Bluejacket Celebration 2025
May 28, 2025
The recipient of this year’s Friend of the Cambridge-Isanti Community Award is:
Donna McNear
Donna is someone who truly embodies the spirit of service and compassion. She is a passionate advocate for education and a constant presence in the lives of our students. As a grandmother to four Bluejackets, she shows up—at school events, in our churches, through the Bluejacket Education Foundation, and beyond. Her commitment to helping others feel heard, supported, and inspired is a gift to our entire community. Donna, thank you for leading by example and showing us how to keep good going in the world.
This year’s Bluejacket Way: Above & Beyond Award winners are:
Elizabeth Lehn, Parent Educator at Early Childhood
Elizabeth is a standout educator who brings warmth, knowledge, and support to every parent and child she works with. She creates a welcoming, inclusive space where parents feel heard, encouraged, and empowered—offering thoughtful guidance, practical resources, and meaningful connection. Whether she's sharing research-based strategies or weaving a child’s interest into the day’s lesson, Elizabeth builds trust and fosters growth. Her dedication, compassion, and embodiment of our Bluejacket character traits make her an invaluable part of our early childhood community.
Rodney Church, Bus Driver with the Transportation Department
Rodney has become so much more than a bus driver to the families he serves. With his warm smile, calm presence, and genuine kindness, he creates a safe and welcoming space for all students—including those who need a little extra care. His patience and positivity make a lasting impact, and families feel truly fortunate to have him as part of their daily routine.
Justin Kennedy, Band Teacher at Cambridge-Isanti High School
Justin’s impact on his students reaches far beyond the classroom. Through his dedication, encouragement, and mentorship, he’s helped students grow into passionate, accomplished musicians—mastering multiple instruments, earning top honors, and performing at prestigious events. His support doesn’t end with the school day; he creates opportunities, builds confidence, and inspires excellence. Justin’s commitment truly transforms lives and represents the very best of our music program.
Kirsten Charles, Preschool Teacher at Early Childhood
Ms. Kirsten is a shining example of care, connection, and joy in the classroom. She brings learning to life with fun, creativity, and compassion—whether it’s sharing snow day activities or comforting a child during a tough morning. Her strong communication with families, genuine love for her students, and ability to make every child feel seen and supported have left a lasting impact. She truly embodies the values we hold dear, and we’re so grateful for the difference she makes every day.
Angela Lindell, Volunteer Coordinator with Community Education at IPS, IIS, C-I STEAM
Angela is the heart behind so much of the connection and collaboration in our schools. As our volunteer coordinator, she brings warmth, energy, and encouragement to everything she does—whether she’s organizing events, recruiting support, or showing up to volunteer herself. Her positivity is contagious, and her dedication inspires others to get involved and make a difference. Angela helps create a welcoming, motivated school community, and we’re incredibly grateful for the impact she continues to make every single day.
Our Support Staff of Excellence Award recipients are:
Jo Ann Long, Administrative Assistant at Isanti Primary School
Jo Ann is the kind of person who makes a school run smoothly—and feel like home. As an administrative assistant, she brings kindness, calm, and a welcoming spirit to everyone who walks through the door. She supports staff with grace and efficiency, takes on every task with care, and handles even the unexpected with poise. Whether it’s her warm smile, helpful nature, or legendary “All Calls,” Jo Ann is truly the voice and heart of her building. Her dedication and character shine through in everything she does, and we’re so lucky to have her.
Sarah Wick, Instructional Assistant at Isanti Primary School
Sarah brings warmth, heart, and dedication to everything she does. As an intervention assistant, she supports students with genuine care—treating each one as if they were her own. She's flexible, dependable, and always willing to lend a hand or a listening ear. Whether it’s checking in on a colleague or offering a comforting hug to a student in need, Sarah creates a space of kindness and calm. Her positive spirit lifts up those around her, and today we’re honored to celebrate the incredible impact she makes every single day.
