KUSD Closes Recognition Week by Honoring Spark Award Winners and Friends in Education

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KENOSHA, Wis. — Kenosha Unified School District wrapped up its weeklong Recognition Week on Friday by celebrating employees and community members who district leaders say go above and beyond for students every day.

The district honored its 2026 Spark Award winners — staff members recognized for exceptional dedication, leadership and service — along with this year’s “Friends in Education,” individuals and organizations praised for their support of KUSD schools and students.

Throughout the week, KUSD recognized employees reaching milestone anniversaries ranging from five to 40 years of service. Friday’s awards shifted the focus from longevity to impact, highlighting staff members who district officials say make a meaningful difference in classrooms, school buildings and the broader community.

According to the district, Spark Award winners are employees who consistently demonstrate commitment to students, colleagues and families while helping strengthen school culture throughout KUSD.

Among this year’s Spark Award recipients were teachers, instructional specialists, counselors, support staff and administrators from schools across the district.

John Antrim, Kindergarten Teacher — Bose
Michelle Schmahl, Adult Graduation Test Teacher — Bradford
Janette Schumacher, Administrative Support — Bradford
Kyle Sinclair, Special Education Teacher — Bradford
Lisa Wittloff, Music Teacher — LakeView K-8 Academy
Megan Banasiewicz, First Grade Teacher — LakeView K-8 Academy
Kathryn Milschewski, English Teacher — LakeView Technology Academy
Jessica Freng, Math Intervention Specialist — Lance

Kerri Ann Daniels, Administrative Support — Curtis Strange
Tim Forrest, Administrative Specialist — Curtis Strange
Michael Alexie, Music Education Teacher — Curtis Strange
Nicole Vickersheim, Special Education Teacher — Curtis Strange
Jo Ann Ayers, Benefits and Leave Specialist — Educational Support Center
Chris Goetz, Student Support Center
Mielle Roller, Fourth Grade Teacher — Forest Park
Lou Ann Daniels, Instructional Coach — Frank

Kimberly Kron, Instructional Coach — Grant
Jason Sike, Fourth Grade Teacher — Grewenow
Genevere Kenty, Educational Support Professional — Hanchey
Eleanor Gulley, English Learner and Title I Administrator — Hanchey
Peter Moffy, Special Education Teacher — Hosea
Loren Osmussen, English Teacher — Hosea
Stacy Thierlein, Band Teacher — Hosea
Louis Rizzo, First Grade Teacher — Nash

Erin Niedorf, Art Grade Teacher — Pleasant Prairie
Andrew Kerkman, Kindergarten Teacher — Prairie Lane
Alicia P., Administrative Specialist — Reuther
Ann Proplow, First Grade Teacher — Roosevelt
Amanda Spaulding, Dean — Ruth Harman Academy
Kimberley Parker, Third Grade Teacher — Somers
Raquel Flest, Second Grade Teacher — Southport
Crystal Ingram, Special Education Teacher — Washington

Todd Horn, Orchestra Teacher — Washington
Andre Papadopoulos, Educational Support Teacher — Washington

The district also recognized this year’s Friends in Education honorees, community supporters KUSD says have made a lasting impact on local schools through volunteerism, partnerships and support for students and staff.

2026 Friends in Education Honorees

Kayla Olson
The Sharing Center
United Way of Kenosha County
Aurora Health Care
Boy Scouts of America

District officials said the partnerships and volunteer support provided by the honorees help strengthen educational opportunities and learning environments throughout KUSD.

Author

Kevin Mathewson

Kevin Mathewson is a disciple of Christ, husband and a father to two wonderful children. Mathewson was born and raised in Lake County, IL and worked as a police & fire dispatcher from 2005 to 2010 in Round Lake Beach, IL. Mathewson moved to Kenosha County in 2006, later being elected to the position of Alderman of the 8th District in 2012 and 2016. Mathewson is a private investigator, security contractor, journalist, and photographer. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, camping and boating. His favorite amendment is the second, followed closely by the first. He loves his country and community.

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