Milton Elementary Celebrates Two GEM Award Winners Recognized by Board of Education

Milton Elementary School and the Cape Henlopen School District are proud to recognize two exceptional staff members, Brianne Carruth and Colleen Baker, who were acknowledged as GEM Award winners at the Thursday, February 26 Cape Henlopen School District Board of Education meeting. The GEM (Going the Extra Mile) Award honors staff members and substitutes who demonstrate outstanding dedication, professionalism, and commitment to students.

Brianne Carruth – Substitute Teacher

Mrs. Brianne Carruth was recognized for her extraordinary impact as a substitute teacher who consistently ensures that learning continues seamlessly in the absence of a classroom teacher. Known as the “go-to” substitute among staff, Mrs. Carruth is trusted to follow lesson plans with fidelity while remaining flexible and composed when unexpected situations arise. More than maintaining instruction, she builds meaningful relationships with students, creating a classroom environment where they feel seen, valued, and supported both academically and emotionally.

“Mrs. Carruth is far more than a substitute teacher, she is a trusted instructional partner and a steady presence in our building,” said the Dr. Clara Conn, principal of Milton Elementary. “When she steps into a classroom, learning never skips a beat. Our students genuinely light up when they see her, which speaks volumes about the relationships she builds and the care she brings to her work.”

Colleen Baker – Paraprofessional

Mrs. Colleen Baker, paraprofessional, was also honored as a GEM Award recipient for her unwavering dedication to students and her commitment to inclusion.

Whether serving in a specialized setting or as a 1:1 paraprofessional, Mrs. Baker approaches each day with patience, professionalism, and heart. She works with students who have diverse and unique needs, always putting the best interest of the child first. She intentionally creates opportunities for students to learn alongside their peers and focuses on what they can achieve, consistently encouraging growth and confidence. In addition to her direct student support, Mrs. Baker is known for her team-first mindset. If her assigned student is absent, she immediately looks for ways to assist other classrooms and staff members without hesitation.

“Mrs. Baker truly embodies what it means to go the extra mile,” said Dr. Conn. “Her compassion, work ethic, and commitment to inclusion make a lasting difference in the lives of our students every single day. She sees potential in every child and works tirelessly to help them realize it.”

Milton Elementary School and the Cape Henlopen School District congratulates both Mrs. Carruth and Mrs. Baker on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their continued dedication to students and the school community.