The William S. Hart Union High School District recognized nine teachers last week who consistently exemplify the district’s core values of caring, courage, creativity and community.

Since last March, the Hart District has committed to discussing core values and reflecting upon their fundamental purpose as a school district, which has been defined by caring, courage, creativity and community.

“Clarifying what we stand for – and identifying what we hope to achieve – are two essential prerequisites necessary to define the future direction of the Hart District,” read a statement from the district. “Establishing specific goals enables us to prioritize resources, focus our efforts and measure the effectiveness of our programs and practices.”

During the month of August, officials with the Hart District have selected nine teachers who actively do their part to ensure every student is opportunity-ready when they graduate, according to the Hart District.

Steve Lindberg: Caring 

Lindberg has taught at Hart High School for over 36 years and is also the boys and girls golf coach.

“Mr. Lindberg is also part of our Equity and Diversity Collaborative and led students, before our District’s Strategic Plan motto was created, to have the same ‘One Hart’ mentality here on the campus of Hart High School because he cares so much about Hart, the staff and students,” read a statement from the Hart District.

Kelly Seidenkranz: Courage

Seidenkranz was honored with Canyon High School’s first One Hart commemorative coin for courage because of her determination, perseverance, respect and integrity.

Will Hornstein: Creativity

“As Special Education teacher and co-department Chair, Hornstein is being recognized for his creativity in supporting all students at Arroyo Seco and for always striving to meet the needs of our diverse student population,” read a statement from the Hart District. “Thank you for all that you do, Will.”

Amanda Stieff: Community

Amanda Stieff is being recognized for her commitment and contributions to the Community of Arroyo Seco.

“Her efforts with the Professional Development team in guiding staff through the process of clarifying expectations and teaching them to our students have helped to ensure a positive start to the new school year,” read a statement from the Hart District. “Thank you Amanda.”

Rachel Villa: Caring

For more than 30 years, Villa has demonstrated patience and a sense of calm in supporting the staff, parents and students of Arroyo Seco, according to Hart District officials.

“Villa, Office Manager, is the epitome of caring,” read a statement from the Hart District. “Her positivity and willingness to help are greatly appreciated. Thank you Rachel.”

Jan Ondra: Courage

Ondra exemplifies courage as Plant Manager at West Ranch High School, according to Hart District officials.

“Jan has been working overtime for the last 6 months or more as a result of our custodial staff being understaffed,” read a statement from the Hart District. “Jan has led his team by example by getting our campus ready for this school year for our students and staff.”

Mirna Herrera: Community

Herrera, according to La Mesa Junior High officials, has been a great example of being a servant to the community.

“Her efforts to welcome a new principal and office staff have tremendously helped with the transition and start to the school year,” read a statement from the Hart District. “She always has a positive attitude and is always willing to jump in and offer assistance at any moment.”

Kellen Atkins: Creativity

As a veteran counselor at La Mesa, Kellen is getting the One Hart Award for Creativity as he is “always looking for ways to connect with students as individuals in a diverse student population.”

“He has proven to be a vital asset to the team at La Mesa as he consistently looks at each student as individuals that are full of potential,” read a statement from the Hart District.

Debbie Dunn: Creativity

Dunn serves as an example of an individual using her creative drive to make the Hart District a better place for students, staff and parents, according to Hart District officials.

“She is responsible for branding the District with new logos that celebrate our core values and our fundamental purpose: ‘Every Student – Opportunity Ready,’” read a statement from the Hart District.

Based on the input of parents, she is working with a team to update our website and is responsible for sharing daily content about the District on their social media accounts.

“Each month the District will recognize staff, students, and community members who exemplify the Hart District core values,” read a statement from the Hart District. “Congratulations to the August One Hart Award winners!”

*******************************************************************************************

This story is brought to you by friends at the California Credit Union.

California Credit Union is a trusted partner of the education community and proud sponsor of the KHTS Education Corner, KHTS Sacramento Road Trip, SCV Education Foundation and the WiSH Education Foundation to support programs that directly aid students and teachers throughout Santa Clarita Valley. California Credit Union is a federally insured, state-chartered credit union founded in 1933 that serves public and private school employees, community members and businesses across California. California Credit Union offers a full suite of consumer, business and investment products and services, including exclusive services for school employees, comprehensive consumer checking and loan options, personalized financial planning, business banking and leading‐edge online and mobile banking. For more information contact Mariam Nasiry, Senior School & Community Development Officer at MNasiry@ccu.com. You may also visit our local Valencia Branch located at 24343 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Santa Clarita, CA 91355, or any of our 25 locations throughout Southern California. Learn more about California Credit Union at www.ccu.com and follow the credit union on Instagram® or Facebook® @CaliforniaCreditUnion. Ready to open an account today? Click to Here to Apply!

KHTS FM 98.1 and AM 1220 is Santa Clarita’s only local radio station. KHTS mixes in a combination of news, traffic, sports, and features along with your favorite adult contemporary hits. Santa Clarita news and features are delivered throughout the day over our airwaves, on our website and through a variety of social media platforms. Our KHTS national award-winning daily news briefs are now read daily by 34,000+ residents. A vibrant member of the Santa Clarita community, the KHTS broadcast signal reaches all of the Santa Clarita Valley and parts of the high desert communities located in the Antelope Valley. The station streams its talk shows over the web, reaching a potentially worldwide audience. Follow @KHTSRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.