This week, we’re excited to celebrate Señor Joel Durán, 1st grade Spanish DLI teacher at Leesburg Elementary, for the joy and inspiration he brings to students and staff. #WarsawUnites

Señor Durán received multiple nominations for the passion and care he provides for those around him. One colleague shared, “Joel teaches with exuberance and passion, yet he makes each person on his team and surrounding staff feel special. When it’s our birthdays, he organizes a birthday lunch and makes the main dish personally for us.”

But his impact goes far beyond the team. One parent shared, “He poured into Keagan and absolutely ignited his passion for anything relating to Puerto Rico and Spanish. Keagan now wants to live in Puerto Rico one day because of the influence of Joel.” The parent added that their son was so connected to Señor Durán that “he cried when school was over because he wouldn't get to see him during the summer.”

Whether he’s organizing grade-level theme days, sharing resources with colleagues, or giving up his own lunch to spend time with students, Señor Durán lives out what it means to lead with love and purpose.

Thank you, Señor Durán, for uniting your team, inspiring your students and making a lasting impact in our WCS community!

Glad you asked! Every two weeks, Warsaw Community Schools unites in their Tiger Tuesday shirts and we take the time to surprise and celebrate an individual who unites others.

Recipients are honored with a small gift, a video highlight, and the joy of being recognized in front of their peers. These moments shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to bring people together, support others, and spread positive energy across our schools.

If you know someone who is dedicated to bringing people together, supporting others, and spreading positive energy throughout our community... we want to know! Submit a nomination below.