Pekare, Arbogast presented with Crystal Starfish Awards

North Royalton City Schools announced that North Royalton Elementary School Preschool Teacher Lori Pekare and Kim Arbogast, a science aide at North Royalton High School, have been named the recipients of the first semester’s Crystal Starfish Award.

Pekare, who received a $250 professional development grant from First Federal of Lakewood, was nominated for the award by both a colleague and a parent.

“Even though she has taught the same ages for years, she is always trying to find new and fun activities for them,” one nomination states. “She has shown that she really understands the age. … She has high expectations for all students and is able to remain calm and positive even in more difficult situations. She makes the classroom a fun place to be for students and staff alike.”

Various colleagues nominated Arbogast.  

“Mrs. Arbogast works tirelessly to keep students on track in the biology classes that she supports,” one nomination states. “She builds relationships with all of the students so she can hold them accountable at the same time she is cheering them on.  She works tirelessly to keep kids on track and supports the teachers in ways beyond her job description.  We are lucky to have her in the science department, and it shows in student successes.” ∞