december of the month WMS

Congratulations to the El Dorado School District Honorees of the Month from Washington Middle School!

Student of the month: Ashlyn Grimes. 

Ashlyn Grimes is the daughter of Tiffany McDaniel and Eric Grimes. She is in the 6th grade at WMS. 

Teacher Christina Turner shared, “Ashlynn never shies away from a challenge and always has a kind word for her classmates.  She has a keen mind and a kind heart.”

Math Facilitator Alissa Rynders, “Positive, caring, and hardworking are just a few of the words that you could use to describe Ashlynn.  Ashlynn greets teachers and classmates every day with a smile, being polite and caring is just a part of who she is.  If she sees a classmate who is upset she immediately wants to help.  She actively participates in class and always puts forth her best effort.  You can always count on Ashlynn to put you in a good mood.”

Principal, Bethanie Hale- Ashlyn has a smile that will light up any room.  She has a presence about her that exudes love and kindness.  She is a hardworking and dedicated student who goes above and beyond every single day.  When I think of a student who models the Washington Knights Code of ARMOR (Achievement, Respect, Motivation, On-task, and Resilience) it is Ashlyn Grimes.  She will truly be missed next year as she moves on to Barton Junior High.  

Ashlyn Grimes, Student of the Month

Teacher of the Month: Willow Waggoner.

Willow Waggoner is in her second year of teaching at WMS. She has a Bachelor of Science in Middle School Education with an emphasis in Math and Language Arts from Southern Arkansas University. 

Math Facilitator Alissa Rynders, “Mrs. Waggoner is an amazing teacher. She is constantly challenging her students to work harder and do more than they ever thought they could.  She does so much to encourage her students and colleagues on a daily basis. She has truly embraced the PLC process and works hard with her team to make sure that all of our students are getting what they need in the classroom.”

Megan Saunders Assistant Principal, “Ms. Waggoner is such a great asset to Washington Middle School. She holds her students to the highest expectations while providing them with grace and compassion. She works hard to get to know each student and treats them each as unique individuals highlighting their strengths whenever possible. She uses data to drive her teaching and collaborates well with her team. She has truly embraced the PLC process and shares unique and innovative ideas with her colleagues and students. Ms. Waggoner is passionate about her job and is definitely making a positive impact on everyone at WMS.”

Principal’s comments: Willow Waggoner is an exceptional teacher.  You would never know it by visiting her classroom that she has only been teaching for two years.  Willow has this way about her that allows her to connect with all of her students in an inspiring way.  She invests in their lives by going to their concerts, ball games, etc. and the students know that Ms. Waggoner loves them.  Not only does she have incredible classroom management, but she also has dove head first into the PLC process and is dedicated and determined to make sure all of her students grow academically.  I am so thankful to have Willow Waggoner at WMS and it wouldn’t be the same without her.  The only wish I have is that she truly knew how amazing she really is! 

Willow Waggoner, Teacher of the Month

*The Classified Employee of the Month, Denise Allgood, was unable to attend the December meeting and will be honored at the January meeting.