The Eisenhower Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) announced the winners of its annual Five-Star Awards at a school assembly today. This award is given annually to one teacher and one support staff member at the school.

Mary Jo Vogt, a first-grade teacher at Eisenhower, was recognized as this year’s Five-Star Teacher for the dedication and passion she brings to the classroom. Her nominations recognize her praising and encouraging students, creating an amazing atmosphere of learning and being a positive role model for others. “She has her students in awe, sitting at the edge of their seats awaiting whatever she is getting ready to teach next,” said one nominator.

The school’s Five-Star Support Staff Member is Sharon Rockwell Dalton, a paraprofessional at Eisenhower. Her nominations recognize her for engaging students, always being inclusive and teaching students to problem-solve. “Each day she shows love, caring and support for EVERY student in the classroom,” said one nominator.

The Five-Star Awards are inspired by school namesake Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was a five-star general in eventually the 34th president of the United States. The award was initiated to recognize the positive contributions made by the staff. Selection for the award is based on a nomination process focused on Eisenhower’s school-wide focus to make the world a better place by acting responsibly, treating others fairly, showing respect and being good citizen.