Kent County Community School

"To all of the Capital School District KCCS Staff,

During this Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate each of you for the incredible work you do every day. Not only have you all learned to pivot and persevere on extremely short notice, but you have done so with professionalism, resilience, and your heads held high. The work you all do each day is not easy, but together, as a team, you have continued to work as one for the success and well-being of our students.

Thank you for your hard work, dedication, determination, and flexibility. Your commitment to our students, families, and one another does not go unnoticed. Whether in the classroom, supporting behind the scenes, assisting students directly, or helping keep our school running smoothly, each of you plays an essential role in making KCCS a positive and successful learning community.

Your ability to adapt, persevere, and continue giving your best each day is truly appreciated. The care, patience, and passion you bring to your work make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.

I am grateful for all that you do and proud to work alongside such an outstanding team at KCCS.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all of our amazing KCCS staff, especially:
-Dr. Taylor Czyzewski
-Alba Jay
-Laura Luckenbach
-Emily Neubauer
-Julie Williams
-Nikita Young
-Rebecca Scott
-Jeff Gary
-Gabrielle Sacks
-Stephanie Poet
-Jessica Sage
-Jennifer Hickman
-Latoya Fenwick
-Jeff Gary
-Keith White
-Kelley Gerrity-Hickman
-Cassidy Barlow
-Serena Merchant
-Sharon Murray
-Alexus Brooks
-Dr. Rebecca Gill
-Myra Preston
-Kaitlynn D'Antonio
-Alexis Jones
-Daniel Drew
-Tameka Williams
-Maria Granitto
-Vanessa Cooper
-Diana Nall
-Lauren Garrrett
-Marissa Wilson
-Bobby Skripko
-Kent Robinson"

- Julie Jamerson

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Shoutout to the following staff at Capital School District's Kent County Community School from Sara Heinicke:

Rebecca Scott: "A KCCS treasure! Ms. Rebecca shows her passion of education every single day by presenting her students with fun, creative opportunities to learn and grow both socially and academically. She is always prepared which helps with consistency, knowing what is expected and how to help her students fully immerse in learning! Watching Ms. Rebecca get excited seeing her students achieve their goals lights up the room! Her welcoming glow makes students and staff alike enjoy being a part of her classroom! The students and staff at KCCS are fortunate to have Ms. Rebecca on their team!"

Sharon Murray: "Sharon is one of KCCS’s amazing Para Leads that is dedicated to helping her students achieve their optimal potential! She is reliable, communicative, and a collaborative team member. Her passion for teaching and watching her students learn shines through her actions and praises of her students’ successes. Sharon is 100% present and dedicated to working through even the toughest challenges because she believes in each one of her students. KCCS knows what a gem Ms. Sharon is and how fortunate we all are to have her a part of the team!"

Jennifer Hickman: "A teacher that represents the definition of sunshine! Ms. Jen is so full of life; she’s contagious to anyone within her proximity. Ms. Jen is KCCS’s Lead Para of the year, and just a few minutes in her presence, one would understand why! Ms. Jen is loving, compassionate, and consistent. Her students light up in her class beaming from Ms. Jen’s warmth. She creates an environment of certainty, consistency, creativity, and nurture. Her students’ overwhelming progress speak volumes to the blessings and benefits of having Ms. Jen on KCCS’s team!"

Taylor Czyzewski: "KCCS’s powerhouse teacher! Not only is Ms. Taylor KCCS’s teacher of the year, but she is the backbone of KCCS. Taylor never stops thinking about or doing for our students, staff and families. If something is needed, Ms. Taylor has it: on a shelf, in a box, in the hallway cabinet, tucked away in the speech office. You need it, Ms. Taylor will hand deliver it within a few minutes. She ensures the students have the most opportunities to learn through curriculum, activities, and supports. She is a mentor, a helping hand, a walking KCCS encyclopedia of knowledge, and a compassionate ear to listen whenever needed. KCCS is beyond blessed to have such a dedicated, compassionate teacher and instructional leader that truly values the pricelessness of the education we as a KCCS team get to provide for our beloved students!"

