Wanamaker Elementary honors staff and student at Auburn Washburn board meeting

Mark Sonderager, principal of Wanamaker Elementary, presented three Wanamaker "Mustang" recognitions during the board meeting, honoring two staff members and one student.

On the certified-staff award, Mark introduced Sarah Prutgen and said, "So it is my honor, tonight to introduce Sarah Pruden as this month's shining star recipient for the certified staff at Wanamaker. Sarah is 1 of those remarkable educators who quietly makes an extraordinary impact every single day. Her colleagues describe her as kind, caring, and always willing to help anyone. She consistently goes above and beyond not only for her students on her caseload, she teaches special education, but also for any student who needs her support. This year alone, Sarah has given up countless lunches and planning times to collaborate with teachers, brainstorm strategies, and ensure that every child gets what they need to thrive."

Mark then introduced Bruce Smith as the month's classified staff recipient: "So Bruce is 1 of those people every school wishes they could clone. A steady, positive, and truly essential part of our support staff. He works with some of the toughest students and he does so with a calm, patient, and often humorous approach that helps kids feel safe, understood, and ready to reset."

Finally Mark recognized student Caroline Wilt: "Caroline is 1 of those students who reminds us why we love what we do. She's kind, respectful, and always willing to help others... Caroline's first year at Wanamaker was a unique 1. She started kindergarten during COVID, learning with masks and distance between friends, but even then she showed the same determination and positive attitude that continues to shine today."

Each honoree received public congratulations from the board; no formal board action was attached to the recognitions.