For the fourth year, our Distinguished Educator of the Year Award recognizes the influential role our educators play in shaping future leaders. This award honors and celebrates educators in Woodland Hills School District for their outstanding accomplishments and commitment to education.
The honoree will be asked to attend the 2026 Starry Night Gala at Edgewood Country Club at 6 PM on Saturday, March 7, 2026. There, the awardee will be celebrated for their achievements with the opportunity to address Gala guests.
Once you submit your nomination, your nominee will be contacted immediately to answer a few additional questions (awards, community service, CV/Bio, etc) in order to ensure fair judging.
Then, a committee consisting of our Host Committee (community members representing the District, parents, business owners, Rotary clubs, etc.) as well as Woodland Hills Foundation board members, will choose the 2026 Educator of the Year.
The committee will choose the winner based on a rubric to award points to the top educator nominee based on, but not limited to the following:
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The nominee has displayed exemplary achievement in the classroom
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The nominee has received recognition, honors, and/or awards on the local, regional, national or international level
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The nominee was nominated by another teacher, student in the Woodland Hills School District
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The nominee has demonstrated service to the community in which they live or have lived
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The nominee has been actively involved in the Woodland Hills Foundation or has provided support for the Foundation (either through applying for mini-grants or dream book items, through other classroom collaborations, volunteerism, financial support, in-kind support or other acts of charity or guidance).
Best of luck to our 2026 Educator of the Year Nominees:
Molly Boswell
7th Grade ELA, Honors ELA, and
Honors Literature Studies
I believe I am a true example of a dedicated leader and a positive role model within the Woodland Hills community. I am a proud alumna of the Woodland Hills Class of 1996, and I remain deeply grateful to my teachers, Adrianne Miller and Jay Bush, who inspired my love of literature and writing. My professional journey at Woodland Hills High School began in 2003 as a student teacher under the guidance of my cooperating teacher, Alison Kline. Immediately after completing my student teaching, I began substitute
teaching for the district. That period was short-lived, however, as my parents shared a message from Theresa Maksimchuk about an opening for an ELA position at the high school—I needed to submit my résumé right away. I didn’t hesitate. I interviewed two days later and was hired the next. That moment marked the true beginning of my career.
I was further blessed with a mentor, Theresa Edwards, who became a guiding influence and a dear friend for many years. I also had the honor of working alongside Laura Arthrell, PatKennedy, Debbie Diehl, Debbie Talarico, and many other remarkable colleagues. My time at Woodland Hills has been rich, meaningful, and deeply fulfilling. I later transferred to East JuniorHigh for one year before the junior highs merged. I would love to say that my passion for working with middle school students was immediate—but that wouldn’t be entirely true. What I can say wholeheartedly is that I have grown to love the minds, energy, and potential of middle schoolers, and I hope to finish my career as a Woodland Hills middle school teacher.I have helped lead and support many fundraisers dedicated to supporting Woodland Hills students and staff during times of need. I have also had the privilege of mentoring two of myELA colleagues, both of whom make meaningful contributions to the Woodland Hills community. One of them, Mr. Krupitzer, was recently recognized as a Distinguished Educator.I recently had the privilege of coaching Dickson’s Girls’ Volleyball team, an experience that quickly became one of the most meaningful chapters of my career. What began as a new opportunity soon grew into a passion, and I plan to continue coaching for many years to come.Throughout the season, I worked to serve as a positive role model for my players, emphasizing the importance of respect, leadership, resilience, and pride—values that extend far beyond the Court.
The young ladies I coached left a lasting impact on me. Their spirit, determination, and tenacity shaped not only their growth as athletes, but also my own growth as an educator and mentor. Being part of their journey, watching them push through challenges and celebrate their successes together, was truly inspiring. I will always remember this team and the powerful energy they brought to every practice and match.
I was an active member of WHEA for 16 years, including two years serving on the executive board. In that role, I helped facilitate purposeful, productive, and actionable communication between the administration and WHEA, ensuring that staff concerns, initiatives, and goals were clearly understood and collaboratively addressed.
Many have asked why I never chose to move to another district—one with fewer challenges or where the needs of the students were not as profound as those in the Woodland Hills community. The answer has become clear to me over the years: I am meant for the children of Woodland Hills. I grew up in this community, know many of their parents, and am proud to call them dear friends. I strive to build strong, meaningful relationships with my students, helping them meet expectations that some may initially see as unattainable. I have mourned the loss of too many young men and women from this community to turn away from the wounded hearts and families who continue to strive for peace, resilience, and hope. This is my community. These are my students. I am Woodland Hills.