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Shoutout to Jessica Sage at Capital School District's Kent County Community School:

"Jessica is an incredible classroom lead who keeps everything running with organization and purpose. She always has the data to clearly show where her students are and uses it to drive thoughtful, meaningful instruction. Jessica promotes strong communication within her team and with families, ensuring everyone is aligned and supported. She is a true advocate for her students, always putting their needs first and working to help them succeed. What really sets Jessica apart is how she celebrates even the smallest wins, because she knows every single one counts. Thank you!" - Rebecca Gill

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Shoutout to Nikita Young-Slater at Capital School District's Kent County Community School:

"Nikita has had an incredible first year with our program! From day one, she has approached every student with a mindset of presuming competence, setting high expectations and truly believing in their potential. That belief shows in her work, she has done a phenomenal job engaging and moving her students, and they are making impressive academic gains. Her dedication, energy, and commitment to her students are already making a lasting impact, and we are so excited to have her on our team!

Nikita also brings a level of patience that makes her classroom a supportive and encouraging place for all learners. She is always willing to collaborate with her team, values and accepts feedback, and consistently looks for ways to grow in her practice. Her openness to learning and commitment to improvement make her not only a strong team member, but a truly great teacher."

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Shouout for Capital School District's Kent County Community School:

"Cassidy Barlow has stepped into the role of instructional lead whenever needed over the past several years at KCCS. She has a natural ability to connect with her students by matching their energy, humor, and silliness, creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable, happy, and excited to learn. Her genuine love for her students makes a lasting impact." -Julie Williams

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Delaware’s 2025–2028 Education Strategic Plan calls for strong teaching, stronger instructional support, and a focus on educator workforce growth and retention. Celebrating great teachers and bright beginnings is part of that work.

Shoutout for Stephanie Poet from Capital School District's Kent County Community School.

"She has been an instructional lead at KCCS for the past four years, making a lasting impact not only on the students in her classroom, but on students and staff throughout the entire building. She is always one of the first to step in and help, whether responding to crisis behavior calls or simply covering a coworker’s bathroom break without hesitation.

Stephanie’s positive, bubbly personality brings energy and joy to those around her, and her sense of humor and warmth make her someone both students and staff genuinely enjoy being around. Year after year, her students demonstrate tremendous growth across many areas of their lives, reflecting her dedication, skill, and commitment as an educator.

Stephanie’s support extends far beyond the school day. In addition to her work in the classroom, she provides homebound instruction, respite services, and volunteers with Embrace, consistently going above and beyond for the students and families she serves. It is clear through the relationships she has built that she is deeply valued not only by staff and students, but by parents as well." - Julie Williams

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Shoutout for Capital School District's Kent County Community School:

"Sharon Murray has served as an instructional lead with KCCS for the past year and a half, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication to her students and colleagues. She willingly stepped into one of the most challenging roles, working with students who exhibit some of the most complex behaviors, and has made a meaningful impact on their growth and success each and every day.

Sharon is always seeking opportunities to learn and grow professionally so she can better support the individual needs of her students. Her commitment to continuous learning and her passion for helping children succeed truly set her apart.

One of Sharon’s greatest strengths is her ability to build genuine relationships with her students. She takes the time to understand each child’s personality, strengths, and needs, forming meaningful connections that help her students feel comfortable and confident. She is a dependable team player, a positive influence within the school community, and someone who leads with both heart and professionalism. Sharon’s dedication and unwavering support make a lasting difference in the lives of her students and everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her." -Julie Williams

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.

Delaware’s 2025–2028 Education Strategic Plan calls for strong teaching, stronger instructional support, and a focus on educator workforce growth and retention. Celebrating great teachers and bright beginnings is part of that work.

Shoutout for Serena Merchant from Capital School District's Kent County Community School.

"I want to take a moment to recognize our amazing para lead Serena Merchant for the outstanding work you do every single day. In a setting that requires patience, flexibility, and resilience, you show up with a positive attitude and a heart for students. You go beyond expectations to ensure every child feels seen, supported, and valued. Your leadership, teamwork, and willingness to step in wherever needed make a huge difference in your classroom. You are truly a cornerstone of our program, and we appreciate all the ways you uplift our students and staff. Thank you for all you do!"

It’s National Teacher Appreciation, a chance to recognize the educators making a difference in our students’ lives every day.