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Germantown schools honor six nonteaching staff with RISE awards
Summary
The board recognized six support staff across Germantown schools with the 2025–26 RISE awards for contributions ranging from attendance support and nursing care to technology and front-office service.
The Germantown Municipal School District honored six support staff members as 2025–26 RISE award nominees during the Sept. 30 board meeting.
Superintendent Manuel presented the awards, saying the RISE (Recognizing Inspiring School Employees) program celebrates nonteaching staff whose daily work supports student learning. The district recognized nominees from across its schools: Pearl Holland (Houston Middle School), Noor Ausser (Farmington Elementary), Nurse Sarah Nail (Riverdale Elementary), Nurse Celeste Waldrop (Houston High School), Megan McMinn (Forest Hill Elementary) and Marlena Light (Dogwood Elementary). Each nominee received brief remarks about their role and contribution; several came forward for photos.
Superintendent Manuel described RISE as Tennessee’s way of honoring support staff who ‘‘make schools work’’ and noted examples — from nurses managing complex medical needs to front-desk staff welcoming families. The district asked community members to applaud the nominees and noted that the program highlights staff who support students outside the classroom.
The board took no action on the recognition items; the presentation concluded before the start of the consent agenda.
