This year, we’re excited to celebrate the incredible team at Siloam Springs School District. Each week, we’ll shine a spotlight on a member of our staff, showcasing what makes them an essential part of our mission to serve our students. Look out for our weekly “SILOAM SPOTLIGHT” feature — it’s going to be an amazing year, and you’ll soon see why!
"Anna is quick to jump when a student or colleague has a need. She's always ready and willing to help out. She cares deeply about her students and works hard to meet their needs." -Micah Cummings-Foshee, MS Assistant Principal
"Ms. Brown brings so much excitement and energy to her teaching each day. She is a positive person who encourages her colleagues and students to be their best. Her energy is so refreshing and inspires me to be my best as a teacher. I love teaming with her to create engaging lesson plans that our students will learn from and enjoy." -Julie Reynolds, 8th grade MS Teacher
"Ms. Brown knows how to make students feel comfortable and ready to learn. Her classroom is organized and welcoming, and she always makes sure everyone feels supported and has the chance to succeed. " -Stacey Torell, Engineering & Robotics MS Teacher
"Ms. Anna Brown is truly like sunshine in a bottle! Her enthusiasm and energy light up the classroom, making learning a joyful experience for all her students. She cares deeply about each student, not just as learners, but as individuals with unique needs and dreams. As a team player, she collaborates well with her peers and fosters a supportive environment. She isn't afraid to ask for help when she needs it and welcomes advice, showing her commitment to growth and improvement. Even though she is a first-year teacher, Mrs. Brown has already inspired everyone around her with her passion and dedication!" -Tiffinie Smith, Instructional Coach MS
"Michele uses and teaches her staff to use the PUSH acronym while dealing with students. P - Peace U -Understanding S - Success H - Hope . When students are in need she finds avenues for help. Michele is an outstanding leader who loves kids. She can hold students accountable for learning while balancing her expectations with flexibility and grace. She doesn't back down from difficult situations and stays firm in her belief that all students are worthy of success. Michele is willing to do whatever it takes to help her students meet their goals. She is a difference maker!" - Michelle Paden, Director of Student Services
"Michele is very thoughtful when working with students and adults alike. She is a strong listener and doesn't jump to conclusions without researching beforehand. Under Michele's leadership, MSA students strongly feel a sense of connection and belonging." - Amy Carter, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum
"Michelle has an unmatched heart. I have seen how she loves her kids, teaches them to have high expectations, and helps them finish at a high level. Michelle is such an amazing person and example for us all." -Jared Schoonover, HR Director
"I have had the opportunity to work with Tad in 2 different districts, and the first thing that always comes to my mind when talking about Tad is high character. Tad is always going to do what he believes is right for our kids. He loves being a difference-maker in their lives and I am glad he is on our team." Jared Schoonover, HR Director
"Tad Turner is a positive influence on his students and players and lives his life in a way that he is looked at as a true role model. Tad builds relationships with his students and players which allows him to push them to perform to the best of their abilities. Coach Turner truly cares about his students and players and will go above and beyond to make sure they have everything they need to have an opportunity to be successful. " -Doug Loughridge, Head Football Coach
"Coach Turner is the epitome of care and kindness. Everything he says and does has the students best interests in mind. He has a way with story and real life examples that help kids with success and adversity. His patience is so evident in every situation. He shows up ready to work everyday with the calmest energy that is contagious." - Kirk Benson, HS Teacher and Coach
"Tad is a true team player! He is always ready to do whatever is asked. I trust him because of how he treats our kids. Good man! Good mentor!" - Jeff Williams, Athletic Director
"Steve is very dedicated to his job as director and enjoys his job. He serves on the state board of transportation in Arkansas and strives to make sure our department is the best it can be. Steve very rarely misses work and works hard at trying to influence our staff to always be here." - Kenny Thurman, Fleet Manager
"Steve Avery is not only well respected in his field across the state. More importantly, he has a true passion for our students and their safety. I don't think people realize that he starts when we are all still asleep and it's not over until all of the buses are back safely in the evening. Mr. Avery has a servant's heart and is an advocate for his employees and community. He is a great example for Panther Pride! " - Jason Lawrence, Assistant Superintendent of Operations
"I recently did a ride along with Steve on a route and I loved that he greeted and gave a goodbye to every student with an individual passion for each one of them. I saw smile after smile from the kids because they knew on that route that day Steve Avery cared about them. Steve Avery is passionate about his job and we are so lucky to have him at Siloam." -Jared Schoonover, HR Director
"Steve is the most compassionate person I know. He loves all kids, wants to better them however he can, and always wants them to know they are loved. You haven't been around him enough if you don't love or respect Steve Avery. He always says, "Teach them up to be a better human because they are the ones who will take care of you when you are old," He believes that all students are good humans. They may need to be taught a little, and that's our job every day. No one has a Panther heart bigger than he does. " - Tana Turney, Assistant Transportation Director