Kevin McGuire
Library Media Specialist
Kevin McGuire exemplifies what it means to be an educator who shapes future leaders through empowerment, curiosity, and equitable access to knowledge. As the Library Media Specialist at Woodland Hills High School since 2008, Kevin has transformed the library into a vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and community connection. His work consistently demonstrates exemplary achievement in the classroom, exceptional service to students, and a deep commitment to preserving and elevating the history and identity of the Woodland Hills community.
Kevin’s impact begins with his teaching. Through his innovative library science internship class, he engages students in rigorous, real-world experiences—cataloging, archival work, and research—while nurturing their confidence as scholars. His longstanding partnership with the Carnegie Mellon University Archives provides students with rare, hands-on exposure to archival practice. This collaboration sparked an ambitious project in which Kevin and his students evaluated and digitized historic materials from the districts that unified to create Woodland Hills. He recognized not only the educational value of this work, but its cultural importance. By preserving yearbooks, community newsletters, and other ephemera, Kevin ensures that the collective memory of our region remains accessible to alumni, families, historians, and even film crews seeking authentic local history. His vision and leadership have safeguarded stories that might otherwise have been lost.
Kevin’s dedication to access extends beyond the school walls. Thanks to his collaborative efforts with three local libraries and the Allegheny County Library Association, every one of the district’s 3,400 students now holds a full-access public library card through the Library Cards for All program. This initiative has dramatically expanded students’ opportunities to explore literature, pursue personal interests, and utilize the powerful resources of all 74 public library locations in the county.
Kevin’s service to the broader community is equally outstanding. Since 2014, he has volunteered with Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures, now serving as Volunteer Coordinator and contributing to the Authors to Schools program. His passion for literature also inspired years of work with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, as well as the Woodland Hills Foundation, to secure a historic marker honoring Thomas Bell’s 1941 novel “Out of This Furnace” about three generations of an immigrant family living and working in Braddock. That project culminated in a moving dedication ceremony that included Woodland Hills students, reflecting Kevin’s belief in connecting young people to the history of the place they call home.
As a champion of intellectual freedom, Kevin leads the school’s annual Banned Books Week initiative, encouraging students to explore diverse perspectives and understand the importance of the freedom to read. His advocacy helped Woodland Hills Senior High School earn recognition from the Pennsylvania School Librarian Association as the 2023 Outstanding School Library Program.
Through his scholarship, service, compassion, and unwavering belief in students, Kevin McGuire has profoundly enriched Woodland Hills School District. His contributions reflect the highest ideals of this award, and he is deeply deserving to be recognized as the Woodland Hills Foundation’s 2026 Distinguished Educator of the Year.
Kevin writes, "Despite knowing nothing of the other nominees this year, I am sure I do not deserve this distinction. I can easily think of a dozen of my colleagues that are more deserving. Reading this nomination was deeply moving to me as I feel it encapsulated the pride I take in the service that I do for Woodland Hills - working for the district has been the highlight of my professional life and I can’t believe I get to do this work year after year. In fact, I hesitate to call it work because it never feels that way. I am truly honored to bring experiences to our students (especially with the Woodland Hills Interaction Series) that I know that no other students in the country are getting in their schools. I will keep doing that until I retire (and maybe beyond, who am I kidding? It is my favorite thing that I do)."
Jolene O'Leary
5th Grade Teacher/PBIS Coordinator at Turtle Creek Steam Academy
Jolene O’Leary, a dedicated educator at Turtle Creek STEAM Academy, is an exemplary candidate for Educator of the Year. Her profound impact extends far beyond her fifth-grade classroom, fostering engagement among students and promoting a culture of dedication among her peers and staff.
Mrs. O’Leary is an exceptional social studies teacher who consistently employs hands-on projects to bring lessons to life, ensuring true student engagement. She often uses personal funds to secure necessary supplies, demonstrating her deep personal investment in her students' success.
Furthermore, Mrs. O’Leary serves as a vital cross-disciplinary resource for the fifth-grade team, teaching writing and providing essential math assistance in addition to her primary role. Her classroom management is second to none; she establishes high expectations for every student, consistently guiding them to meet and exceed their potential.
While her classroom work is outstanding, Mrs. O’Leary's organizing prowess elevates her to a truly special status within the Turtle Creek family. She takes the initiative to organize a high-energy event for the entire student body every single month.
