In an effort to recognize the accomplishments and efforts of a community contributor who goes “above and beyond,” the Mason Schools Foundation established the Campbell Family Founder’s Award in honor of Ken and Joan Campbell and their family. The Campbell and Leffler families’ initial generosity, innovation and vision led to the creation of the Mason Schools Foundation.
Each year, community members are invited to nominate individuals who go above and beyond their job descriptions, whether they be volunteers or paid employees, to support Mason City Schools. An annual recipient is selected by the Mason Schools Foundation Board and awarded at the gala in the Fall.
2020 Award Recipient – Deena Little, MI Teacher
Mrs. Little exemplifies the values of the Mason Schools Foundation and continually goes above and beyond to support Mason City Schools. For over two decades Mrs. Little has dedicated herself to Mason City Schools, both in and out of the classroom. She started her career with Mason 21 years ago as a fourth grade teacher and went on to become a team leader. Deena is currently a gifted teacher at Mason Intermediate Elementary School where she works hard to challenge her students daily and to play to areas of their interest.
Mrs. Little‘s love for Mason City Schools continued even when taking a break from teaching to raise her three children with husband Darin. She has continually gone above and beyond in supporting the schools, not only as a teacher, but also as a parent and volunteer over the years. MSF is thrilled to be able to honor her with this award!
2020 Award Recipient – Amy Hammond, ME Teacher
Mrs. Hammond is a 4th grade gifted teacher at Mason Elementary School. She is currently teaching remotely from home to our online learners. She has taught in grade levels 2nd through 12th and has thoroughly enjoyed each and every classroom she has been in. Mrs. Hammond said, “I go into work every single morning excited to be there. I feel very blessed that this is the path I am on and I am very lucky that this is what I get to do every day!”
There is no question that Amy Hammond exemplifies the values of the Mason Schools Foundation and continually goes above and beyond to support Mason City Schools promoting academic excellence. This is why we are thrilled to honor her with this award!
Past Founder’s Award Recipients
2019 Recipient: Mary-Ellen Theisen, MHS Hope Squad and Special Education Aide
2018 Recipients: The Peraino’s, Founding Board Members
2017 Recipient: Coach Wheeler, Mason Middle School Boys Cross Country Coach
2016 Recipient: Laurie Mitroff, Mason Make a Difference Day Leader
2015 Recipient: Greg Scheid, King Island Vice President
2014 Recipient: Dale Moberly, Mason Intermediate School 5th grade teacher
2012 Recipient: John Odell (posthumous) Mason School Board member, and Tracey & David Beckman, Mason City Schools Whiz Kids volunteers
2011 Recipient: Michelle Krugh, Mason Intermediate School Guidance Counselor
2010 Recipient: Cynthia Handy, Mason Intermediate School 5th grade teacher
2009 Recipient: Rosemary Wells, Mason City Schools parent volunteer, Backpack Program Founder
2008 Recipient: Joan and Ken Campbell, Mason City Schools grandparents