Joey Folkema , Grounds and Maintenance at Cambridge-Isanti High School
Joey is the kind of team member every school dreams of having. As a dedicated grounds custodian, Joey takes pride in maintaining our athletic fields and facilities, ensuring everything is safe, welcoming, and game-day ready. But his impact doesn’t stop there—he volunteers at events, supports staff and students, and is a regular presence on the sidelines, always cheering on our teams. Joey goes the extra mile without being asked and brings positivity, integrity, and excellence to everything he does. He truly exemplifies the Bluejacket Way, and we’re grateful to recognize him today.
Emily White, Instructional Assistant & Lunchroom Monitor at IMS, and Bus Driver with Transportation
Emily White is a true example of dedication, kindness, and community spirit. Whether she’s driving a bus, supporting students in the lunchroom, or stepping in as an instructional assistant, Emily brings care and commitment to everything she does. She’s organized, reliable, and always positive—going the extra mile to support not just our students, but the entire community. From leading Girl Scouts to attending school and city events with her kids, Emily is deeply invested in making a difference. We’re so lucky to have her, and it’s an honor to recognize her today.
Chelsea Johnson, Instructional Assistant at Isanti Intermediate and C-I STEAM School
Chelsea has made an extraordinary impact in her short time with us. Though assigned to support just a few students, she builds strong, meaningful connections with every child in the classroom. Chelsea is not only a calming presence and expert at preventing behavior issues—she’s also brought learning to life, even hatching chicken eggs with students during their animal science unit! Her passion, dedication, and willingness to step in wherever needed have made her a beloved and essential part of the team. We’re so grateful for the energy and heart she brings every single day.
Our Teacher of Excellence Award recipients are:
Christi Voce, English Language Arts Teacher at Cambridge Middle School
Christi is being honored for the peaceful, inclusive, and nurturing environment she creates in her classroom. Her gentle and steady presence helps students feel at ease, while her consistent kindness builds strong, trusting relationships. Christi is deeply committed to meeting every student with empathy and patience, accepting them exactly as they are. Her impact goes beyond academics—she fosters emotional well-being and empowers every student to feel safe, valued, and heard. Christi truly embodies what it means to be an exceptional educator.
Amanda Grosskopf, Science Teacher at Cambridge Middle School
Amanda is being recognized for her remarkable leadership, problem-solving skills, and dedication to her students. As a 7th and 8th grade Science teacher, Amanda is known for creating a positive, inclusive learning environment where every student feels supported. She’s a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and an incredibly organized educator who inspires those around her. With a great sense of humor and a humble, hardworking spirit, Amanda consistently goes above and beyond to ensure all students can thrive. Her impact on our school community is truly exceptional.
Hope Tanko, School Nurse at Cambridge-Isanti High School
Hope is known for her unwavering compassion, dedication, and care as the school nurse at CIHS. She creates a safe, supportive, and inclusive space where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Hope builds strong, trusting relationships through empathy and exceptional communication, always meeting students' unique needs with kindness and respect. Her calm, solution-focused presence and ability to navigate challenges make her an invaluable part of the school community. Hope truly embodies the spirit of this award, and we are so fortunate to have her at CIHS.
Heather Bednar, Grade 2 Teacher at Isanti Primary School
Heather Bednar is a passionate, creative, and dedicated educator who brings energy and excellence to everything she does. She’s a trusted mentor, sharing her wisdom and supporting colleagues with kindness and professionalism. Her classroom is filled with joy and excitement, where students take part in unforgettable experiences like Spy Day and Fear Factor Math. With deep knowledge of curriculum and a gift for building strong relationships, Heather empowers both students and staff. She truly is the teacher of teachers—lifting everyone around her and inspiring a love of learning every day.
Heather Schurbon, Grade 2 Teacher at Cambridge Primary School
Heather Schurbon is a shining example of how great teachers are always growing. She builds strong, respectful relationships with students and families while also working hard to master new curriculum and improve instruction. Even when faced with challenges, Heather remains warm, professional, and grounded in ethics. As a team collaborator and BILT representative, she’s found her leadership voice—speaking up with courage and compassion, always keeping the bigger picture in mind. Heather leads with integrity and heart, encouraging both character and intellect in all she does.
