Unsung Heroes
2025 Unsung Heroes Celebrated
The Unsung Hero tradition began at VCS more than twenty years ago to honor employees that go above and beyond their regular job duties. Honorees represent five categories: Transportation, Teacher Aides, Teacher Assistants, Clerical, Food Services and Building and Grounds.
Transportation: Tina Laborde
Tina goes above and beyond her job as Dispatcher for the Transportation Department. She consistently helps the entire staff with any questions or problems at any time. Tina never acts smug or smarter than anyone else. She always makes you feel like you’re the most important person when she’s talking with you and to our parents. She truly excels at her job, and always has a calm demeanor. This job title is not for the weak, and Tina is a huge example of strength and grace under pressure. She's not only the transportation dispatcher, but also drives a bus route. She does it all and is so appreciated at the bus garage.
Teacher Aide: Deb Jacoby
The Primary School would be lost without Deb Jacoby! Deb is so dedicated and such a hard worker that even when she was injured, she came to work while on a scooter and then on crutches! Even during a tough time, Deb showed up and gave 100%. Nothing can keep her down! She wears so many hats in the Primary Building and never complains while doing it. She's covered for other aides, teachers, the two building secretaries, and the nurse's secretary. She covers lunch breaks in the health office and main office, covers the lunchroom, even stepping up to help at the attendance desk. The list goes on and on.
Food Services: Meghan Andol
Meghan's performance is phenomenal. She continually seeks to improve professionally and has been a tremendous pillar of support for the food service department. She is the glue when it is needed the most. Meghan continually goes above and beyond her job responsibilities to ensure that every cafeteria in every building has everything they need. She makes sure students are fed nutritious meals by distributing information to either the cafeteria managers or the nurses, regarding students who are in need of special dietary accommodations. If parents ever have any questions or concerns, Meghan always responds with a professional and positive attitude.
Buildings and Grounds: Allen Brown
Allen is always smiling, goes out of his way to make sure the classrooms are clean and repairs whatever is broken without asking twice because he truly is compassionate about making sure the children and staff are safe! He goes above and beyond for the teachers so we can provide the best education possible for our students. Allen is the sunshine for so many of the Primary School staff because of his endearing integrity and his kindness towards all of us! When Allen is absent (which is very rare), you know it and he is missed. Because of Allen, the VPS Staff shines more brightly!
Clerical: Darlene Guck
Darlene is the first person students encounter when they need to go to the Junior High Counseling Office. She always remembers students' names and greets them warmly, helping them feel safe and welcome in the office. She notices when a student appears upset or anxious and discreetly checks in or notifies a counselor for immediate support. Darlene is someone who consistently makes a positive impact behind the scenes without seeking recognition or praise, going above and beyond supporting others, solving problems, and improving our school community. She strengthens the foundation of our school each and every day.
Teacher Assistant: Alexa Schreiber
When it comes to excellence in the role of Teacher Assistant, Alexa exemplifies everything this award stands for — and more. Alexa is the force that keeps everything — and everyone together. It’s almost like she has a sixth sense for knowing what a student or teacher needs before the words are even spoken. Whether a student is struggling emotionally or a lesson needs adapting on the fly, Alexa is there, already in motion, solving problems before they escalate. Her personal impact is profound. Her presence makes the classroom feel more supported, more structured, and more nurturing. Teachers trust her completely, and students thrive under her attention and encouragement.