Throughout the school year, Allen ISD recognizes staff who exemplify our three district goals, Culture of Excellence, Future Ready Skills and Empowered Learning. Through the Allen ISD Employee Recognition Program, we highlight individuals and teams demonstrating exceptional commitment to their roles. Allen ISD recently recognized Allie Thompson, Leigh Unkenholz, Katie Brown, Mary Stock, Doug Key, Keith Shaw, Cody Wisniewski, and Payton Austin for Empowered Learning.
Allie Thompson and Leigh Unkenholz Recognized for Connecting Elementary and High School Students Through Creative Collaboration
Allie Thompson, third grade teacher at Olson Elementary, and Leigh Unkenholz, theater teacher at Allen High School, were recognized for creating a vertical learning partnership that empowered students across grade levels. The project connected Thompson’s third grade students with Unkenholz’s high school theater students, who used student-created animal and creature drawings as inspiration to sew plushies. The collaboration supported classroom community, creativity and hands-on learning while giving students at both campuses an opportunity to see their ideas come to life through the work of others.
Curtis Middle School US History Team Recognized for Creating an Engaging STAAR Review Experience
Katie Brown, Mary Stock, Doug Key, Keith Shaw, Cody Wisniewski and Payton Austin were recognized for developing a creative Mario Kart-themed review to help eighth grade students prepare for the history STAAR test. The team designed a three-day experience where students answered STAAR-style questions, completed hands-on activities and worked collaboratively to apply their learning across historical time periods. Administrators, counselors, learning support staff and the librarian also joined the effort, helping create an engaging campuswide experience that empowered students to review, collaborate and take ownership of their learning.