The recipient of this year’s first ever Leader of Excellence Award is:
Chris Wilmot
Chris is being honored as the first-ever recipient of the Leader of Excellence Award for his outstanding leadership as the Buildings and Grounds Director. Notably, Chris received many nominations for this award—a reflection of the widespread respect and appreciation for his work across the district. Chris consistently takes on every task with dedication and a strong sense of responsibility, ensuring that issues, whether big or small, are handled efficiently and thoroughly. He leads by example, often working alongside his custodial team and offering support whenever needed. Chris’s positive attitude, resourcefulness, and commitment to maintaining safe, functional, and welcoming spaces for our students and staff are unmatched. His attention to detail, strong work ethic, and calm demeanor in high-pressure situations make him an indispensable part of our district. Chris’s leadership has a profound impact on the Cambridge-Isanti community, and his efforts are deeply valued by all.
Colleen Croft
Today we celebrate Colleen Croft, a dedicated Special Education Teacher who is retiring after 14 years of service to Cambridge-Isanti Schools. Colleen spent her first year at Isanti Intermediate before finding her home at Cambridge Intermediate, where she spent the next 13 years making a lasting impact.
One of Colleen’s favorite parts of being at C-I has been the strong sense of connection—knowing so many students in the building beyond just those she directly served. She’s always brought warmth, compassion, and a personal touch to her work—perhaps most memorably through her beloved therapy dogs. The comfort and joy they brought to students will be remembered for years to come.
In retirement, Colleen is looking forward to time with family, enjoying the great outdoors, and of course, plenty of puppy snuggles. Thank you, Colleen, for your years of care, dedication, and heart. You will be missed, and we wish you all the best in this next chapter!
Chris Dahlquist
We celebrate Chris Dahlquist, a dedicated Special Education Instructional Assistant whose career with Cambridge-Isanti Schools spans just shy of 28 remarkable years. Chris has supported students at IMS, CIHS, CPS, and most recently at Cambridge Intermediate, always bringing patience, care, and encouragement to every classroom she’s been part of. Chris has loved working with students—guiding them through projects, helping them reach their goals, and of course, making memories on field trips. But what she cherishes most are the friendships she’s formed along the way, which have made her time here so special. As Chris steps into retirement, she looks forward to time with friends and family—and to slowing down and soaking in the beauty of sunsets on the water. Thank you, Chris, for your years of dedication, heart, and service. You’ve left a lasting impact, and you will be truly missed.
Deb Feero
Jackie Heinen
We celebrate Jackie Heinen, a dedicated Special Education Instructional Assistant who has faithfully served Cambridge-Isanti Schools for 22 years. Throughout her time with the district, Jackie wore many hats—IA sub, ECFE assistant, lunchroom supervisor, bus IA, and SPED IA—making a difference in countless ways across many buildings. She retires this year from Cambridge Intermediate School. What Jackie cherished most about her time here was being part of her children’s educational journey—working in the same schools they attended, walking the halls alongside them. Her fondest memories include the joy and humor she experienced with her DCD students—especially their unforgettable one-liners that still make her smile. As Jackie enters retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with family, quilting, and slowing down enough to dip her toes in the water on a warm summer day. Thank you, Jackie, for the care, laughter, and heart you’ve brought to our schools. You’ve left a legacy of kindness that won’t be forgotten.
Bob Kahring
We honor Bob Kahring, a proud Bluejacket alumnus and an unwavering member of our Maintenance and Custodial team for the past 19 years. Bob has worn many hats across nearly every building in the district—serving in roles from weekend security to evening custodian, from maintenance to groundskeeping, and as Head Custodian at CPIS, IMS, and most recently, CIS. For Bob, Cambridge-Isanti isn’t just where he worked—it’s home. He grew up here, went to school here, and built a career grounded in dedication and service to this community. His fond memories span from youth to adulthood, marked by meaningful interactions with staff and students and a deep love for Bluejacket sports. As Bob begins retirement, he looks forward to spending time with family, riding his bike, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors. Thank you, Bob, for your years of service and commitment. You’ve helped make this district a better place, and you will be truly missed.
