Westlake HS EANESpiration Winners, 2024
Educational Impact
Those who display leadership and commitment to the district by making a positive, noticeable and significant impact.
Alan Abbe, Latin Teacher & Sponsor
Alan is a creative and caring educator of the highest caliber. Every year, he helps kids discover their strengths and leadership potential as student leaders in the Texas State Junior Classical League. This year, Mr. Abbe and his son, Kendan, hosted a wonderful Area F Convention at Westlake HS. They planned the event for a year, made the program; arranged for and distributed catering to attendees and volunteers; coordinated WHS volunteers as well as teachers and parents from guest schools; and hosted 400 student competitors in artistic, performance, athletic, and academic competitions and activities over a two-day event.
All 70 Westlake kids came away from the event with at least one award as well as a renewed vigor in their pursuit of competition and in their studies. Because of Alan’s work, kids from all over came together on a weekend for a Latin competition and left enthusiastic for the next level of competition, excited to learn more in class and beyond.
Samantha Kellog, Teaching Assistant
Sam came on the life skills team mid year and even though we have bounced her around endlessly, she has shown grace, flexibility, and hard work for our students EVERY day! Even on the hardest of days, Sam does her job without question. Samantha is someone that the life skills team can count on to put her all into supporting our students. She is always the first person to jump into a situation and help out. Above all else her commitment to the students is commendable and she makes WHS a better place to work. She’s kind and navigates a huge team of diverse people, personalities and students. She’s such an incredible person to be around. She is a true teammate and we are so lucky to have her at WHS.
Sara Olevitch Teaching Assistant
Sara Olevitch provides exceptional care to all students by making sure their needs are met to the best of her ability. She dedicates her personal time to several students and is the first to volunteer for any after school or extracurricular activities. Sara goes above and beyond by actually participating in the activity with the student, rather than just attending the event. She takes the time to get to know the kids and listen to them in order to help with their individualized needs. Overall, she does way more than what is required of her position and all the students love her!
Allison Scacco, English Teacher
Allison has worked in our district for over a decade in multiple roles. Now, she serves as an English teacher for students at the TLC. Whatever role she has taken in our district, she always commits herself completely and serves her students with passion and energy. She has countless students who have benefitted from her guidance at WHS. Allison is a supportive colleague, a passionate educator, and a dedicated staff member at Eanes ISD. Her service to our district for the past decade has helped create a better place for students, colleagues, and the whole community. She is a true inspiration to those around her.
Joshua Stevens, Science Teacher
Josh is one of those teachers that notices kids. He always sees the whole child and has their best interests in mind. You can count on him when a student needs a little grace, extra attention or just extra eyes on them. Josh is that teacher that connects with students and provides a safe place for students so all students can learn. This type of impact on a student's life is seriously life changing. It means the world for many kids. It is heartening to know when a student with an issue has Josh as a teacher, they will be noticed, cared for and provided connection.
Kaysey Thompson, Color Guard Director
Kaysey Thompson is a massive part of the success of the band program and has elevated the color guard program as a national contender. The culture she has been able to build in 3 short years is nothing short of astounding, and the proof is in the program doubling in a short time and in the numerous accolades, including State Championships and two top-10 finishes at World Championships. She also spearheaded the creation of middle school classes at both West Ridge and Hill Country middle schools, preparing students for the strong high school program. The most rewarding and impactful way Kaysey influences the program is how she is able to take any student and help them find success. Students who may not find success in other programs continually achieve and feel like rock stars under her wing. She elevates every student. She is a students-first teacher whose selflessness, commitment to excellence and work ethic go far beyond the call of duty. She makes an educational impact every day in the lives of students here at Westlake HS.
Heroes
Those who perform an outstanding achievement that brings prestige to Eanes ISD, or do something that goes above and beyond the call of duty.
Brynn Boston, Special Education Teacher
Brynn is dedicated, knowledgeable, flexible, and an amazing colleague. She is a phenomenal teacher, understanding each of her students' unique and changing needs; she excels in providing them with their curriculum as well as a fun and engaging environment to learn in. When you walk into her classroom, everyone is having a blast and is eager to learn! She is also a rockstar at ARDS - keeping them on topic, precise, and welcoming. She is beyond deserving of the Heroes Award. She truly exemplifies prestige in Eanes.
Brooke Anderson & Katie Bryant, School-Based Therapists
Katie and Brooke have shown outstanding leadership in organizing and implementing Suicide Prevention Week. Through their proactive approach, Katie and Brooke have raised awareness about the importance of mental health and suicide prevention, fostering a culture of support and understanding within our school community.
Their most significant contribution is their ability to connect with students and staff on a personal level, providing invaluable support and guidance to those in need. Through their empathy and compassion, these two have created a safe and welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and support during difficult times. By engaging students, teachers, parents, and administrators in meaningful conversations and activities, they helped break down stigmas surrounding mental health and promote open dialogue about suicide prevention.
And, they provide ongoing support and resources to students and staff throughout the year through individual counseling sessions, group interventions, and educational workshops. Their pioneering efforts in establishing Suicide Prevention Week have had a profound impact on the lives of our students and staff, and they are truly deserving of recognition for their outstanding dedication and service.
