Over this past year there have been many changes for Columbia administrators, teachers and staff members. Our community of learners and staff members have collaborated to create additional points of pride and excellence. Our administrators and teachers have worked together to create new ingenious programs, learned to teach on new educational platforms and through intense cooperation, have benefited their students. Our Columbia Heroes have put their heart and soul into reaching out to students in new and different ways. The creativity and ingenuity exhibited by these special staff members have allowed our Columbia pupils to continue to learn and grow.
One of the nominated Heroes is Columbia Upper Elementary principal, Mrs. Van Wagnen. Mrs. V as her students call her, was nominated as a Columbia Hero by Tina and Larry Caryl. They wrote that they “are grateful for Mrs. Van Wagnen and all of the teachers and staff.” They continued by commenting that, “We have such an amazing staff.”
As the leader of Columbia Upper Elementary School, Mrs. V has made an impact on our students and their teachers. When Jennifer Van Wagnen heard that she had been nominated as a Columbia Hero, she was so humble and thankful. She immediately gave the credit to her staff and fellow administrators. Jennifer said that her staff members are hard workers and passionate for the education of their students.
The Caryl’s mentioned that they appreciated all Mrs. Van Wagnen has done for students over this difficult year. They said, “Again my words can't come close to expressing our appreciation. These are the hardest times and I know the teachers are doing everything they can to think of each and every student, not just academically but their emotional as well.” They continued by commenting, “We are grateful!”
When notified that she was nominated as a Columbia Hero, Mrs. V said, “Thank you so much for the nomination!” Mrs. V’s positive attitude and spirit of encouragement benefits Columbia Upper Elementary School students and those around her each and every day. Mrs. Van Wagnen continued by saying, "My pleasure! I haven’t worked a day in my life since becoming a Golden Eagle. I love the students, the staff and the members of our community, and I feel blessed to live and work in such a great place. We come together during times of adversity and lift each other up. We work together to achieve greatness and I could not be more proud. Every day is a GREAT day to be a Golden Eagle!"
Congratulations to Columbia Upper Elementary School Hero Mrs. Van Wagnen! Her determination to make a difference in the lives of our students and give them an opportunity to grow and mature, has made a positive impact on hundreds of children. If you see Mrs. Van Wagnen, please tell her “Thank You” for all she does each and every day for our students! If you are interested in learning more about Columbia School District, please contact me at 5175926641 or email Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org .