These events, which have included favorites like an obstacle course, Hungry-Hungry-Hippos, and the Leprechaun Extravaganza, require considerable planning and dedication.
Mrs. O’Leary consistently dedicates her personal time outside of the school day to ensure these activities are run smoothly and successfully, creating memorable experiences for everyone. Mrs. O’Leary also extends her leadership to supporting her colleagues by establishing and leading a weekly women's group for staff. This voluntary commitment demonstrates her dedication to professional connection and personal well-being for her teammates. Lastly, Mrs. O'Leary serves as the Parents in Education liaison for the building.
Jolene O’Leary's dual impact as a classroom teacher and a leader among the staff, makes her deserving of the Educator of the Year.
"I am honored to be in the nominations," she says, "as I have seen a number of amazing educators nominated over the last few years."
Sara Rodgers
1st Grade Teacher
Wilkins STEAM Academy
Mrs. Rodgers impact on students, colleagues, and the school community is both remarkable and deeply inspiring. She demonstrates daily what it means to be an exceptional educator—one who teaches not only content, but compassion, confidence, and resilience.
She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and capable of success. She creates a classroom environment where curiosity is encouraged, mistakes are welcomed as part of growth, and students are challenged to think critically and believe in themselves. Her teaching reflects a deep understanding of both content and the unique needs of each learner, and she continuously adapts instructional strategies to help students thrive.
Beyond the classroom, she is a leader who strengthens the school community. She collaborates with colleagues and PTA, while contributing innovative ideas that elevate the school. Her dedication extends to families as well, building strong relationships that foster trust, communication, and shared investment in student success.
What truly sets Mrs. Rodgers apart is her heart. She teaches with passion, patience, and unwavering commitment. Students leave her class not only with greater knowledge, but with confidence, hope, and a belief that they matter.
"I am not convinced that I should be the 2026 Distinguished Educator of the Year," she writes. "But what I do know is that 20 years after getting my teaching certificate, I still believe that my role as an educator is to help my kids learn academically, but also to be well-rounded, productive citizens of our world. I have spent countless sleepless nights worrying about my students, grieving with them as they have lost family members, and days upon days of making memories that I will never forget. Sometimes I probably love and care too much, so much that it hurts, but I want
each student that I come in contact with to know that they are loved and encouraged to be the best version of themselves possible. I have made lasting connections with my kids and their families over the years, and that has been my greatest reward!"
Andrea Sisk
Math Teacher; K-12 Math Department Chairwoman
Ms. Sisk loves and breathes teaching. She is a woodland hills grad and has pretty much devoted her life to her alma mater. This link to the article below is one example of how Ms. Sisk goes above and beyond for the students of Woodland Hills.
In addition, Ms. Sisk was the executive producer of the Woodland Hills Musical for over a decade and chaperoned trips to Broadway for Woodland Hills theater students for many years. She cares about every student and continues to follow their careers after high school, even traveling out of state to watch former students in their performing gigs in college, community theater and professionally, often without even telling them she's coming. I know how much my kids, who never even had her as a teacher appreciated all she did for them as a part of the musical staff. Ms. Sisk can be stern, but she is fair and looks out for all students.
Ms. Sisk writes, "I am a proud alumna and resident of Woodland Hills and enjoy supporting current and former students, whether at a football game in Westmoreland County, a lunch visit in New York’s Penn Station, or a musical in Akron. As my nominator mentioned, I have devoted my life to teaching at Woodland Hills. The relationships mentioned in my nomination begin in high school, where I try to support each individual student’s interests and goals, not only by attending their extracurricular events, but also by learning about what motivates them, so I can help them make important connections between their lives and math. Those relationships bloom when my students realize they are learning topics they thought impossible to master.
In the last several years in particular, I have worked diligently to be a leader and voice for our staff. Through this work with trusted colleagues and our High School administration, I have helped make changes in our school’s operations, including offering Academic Support tutoring during the school day (with math support during all lunch periods!); creating the model for school-wide benchmark reflection; and developing a procedure for student accountability when missing classes for field trips.
I currently serve as the Chair of the Math Department. Much of my time outside of the classroom is spent researching, making connections with various organizations and personnel, attending professional development sessions, and scheming for improvements in our math programs, instruction, and resources. Last spring, I worked with our administrators to have all Dickson and High School math teachers attend a training on the Desmos Activity Builder, a technology tool. That, coupled with my Desmos problem of the month, has led to more than 70% of teachers in the department using more and varied technology tools to reach more students. One teacher reported, “That may have been the best professional development I have had in such a long time.”"
