Last week, Hemet Unified School District honored and recognized two employees from every school and the district offices, including two from Idyllwild School.
Middle School teacher Bob Leih was designated teacher of the year and Melissa Churchill, the health technician, was classified employee of the year for Idyllwild School. Leih also was recognized as the Middle School teacher of the year for the entire HUSD.
Idyllwild Principal Matt Kraemer introduced both members of his staff to the district board members, administration officials and dozens of others at the ceremony at the district office.
Kraemer praised Leih, not only for his profound teaching skills, but his willingness to organize and help manage the school’s outdoor education program, including raising funds so that each Middle School class (6-8) can go on a separate three-day field trip.
Kraemer stressed Leih’s devotion to the students when he wrote, “Bob will frequently give up his planning period to cover a PE class when our PE teacher has to ride down on the bus with one of our [Middle School] athletic teams for an away game.”
Churchill was honored for her work protecting student health and involvement throughout the day in various functions.
“She goes out of her way to lend a helping hand. She frequently helps the kindergarten students during their lunch period. She knows all the students and has bonded with many of their parents,” he added in a personal note.