Congratulations to this month’s Embrace, Empower & Inspire Award winners:
Jeffery Feathers, Transition Specialist at Hilliard Bradley High School
Kristen Welch, Transition Specialist at Davidson High School
Corey Poe, Transition Specialist at Hilliard Darby High School
Kyle Reichle, Science Teacher at Hilliard Darby High School
Here is what those who nominated them had to say:
Jeffery Feathers:
“Jeff is a transformative force at Hilliard Bradley High School. His work as a Transitions Specialist goes far beyond the standard curriculum to provide a truly personalized experience for every student. By fostering collaboration with colleagues at Darby and Davidson, Jeff ensures student advocacy is a district-wide priority that puts individual needs first. His remarkable ability to build trust-based relationships with students, parents, and staff creates a supportive ecosystem that accelerates learning and empowers students to navigate their futures with confidence. Jeff embodies the spirit and values of the Hilliard Embrace, Empower, and Inspire Award.”
Corey Poe:
“Corey deserves this award for the unwavering support she provides to students, families, and staff. She bridges the gap between the classroom and the community by securing meaningful work experiences, fostering local business partnerships, and guiding families through post-graduation planning. Corey empowers her students with confidence and independence, ensuring that each individual has a clear, supported path toward a successful future.”
Kyle Reichle:
“Mr. Reichle goes above and beyond for all his students. Even after students move on from his class, he continues to check in, offer help, and support them. He makes his students feel comfortable, supported, and encouraged to do their best. Teaching is more than just a job to him—he genuinely wants his students to succeed and feel good about themselves.”
Kristen Welch:
“Kristen is the Transition Specialist at Davidson High School and a valuable member of our team. A Transition Specialist helps families create a plan to set students up for success after high school, and Kristen goes above and beyond every single day. She attends every IEP meeting to support families and intervention specialists, assists with transition pages, collects assessments, enters college board accommodations, and provides thoughtful suggestions for future planning.
Kristen takes the time to research opportunities, organize schedules, and ensure each student has a plan tailored to their unique needs. She works tirelessly with families, often outside of contract hours, spending breaks and summers meeting with families, touring programs, and ensuring students have a clear post-high school plan. Her attention to detail, compassion, and advocacy for students, families, and colleagues make her truly deserving of the Embrace, Empower, and Inspire Award. Her dedication to supporting the whole child, from Tolles and CATS programs to communication across buildings, does not go unnoticed. We are grateful to have her as a colleague and friend.”
These staff members go above and beyond the expectations of The Hilliard Way and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. If you know a staff member who goes above and beyond, consider nominating them for next month’s award by clicking HERE.