In 2025, Ms. Sisk earned her English as a Second Language Certification, helping her to better serve the students and staff at Woodland Hills High School. She was featured in the Fall 2024 issue of the Carnegie Magazine, which highlights Ms. Sisk’s work with the Carnegie Museum of Art. Through that work, her students view math through various lenses, including 2- and 3-dimensional art, culminating in field trips to the Museum. Ms. Sisk was voted the Scribo Ambassador of the year by her colleagues in 2023-2024. In 2021, she and Mr. Kevin McGuire were awarded the Mathical Book Prize on behalf of Woodland Hills.
"In October," she writes, "I led a training session for all Woodland Hills students taking the SATs, PSATs, and AP math and science tests to learn tips and tricks for the new calculator that is now embedded into all of those standardized tests. I have also led professional development workshops in technology integration in the math classroom, and in teaching both English Language Learners and LGBTQIA+ students. Earlier this year, I was a part of the District’s Comprehensive Planning Committee.
Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering with organizations such as Quantum Theater and the Handmade Arcade. I have worked with the Pittsburgh CLO to incorporate a STEAM perspective into their Gallery of Heroes program.
As my nominator mentioned, I served the Department of Performing Arts from 2005 to 2023 - often as the Executive Producer of Junior and Senior Musicals, but also to High School ensemble classes and the Marching Band as the program creator, publicist, ticket-taker, bake sale-manager, chaperone, field-trip planner, and even seam ripper, ironer, and occasional painter. I co-founded and sat on the board of the Woodland Hills Performing Arts Guild from its inception in 2019 through May 2023, where I produced two Alumni Musicals."
Michelle Sperduto
Second Grade Teacher, Wilkins
Ms. Sperduto’s ability to gain the respect of both her students and the parents of her students is demonstrated daily.
She goes above and beyond where her students are concerned. Her 30 years of teaching experience is exemplified by the way she is able to assess the individual needs of all her students and help them to learn not only the required curriculum but also to help them navigate and learn interpersonal skills such as good manners and conflict resolution.
Many times Ms. Sperduto has sent a packet of learning materials home which was designed to help/challenge my son in achieving a higher level of learning. She does this for all her students, tailoring each packet to their individual needs.
Her availability to me and to other parents allows for the best possible interaction which ensures that their children’s needs and goals are always met and a priority. If I’ve needed to discuss any matters concerning my son, Ms. Sperduto has always contacted me in a timely manner and with genuine concern and enthusiasm. She is very attentive to my son’s needs and helps me, as a parent, to design a game plan which can be supported both at home and school.
Ms. Sperduto adds, "I have been a supporter and attended the gala. I am also a alumni of the district."
Naima Karmil Sturdivant
6-8 Therapeutic Support Teacher, Dickson
Naima Karmil Sturdivant earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Point Park University. She went on to pursue a post-graduate degree, and earned a Master’s in Education, with a specialization in Special Education from Carlow University. Naima is also a graduate of the Reverend Jerome Stevenson Bible School, which is a subsidiary of the Harty Bible School.
She is a dedicated public school teacher in the Woodland Hills School District, and the Vice President of the non-profit organization, “Triple S–Serving and Saving Souls.” Naima has 15 years of experience in diverse learning environments, including public, Catholic, and alternative schools. In her current role, she is a teacher in a Full-Time Emotional Support classroom. Her extensive experience has given her a deep understanding of student development, and a passion for building inclusive and supportive classrooms.
Combining her professional passion for education with her commitment to community service, she is a force for positive change both inside and outside the classroom. As an educator, she is known for her engaging teaching style and her ability to build meaningful relationships with students, helping them to reach their full potential.
By day, she helps shape young minds and build a supportive environment for students. Outside of school, she works tirelessly with six other members of Triple S to offer Christ-centered care, love, food, prayer, clothing, hygiene products, and other resources to the unhoused and under-served population in the Pittsburgh area.
With a firm belief that love is a universal language that all can understand, Naima allows love to guide her in her role as an educator, as well as the work that she does in the community. Her profound compassion for humanity is the driving force that fuels her work to break barriers in education and homelessness.
Naima's nominator writes, "Ms. Sturdivant has been in my life for a very long time, she has been teaching me since kindergarten, first grade, and fourth grade and now. She has taught me things I haven't known. I want her to be nominated for all the good things she has done."
