North Platte, NE – May 21, 2025 – The North Platte Public Schools Foundation, in partnership with the North Platte Public Schools District, proudly celebrated the 2024–2025 Teachers and Employees of the Year. The annual recognition event honored outstanding staff who go above and beyond in their dedication to students, schools, and the community.
Past recipients played a special role in this year’s ceremony, with Charles Hayes, Jennifer Paul, Kyle Milton, Johnny Zogg, and Cory Spotanski assisting in presenting awards.
“We are honored to celebrate these incredible individuals who represent the best of our schools, this is never easy because there are many deserving,” said Terri Burchell, Executive Director of the North Platte Public Schools Foundation. “Each one of them contributes not just in the classroom or office, but in shaping a positive culture that supports learning and growth.”
2024–2025 NPPS Teachers and Employees of the Year:
Classified Employee of the Year (PreK–5th):
Elizabeth Buhlke, Jefferson Elementary
Fun Fact: Elizabeth began her NPPSD career as a paraprofessional and stepped into the role of administrative assistant following her mother’s retirement—a true family legacy.
Classified Employee of the Year (6th-12th grades):
Maria Cano, North Platte High School
Fun Fact: Maria, who joined NPPSD in 2021 as a library para, found her calling as an English Language Learner para. She’s known for mentoring students interested in soccer and is well on her way to becoming an ELL teacher!
Teacher of the Year, Elementary (PreK–5):
Stevie Reed, Cody Elementary
Fun Fact: A proud NPHS alum and active community member, Stevie has been a cornerstone of Cody Elementary since 2011.
Teacher of the Year, Secondary (6–12):
Tiffany Johnson, Adams Middle School
Fun Fact: A veteran educator who started her journey at Madison in 1996, Tiffany also wowed the community in the 2023 Dancing with the Stars event. She is known for going the extra mile for students and staff alike.
Rookie Teacher of the Year:
Clare Schinzel, North Platte High School
Fun Fact: Clare joined NPHS fresh from Millard West and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Even amid the challenges of a first year, she’s made an impressive impact and is already a rockstar teacher.
Administrator of the Year:
Veronica Gale, Washington Elementary
Fun Fact: Veronica is an NPHS alum and sister of 2024 honoree Jennifer Paul. Since joining the district in 2005, she has served as a teacher, counselor, and now principal. She’s wrapping up her second year as principal at Washington and is praised for her strong, kind, and principled leadership.
This annual celebration highlights the outstanding work happening every day in North Platte Public Schools and the incredible professionals who lead the way. We will be celebrating them at NPPSF Evening of Excellence event on July 25, 2025. Tickets are available online.
For more information about the NPPS Foundation and how to support innovative education in our district, visit NPPSF.org