Diane Dealy, Executive Assistant
You will never meet a woman who works harder for WHS students, staff, parents and Administration than Diane Dealy! This woman throws her entire being into everything she does! She has a smile and a listening ear for anyone who enters her office which usually means long hours for her and makes her the last one to leave most evenings because she never turns anyone away who needs a friend. She is constantly planning Student Appreciation Week, Staff Bingo, New Teacher Luncheons or fielding 1,001 questions that only Diane knows the answers! She has a heart of gold or rather "red, white and blue!" Westlake High School is such a better place with Diane Dealy!
Michelle Derr, Health Science Teacher
Michelle is an extraordinary educator whose dedication knows no bounds. With an unwavering commitment to her students' well-being and success, she embodies the epitome of excellence in teaching. She works with our students for the HOSA organization and helps with fundraisers to support students. Her dedication extends far beyond the traditional duties. Michelle attends many of the school functions and supports students with their extracurricular activities. To Michelle, teaching is not just a job...it is an opportunity to make a difference in all of the lives around her.
Amity Garwood, Thessaly Startzell & Jennifer Ward, Parent Volunteers
These ladies have taken such good care of staff this year! We appreciate the effort and planning it takes to provide the staff with meals and snacks - always at the times we need it most. Their thoughtfulness and attention to details are incredibly appreciated. They have also been instrumental in providing timely discussions for our students and families, including suicide awareness, mental health and academic achievement stressors. All of this while beautifying our campus with outdoor gathering spaces. And as one of the nominators praised, thank you to these ladies, for that bag of popcorn in the afternoon is a lifesaver!
Susan Grombacher, Spanish Teacher
Susan is an exceptional teacher, always looking to improve student's learning development and she is always willing to help everyone. She cares so much for them and for her community and it is evident in everything she does. She always goes above and beyond, and she’s always thinking of new ways of teaching and how to improve the lessons according to her students’ needs. Susan is an amazing teammate who helps new staff adapt easily to the school and the system.
Janna Holley & Karen Montgomery, Counseling Admin Assistants
Janna and Karen are the heart of the counseling department. Several students stop by on a regular basis just to visit with the two of them because they are so welcoming. Students share their daily life activities with the both of them and look to each for their advice and support. Janna and Karen create an atmosphere of inclusivity and support so ALL students feel valued. For every holiday, they create a variety of activities to help students de-stress from the rigors of classes. All new students and their parents are introduced to both of these ladies during enrollment and on several occasions the families mention how welcomed they felt. We all know students who feel a sense of belonging are more successful and have a better HS experience and Janna Holley and Karen Montgomery go out of their way to make all who enter here feel like a part of something special!
Catherine Kelly, English Teacher
Catherine Kelly is a "student-centered teacher." She goes above and beyond in assisting where needed, even offering her time and support for students during lunch hours. She is readily available to meet with parents, discussing their child's progress and addressing any concerns they may have. She understands the importance of open communication and collaboration between home and school. Ms. Kelly also actively supports her colleagues in many ways—she covers classes when needed, shares ideas, offers feedback on assignments, and collaborates on curriculum development. Ms. Kelly’s positive impact exemplifies what it means to be a hero in the WHS School community.
Chloe Leblanc, Special Education Teacher
Chloe continually treats her students and coworkers with compassion, kindness and maintains their dignity. She possesses a remarkable can-do attitude, approaching every challenge with resilience and creativity. She is a true problem solver, constantly seeking innovative ways to ensure that every member of our team feels valued, included, and heard. Her commitment to inclusivity extends far beyond the spirit team; she fosters a culture of belonging and acceptance that enriches the lives of our students and strengthens our entire community. Through her leadership and mentorship, teachers grow as educators, gaining invaluable insights into working with students with special needs and fostering an environment of inclusivity and support. Chloe's contributions to the Westlake Spirit Team, and indeed to Westlake as a whole, are immeasurable. She embodies the qualities of a true champion of inclusivity, inspiration, and excellence. She is a shining example of the power of education and compassion.
Nathan Rose, Algebra Teacher & Theatre Assistant
Nathan is a gem of a human. Not only does he spend his day teaching Honors Algebra II, but he also serves as the Westlake Theatre production assistant throughout the week on all productions. This position uses his immense talents as a costume and prop creator, and allows him to teach students many essential design skills (including MANY, MANY hours at a sewing machine). Mr. Rose is also always willing to step in - often at the very last minute! - as a chaperone for many student organizations on their travels to retreats and contests. You won't find a more dedicated educator and more patient human than Mr. Nathan Rose.
Paige Weiss, Special Education Teacher
Paige is much more than an educator and teammate, she is a true leader. Her passion for her students is shown in EVERYTHING she does on campus. Last year she started the Treat Train to help students work on vocational skills, and this year she implemented a Q&A about life skills to the whole school. She wants to make WHS a more inclusive school in EVERY area. Her passion for making our community stronger at school is contagious in so many ways. Paige consistently demonstrates leadership through self-sacrifice, modeling inclusion, and building relationships with staff. Paige is a lead in the Best Buddies program with a student-first mentality and has high expectations for the leadership team. She always has a positive attitude even in the toughest of situations. She seems to be the perfect blend of firmness and compassion. She is a hero to her colleagues and all of the students and families she supports!