Kevin Larson
We honor Kevin Larson, a beloved and well-known teacher whose 26 years with Cambridge-Isanti Schools have left a lasting legacy. Kevin began his journey teaching 6th grade at the Minnesota Center, continued with 6th grade at CMS, and ended teaching Project Lead the Way to 7th and 8th graders at CMS. Kevin’s favorite part of his time here has been the friendships he’s built—especially with the “CMS OG,” a close-knit group of 6th grade teachers. They shared not just classrooms, but laughter, field trips, break times, and light-hearted pranks. Their bond extended far beyond the school walls, turning colleagues into lifelong friends. In addition to teaching, Kevin devoted many years to coaching, showing his deep passion for Bluejacket athletics and his unwavering support for students. Known for his big heart, booming laugh, and that signature Kevin smile, he’s been more than a teacher—he’s been a mentor, a teammate, and a champion for kids. Thank you, Kevin, for your years of service, leadership, and joy. You’ve made a difference that will be felt for generations to come.
Karen Olson
We recognize Karen Olson, an Instructional Assistant who has dedicated 15 years of service to Cambridge-Isanti Schools. Karen began her journey as a para at IIS, IMS, and CMS, and played a key role during the early days of the Moving Forward program. She spent the remainder of her impactful career at CIHS, where she became a valued and respected member of the team. Karen’s favorite part of the C-I community has been the incredible relationships she’s built—making lifelong friends among the staff, paras, and teachers she worked alongside. Her most meaningful memories come from working with some of the toughest students, helping them grow, and building real connections—a personal goal that brought her deep fulfillment. In retirement, Karen has been enjoying precious time with family and soaking up sunny days on the lake. Thank you, Karen, for your compassion, commitment, and the difference you’ve made in the lives of so many. You will be greatly missed.
Joe Richard
We recognize Joe Richards, a dedicated member of our custodial team, who is retiring after 24 years of service to Cambridge-Isanti Schools. Joe has worked in multiple buildings across the district, bringing reliability, hard work, and a steady presence to every school he served—most recently at Cambridge Middle School. Joe has always appreciated the kindness of the people he worked with, and his fond memories include the many summers spent preparing our buildings for the new school year—ensuring that students and staff had clean, welcoming spaces to return to. As Joe heads into retirement, we wish him joyful travels, peaceful days, and smooth roads ahead. May the rain clouds stay behind you, and may the sun always shine upon your path. Thank you, Joe, for everything.
Gloria Wressell
We celebrate Gloria Wressell, who is retiring after 24 incredible years as a music teacher with Cambridge-Isanti Schools. Gloria began her journey at Cambridge Elementary, teaching K-4 music before moving to Cambridge Intermediate, where she inspired students in grades 3 through 5.
Gloria’s favorite part of her time here has been the camaraderie among the staff and administration—a true reflection of the community she helped shape. But it’s through music that Gloria made her greatest mark. Over the years, she directed nearly 150 concerts, taking students and audiences alike on unforgettable journeys. They’ve been cats and dogs, explored the jungle, toured islands, created snowstorms, celebrated Native American traditions, and even taught a penguin to waltz. One moment she’ll never forget is when a student who rarely spoke sang a solo in a holiday concert. It was so moving, it brought her to tears—and reminded us all of the power of music. As Gloria looks forward to spending more time with her family in retirement, we thank her for the creativity, care, and heart she brought to generations of students. You will be deeply missed, Gloria—congratulations on a beautiful career!
Thank you to everyone that joined us for the Bluejacket Celebration!
Cambridge-Isanti Schools
Email: dist-communications@c-ischools.org
Website: c-ischools.org
Location: 625a Main Street North, Cambridge, MN, USA
Phone: 7636896188