Heather Niman, Jakob Hansen and Erika Martinez are Elko County School District’s September STARS, or Staff and Teachers Achieving Results with Students, award recipients.
These staff members have demonstrated exceptional care for students, dedication to their work and a commitment to creating safe, welcoming and supportive school communities.
Heather Niman
Niman, a teacher at Spring Creek Elementary School, was nominated by parent Teresa Diehl.
Diehl shared how Niman helped her daughter adjust after moving into the district in the middle of the school year. “Ms. Niman welcomed her with warmth, patience, and genuine care, making her feel like she belonged from day one,” Diehl wrote.
Niman’s encouragement also helped her daughter develop confidence and a new outlook on school. “Through Ms. Niman’s encouragement, patience, and skillful instruction, EmerLynn began to see herself as capable and successful,” Diehl wrote. “More importantly, she developed something that cannot be measured by tests or grades: a genuine love of learning.”
Diehl said Niman’s impact reaches far beyond academics. “Because of Ms. Niman, my daughter is not only a stronger student, but a more confident and courageous person,” she wrote.
Jakob Hansen
Hansen, an ECSD bus driver, was nominated by parent Melissa Gerber.
Gerber recognized Hansen for his attentiveness and willingness to speak up when he encountered a situation that concerned him. Rather than dismissing the concern, Hansen reported it to his supervisor, allowing the family to address the situation.
“His willingness to speak up demonstrated an exceptional level of care, responsibility, and integrity,” Gerber wrote.
Gerber said Hansen’s actions gave her family comfort knowing someone was looking out for their child when they could not be there. “We are incredibly grateful for his attentiveness, courage, and commitment to protecting the children in his care,” she wrote.
Erika Martinez
Martinez, a custodian at Adobe Middle School, was nominated by ECSD employee Tina Turner.
Turner praised Martinez for going beyond her daily responsibilities to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for students and staff. “She takes pride in every detail, responds quickly when something needs attention, and always looks for ways to make our school a better place,” Turner wrote.
Martinez was also recognized for the work she does behind the scenes and her willingness to help whenever needed. “She approaches each day with kindness, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to our school community,” Turner wrote.
“Erika’s reliability, compassion, and dedication exemplify what it means to go above and beyond,” Turner wrote. “She deserves this recognition not only for the work she does, but for the heart and care she brings to our school every single day.”
This recognition is made possible through the generosity of LeeAnne’s Floral Designs, Orla Mining, Dos Amigos, Maverick Gaming, Sugar y Spice, The Star, Fratelli Pizza and the Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise.
Staff, students and community members are encouraged to nominate any school district employee who demonstrates exceptional commitment and performance in serving students. The nomination form is available on the district website.
