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Rockwood Celebrates Our 2024 ROSE Award Recipients

Rockwood Celebrates Our 2024 ROSE Award Recipients

On Thursday, Feb. 29, the ROSE Award patrol crisscrossed the district to honor this year’s 15 recipients of the prestigious ROSE Award.

The ROSE Award honors the best of Rockwood. More than 220 nominations were submitted for this year's ROSE Awards, with stories highlighting excellence of character, leadership, performance and extraordinary service to Rockwood. 

On Feb. 29, ROSE committee chairs set out with balloons and roses to surprise the 15 individuals chosen by the ROSE Selection Committee to receive one of the district's greatest honors.

ROSE recipients will be recognized at a special ceremony and dinner on Sunday, May 5, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Chesterfield -- along with Cornerstone recipients, Teachers of the Year, Service Award honorees and retirees.

Congratulations, ROSE Award recipients! See their photos below, along with a quote from one of their nominators.


Angela Albrecht, band director, Rockwood South Middle

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Angela keeps students engaged and puts students’ needs and interests first. She does her best to lead selflessly and with kindness."


Mario Cacioppo, assistant boys soccer coach, Rockwood Summit High

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

"His energy, positive attitude and support of our program have undoubtedly helped propel our team spirit and success to new heights each season."


Debra Carcamo, ESOL teacher, Crestview Middle

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Every time I see her in the hallway, she always has a smile on her face and is genuinely happy to be at school working with kids. She will always make time for a student or staff member.”


Mike Digman, Metro West Fire Protection District deputy chief/community member

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

"Mike has continued to work to support Rockwood and our community not only as a firefighter/paramedic but as a parent and community member in the district."


Mike Ebert, language arts teacher/track coach, Marquette High

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Mike has a unique and genuine way of making people feel important when they approach him." 


Beth Ehrhart-Collier, special education Empower teacher, Marquette

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Beth has an extraordinary ability to create rapport with students. She adjusts lessons in a creative way to highlight the learning strengths of each student.”


Debbie Fox, third-grade teacher, Wild Horse Elementary

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Debbie tailors her lessons to students’ needs, fostering connection with each child and their families. She offers advice, listens patiently and builds lasting relationships.”


Mary Pat Gilliam, special education social worker, schools in the Fenton quadrant

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“She puts her heart into every student’s social-emotional well-being and needs in efforts to create an atmosphere where the student feels valued, supported, safe and respected."


Jen Guntli, special education teacher, Crestview and Rockwood Valley Middle

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Jen goes above and beyond to understand and connect with each student, focusing on their needs, mental health and well-being."


Stefanie Hruby, math teacher, Lafayette High

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Mrs. Hruby is more than a teacher. She is a mentor and someone who I strive to be like. She is welcoming and always willing to help.”


Kathy Loesche, special education teacher, Pathways Wellness Center

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Mrs. Loesche ensures that her students are taken care of. “Her students are loved, lifted up, seen, nurtured and taught to believe in themselves.” 


Kellie Morgan, secretarial assistant, Ridge Meadows Elementary

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Kellie has a heart of gold, gives her all and will always stop what she is doing for the happiness of others.” 


Gayle Piepho, math teacher, Rockwood Summit

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Gayle is genuine and kind to those around her. She is driven to modify and perfect her teaching in order for her students to learn best.”


Dan Pozzo, fifth-grade teacher, Westridge Elementary

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“As a role model for his students, he prioritizes how students treat each other and emphasizes compassion and respect at all times." 


Dr. Hector Ramirez, principal, Blevins Elementary

A Rose Award winner smiles in their school.

“Hector’s empathetic approach allows him to connect deeply with others, understand their aspirations and guide them with genuine care and respect."

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Congratulations, Rockwood Class of 2025!

Rockwood School District celebrated our more than 1,600 graduates in the Class of 2025 at commencement ceremonies on May 10 and 12 at the Family Arena in St. Charles.