Three staff and one student recognized as Kindness Matters Award winners

Katie Dimmer, Alice Johnson, Diane Tyrell and Harper VanDonkelaar were all presented Kindness Matter Awards at May 1’s Board of Education Meeting for their dedication to making the community a better place.

Dimmer, a social worker at Commerce Elementary, shows unwavering kindness, empathy and compassion. She forms genuine, supportive relationships with students, staff and families, taking time to truly understand and connect with those she serves. Known for her attentive listening, thoughtful collaboration and tireless dedication, Miss Dimmer continually seeks out new ways to meet the evolving needs of the school community. Her ability to balance compassion with honesty allows her to guide others through difficult moments with encouragement and grace.

Johnson, Keith Elementary’s building secretary, is a true cornerstone of the Keith community, bringing both efficiency and warmth to everything she does. From meticulously managing attendance to stepping in with a smile during busy lunch hours in the cafeteria, she plays a vital role in keeping the building running smoothly. Her calm, caring nature puts students at ease, whether she’s helping them navigate the attendance process or offering a kind word during lunchtime. She knows each child by name, notices when someone needs a little extra support, and always takes the time to make them feel seen and valued. Her thoughtful presence reminds us that it’s often the small, everyday moments of kindness that leave the biggest impact.

Tyrell, who’s the principal secretary at Keith Elementary, radiates kindness, empathy and compassion in everything that she does. Each day, she goes far beyond the expectations of her role graciously answering phones and doors, assisting parents, supporting teachers and comforting students with genuine warmth. Whether she’s caring for a sick child, calming a student who’s lost a tooth or gently tending to a bloody nose, her nurturing presence brings a sense of calm and reassurance to everyone she encounters. Her unwavering dedication and heartfelt care for the Keith community reminds us all of the quiet power of compassion and how one person's kindness can brighten an entire building.

VanDonkelaar, a kindergartener at Oakley Park Elementary, was nominated by one of her fellow kindergarten classmates, Olivia and Olivia’s mother. Olivia often shares stories at home about VanDonkelaar’s thoughtful, caring nature and the many ways VanDonkelaar makes a difference in the lives of her classmates. Whether offering a comforting word, lending a helping hand or simply being a steady friend, VanDonkelaar’s actions embody the powerful truth that even our youngest students can make a profound and positive impact within their school community. VanDonkelaar’s teacher, Stephanie Knight, enthusiastically agrees that this nomination is well deserved. She describes VanDonkelaar as a natural leader among her peers inspiring others through her genuine kindness, patience and inclusivity. VanDonkelaar shows not only care for her peers each day, but also is a bright example for all of us.