Cape Honors Outstanding Staff Members with GEM Awards For the Month of December

The Cape Henlopen School District and the Board of Education is proud to recognize four exceptional staff members whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to students exemplify the spirit of service that defines the district. This month’s honorees include four recipients, two from Frederick D. Thomas Middle School and two from Lewes Elementary. All four were honored at the December 11 Board of Education Regular Meeting held at Frederick D. Thomas Middle School.

School Resource Officer, Cpl. Nicholas Yatsko

School Resource Officer Nick Yatsko has been honored for his outstanding dedication to the safety, well-being, and daily experience of students and staff. A consistent and positive presence in the hallways, classrooms, and lunch periods, Officer Yatsko has become a beloved figure across three buildings, Frederick D. Thomas Middle School (FTMS), Lewes Elementary School (LES), and the Fred Thomas Building.

His daily trivia challenges and signature Jolly Rancher rewards have grown into a student favorite, building trust and creating joyful moments that enhance school culture. “Officer Yatsko plays a critical role in maintaining safety and security and was instrumental in the development of the Fred Thomas safety and security plan,” said school principal Elyse Baerga. “He’s been an incredible asset to our team both with his uplifting presence, and with his unwavering commitment to supporting students, staff, and administration. He embodies what it means to ‘go the extra mile.’”

Substitute Teacher, Emily Mountain

Long-term substitute Ms. Emily Mountain has been recognized for her extraordinary flexibility, professionalism, and dedication to Frederick D. Thomas Middle School. Ms. Mountain has seamlessly stepped into multiple classroom roles, teaching both 7th grade math and 8th grade science, with strong curriculum knowledge and a positive, solutions-focused approach.

“Ms. Mountain is always willing to adapt to the needs of the school,” said principal Elyse Baerga. “Emily contributes meaningfully to team collaboration and student success. Her reliability, strong work ethic, and commitment to creating effective learning experiences make her an invaluable member of the school community.”

Computer Lab Manager Megan Kellman

Ms. Megan Kellman, Lewes Elementary School’s Computer Lab Manager, has been honored for her creativity, leadership, and dedication to the LES community. Formerly a parent and PTO president, Ms. Kellman now brings innovation and energy to her staff role, launching online morning announcements that actively engage students and taking on leadership of the school yearbook.

“With a background in education as a former teacher in Alexandria, Virginia, Ms. Kellman brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her work,” said school principal Dr. Kimberly Corbidge. “Whether supporting students in the lab or assisting with schoolwide initiatives, she is always willing to lend a hand.” Outside of school, she helps run her family’s business, Lewes Cycle Sports Bike Shop, yet continues to pour her heart into creating an engaging and supportive environment for all students.

Substitute, Cameron Smith

Ms. Cameron Smith is being recognized for her outstanding service as a substitute teacher at Lewes Elementary. Serving as both a day-to-day and long-term substitute, she successfully led a third-grade class at the end of last year and a second-grade class at the start of this year, both during maternity leaves.

“Ms. Smith has built meaningful relationships with students and families and has become a dependable, trusted presence in the school,” said principal Dr. Kimberly Corbidge. “She consistently went above and beyond, attending professional development sessions voluntarily to strengthen her practice and better support students. Her positivity, commitment, and dedication to growth exemplify the qualities of a GEM.” The district is confident she will make an exceptional full-time teacher in the future.

These four individuals represent the best of the Cape Henlopen School District, professionals who consistently exceed expectations, support one another, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of students every day! We are grateful to have such outstanding individuals as members of our team here at Cape.