to Kären.