Staff Members of the Month - April 2025

Stacey Johnston, Instructional Assistant, Nominated by Principal Kristen Murphy

“Stacey Johnston shines in every corner of our building. She is always wearing a smile, never raises her voice, and truly loves our little Hatchets with all her heart. Whether she’s greeting you at the door or stepping in to help wherever needed, you know Stacey genuinely cares—not just about our students, but about their families and all of us on staff.

As a classroom aide, her job isn’t easy, but you’ll never hear her complain. Her kindness, dedication, and willingness to support both students and staff make her an irreplaceable part of our Washington Primary family. Stacey is truly an asset, and we would be lost without her!”

Alejandra Cruz, Secretary, Nominated by Principal Caleb Cherry

“Alejandra is an incredibly hardworking and positive member of our team whose contributions are invaluable. Her ability to communicate effectively with our Spanish-speaking families ensures that every family feels heard, supported, and included. Alejandra consistently goes above and beyond, always stepping up without hesitation to support staff, students, and families in any way she can. Her dedication, flexibility, and can-do attitude make her an essential part of our success.”

Matt Cissel, Food Service,  Nominated by Sodexo Food Service Director Eben Lips

“Matt has been working for the school district for almost 15 years. In that time, he has become an invaluable asset to the High School cafeteria team. In his career, Matt has near perfect attendance at work. Although he is primarily in the dish room, he is always willing to fill in other jobs in the cafeteria to cover other employees shifts when they take days off. He also comes in after school to help with the dinner program and catering. Could we do the summer bag hand without Matt?  Yes. Would we want to? No. Having someone who is willing and able to carry the heavy stuff makes him irreplicable for that program.  He probably is not here tonight because we are working catering for JROTC. Thank you, Matt, for all your hard work and dedication to Washington Community Schools Food Service.”

Matt Riney, Computer Science teacher, Nominated by Principal Brian Holland

“Mr. Riney is a Computer Science teacher at Washington High School.  He exemplifies what it means to be a great teacher.  He relates well with students.  He is passionate about everything Hatchets.  Mr. Riney has been a leader within our school and has taken on various roles during his teaching time at WHS.  Not only is Mr. Riney knowledgeable in the area of Computer Science and Robotics, he truly cares about kids.  He goes above and beyond to help our students.  He taken what they do in class and created real-world experiences.  With the support and efforts of the community, Mr. Riney helps his advanced computer science classes create the Christmas Light Show each year.  Also, the beginner computer science classes create a hallway Christmas Light Show.  And, he has taken our robotics program to a championship level. Mr. Riney is a Washington Hatchets graduate and we are very fortunate to have him at WHS teaching.”