The Fort Dodge Community School District has named its February students and employee of the month. This program recognizes one elementary, one middle school and one high school student, as well as one staff member monthly for exceeding expectations.

Azarion Preston-Grady is the Elementary Student of the Month. Collin Boekhoff and Dana Recker both nominated Preston-Grady. They shared that he is working hard and it is showing in his reading and math skills. He doesn’t give up when things get tough and knows what tools and supports he needs to use. He is also willing to ask for help when he needs it. His positive attitude is helping students in his classroom build growth mindsets, which he already has. Preston-Grady is a sweet, funny, bright and bubbly kid who loves to have fun with his classmates. Recker and Boekhoff said, “While some things have not come easy for Azarion, he has put in the work this year and gained skills that have helped him make amazing progress this year. We are amazed at his bravery and courage to make his voice heard. We are so proud of him and can’t wait to see what he does next.” He is the son of Keyonna Preston.

Aidin Grady is the Middle School Student of the Month. Aaron Miller nominated Grady. Miller said Grady collaborates with others, will work with any student and serves as a leader by keeping fellow students on task. He asks clarifying questions and ensures his work is not only done, but done well. Grady has a calming influence with his peers.

“Aidin is deserving of this honor because of his leadership skills,” Miller concluded. “He serves as a leader with his willingness to include others in his group and through his willingness to listen and share his ideas equally.” He is the son of Chris and Makinzy Grady.

Ryan Madden is the Senior High Student of the Month. Kiley O’Leary nominated Madden. O’Leary said Madden works hard and excels academically in all classes as well as in the extracurricular activities he is involved in. She said while he is unsure what he wants to do in the future and took her class with no real interest in health care, he is now considering just that. She shared that after some conversations, he is spending some time outside of school hours to explore his interests and possible careers. Madden is kind, positive and willing to talk to anyone. He takes on many challenges and manages to balance them all.

“Ryan shows the responsibility of an adult while keeping his fun loving attitude of a kid,” O’Leary said. “He is an active listener, leader and role model in his classes and activities.” He is the son of Terry and Julie Madden.

Jamie Harmon is the Employee of the Month. Shannon Grossnickle nominated Harmon. Grossnickle said Harmon ensures that both her students’ academic and emotional needs are met. She shows up day after day so her students get the consistency they need. Just like her students, her grade level team knows they can count on her. They said she is an amazing collaborator who isn’t afraid to voice her opinion about what is best for students. Harmon models good character and kindness through her daily interactions with her students and the staff. She has experienced a lot in her short teaching career (pandemic with a school closure, hybrid learning and the loss of a student) and has handled it all with grace. “Ms. Harmon has the maturity and knowledge of a veteran teacher even though she’s only been teaching for a short time,” Grossnickle said. “She is the true definition of what it means to be a teacher, someone who is nurturing and kind.”