Every year, Highland Terrace PTA recognizes individuals for their contributions to our students and school community with the Golden Acorn and Golden Apple Awards. We are so fortunate to call them Orcas – thank you for all you do!
Golden Apple Award for Outstanding Educator
Kitten Vaa
Mrs. Vaa is an all-around amazing teacher, reported across the HT community by students, families and staff. Her love of science and learning have translated into a classroom that her students are excited to be a part of. She is a master at creating interdisciplinary units, weaving academic standards, current events, social justice standards, and community and relationship building activities into her regular class work. She goes above and beyond for her students, meeting their unique academic, social, and emotional needs with equal attention. She is patient, firm, but loving, and makes each of her students feel loved, valued, and challenged. She puts her all into every day, and we are lucky to have her at Highland Terrace!
Kristie Brown
Kristie is for many the first face and voice of Highland Terrace. She greets every family with a warm heart and a radiant smile each day. She is such a kind, warm person, and has formed strong bonds with the entire HT community. Her exceptional ability to coordinate activities across classrooms, teachers, and families highlights her organizational skills, leadership, and patience. She takes on so many roles within the school that things would not run as smoothly without her. She is such an amazing part of the Highland Terrace Elementary community- where would we be without you, Kristie!
Golden Acorn Award for Outstanding Service
A great big Orca Spout Out goes to this year’s HTPTA Golden Acorn winner Christel Cangas!Christel Cangas
Christel has been an integral part of HTPTA for many many years. She has put her time and her passion for our community to work in so many different roles, no project or task too large or small, including PTA President! Her love for our Orcas shines through in her commitment to making sure we are providing all kinds of great community building opportunities for our school. Highland Terrace is lucky to have her – thank you for all you do, Christel!
Let’s shout with big Orca Pride for this year’s HTPTA Golden Acorn winner Kathryne Shrewsbury!Kathryne Shrewsbury
Kathryne has been the main engine of the PTA these last 2 years as PTA President. She has helped to maintain important HTPTA traditions while bringing new ideas, fun, and enrichment for all. She cares deeply about the HT community and it shows. She’s in the library, in the lunchroom, at recess, at all major HTPTA events – she simply does it all. Her energy and tireless enthusiasm are a big part of what makes HTPTA successful – you are amazing, Kathryne!