Erin Wall
AP English 11, English Honors 10, English 11 and Student Summit Founder
Ms. Wall is a treasured teacher at the WHHS (English and AP English) and the founder of the Woodland Hills Multi-District Student Summit. Her summit has grown to include 30 school districts and gives our students an avenue to voice their concerns about subjects that affect them in the world (police relations, racial issues, gun violence, LGTBQ, mental health, etc.) She seamlessly coordinates hundreds of students every year to produce an acclaimed summit that focuses on "UNITY in a period of division".
She keeps in touch with most of her Woodland Hills student leaders and is a source of wisdom and guidance even after graduation for many of them. It is hard to find a teacher who is compassionate INSIDE and OUTSIDE of the classroom. With her summit, she has brought wonderful recognition to our district and given our students a safe platform to express themselves.
Another one of her nominators wrote, "Ms. Wall was, and still is, an amazing teacher to us. She saw our strengths even when we couldn’t see them. She has always been a support system, a confidant, and a protector. She loves each of us for our differences and understands our faults. She is a cheerleader for us even after we graduate. After we graduate, she continues to teach, support, and show love to us. One of her greatest accomplishments is the Student Summit. When Woodland Hills was faced with the devastating loss of a student, she allowed her sadness to become her strength, her guidance, her wisdom, and once again her teaching. The Student Summit connects students from all walks of life to have conversations, gain understanding, and provide support. To know her is to love her. I am proud and amazed by her guidance, love, strength, and perseverance. Ms. Wall truly is the definition of a Distinguished Educator and deserves this moment of recognition by all." Another writes,"Her award is overdue, at this point hundreds of students who have been apart of or have been impacted behind something she has poured her heart into."
Upon being nominated, Ms. Wall reflected, "I believe so many of my colleagues deserve this honor. The Woodland Hills community of educators serve as one of the hardest working groups of individuals, who I have had the
pleasure of working with for twenty years."
She continued, "For over twenty years, I have had the privilege to serve as a brick in the foundation of the Woodland Hills community. In my tenure, we have experienced the evolution of cell phones, the move from paper and pencil to chromebooks, and the weight and struggle of a global pandemic. The unbearable loss of members of our student body is a weight far too many of us carry. I am honored to stand alongside colleagues who consistently unite their strengths to support every member of our community through education, extracurricular activities, and athletics. During one pivotal moment of change, I decided to channel tragedy into a movement. By relying on the very attributes that define our community—leadership, empathy, endurance, and perseverance—I, along with several of my outstanding colleagues, established the Woodland Hills Multi-District Student Summit. This program highlights our strengths while simultaneously impacting over 200 adult teachers, experts, and community members as well as over 300 youth from rural, urban, and suburban communities. In a period of unprecedented division, I work to create a safe space of growth and intellectual discovery in my classroom and throughout Western Pennsylvania."
William Wilson
Third Grade Teacher, Wilkins
Few educators embody the heart, history, and spirit of a school district as deeply as William Wilson. He has been a part of this district since kindergarten and brings a unique and inspiring perspective to his work—one rooted in genuine connection, lived experience, and lifelong dedication to the community he now serves.
"As a former student turned outstanding educator," he writes, "I understand the district not only as a workplace, but as a place that once nurtured my own curiosity, growth, and love of learning. This personal history shines through in everything I do. Students feel seen because I remember what it felt like to sit where they sit. Families trust me because I am woven into the fabric of the community. Colleagues admire me because I model the very values our district strives to uphold."
"In the classroom, I create an environment where every student feels capable and valued," he continues. "My lessons are engaging, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed to support a wide range of learners. I consistently go above and beyond—offering extra help, celebrating student achievements, and building strong relationships that motivate students to exceed their own expectations."
"Beyond instruction, I am a leader among staff: a reliable collaborator, a supportive mentor, and I bring positivity and purpose to every project I join. My long history with the district gives me insight into what our community needs and how we can continue to grow. Whether participating in committees, organizing school events, or helping shape new initiatives, I contribute with humility, creativity, and unwavering commitment."
Mr. Wilson represents the very best of who we are as a district—someone who was shaped by this community and now gives back to it with passion, excellence, and heart. For these reason sand many more he deserves to be recognized.
One of his nominators wrote, "My son has got to have Mr. Wilson for 2 years now and he absolutely loves him! My son has learned so much and completely came out of his shell thanks to the comfort level he feels in Mr. Wilson's class. Mr. Wilson has definitely had a huge impact on my son and I am forever grateful for how he continues to encourage and mentor my son."