By Emma Johns

BRIGHTON — Very few professions impact as many people as teaching does. Educators give to communities every day in many different ways.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School hosted an appreciation banquet May 6 at the Brighton Veteran’s Building to honor teachers and staff for their dedication and commitment to the educational success of students.

Among those recognized were this year’s teachers of the year: Heather Dobbs, elementary teacher of the year; Kelly Bass, middle school teacher of the year; Jennie Shore, cultural employee of the year; and Holly Sheffield, non-instructional employee of the year.

“It is my pleasure to be part of a fantastic school that does wonderful things,” said principal Brian Greseth as he presented their awards.

At Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School, staff members pride themselves on the level of camaraderie shared and contribute to the school’s success.

“We are a group, a family and team, and people are taking notice,” said Dobbs, a fifth-grade teacher.

“Teaching is a passion, love for children and those moments when you know you have made a difference,” added middle school language arts teacher Malissa Morgan. “Sometimes those moments do not occur immediately and take a few years to realize. Teaching is a family and the students and staff at PECS are the epitome of a family.”

Middle school ESE and reading teacher Melodie Smith said she commits herself to PECS and education because it has been a lifelong dream. She said she’s wanted to be a teacher since the second grade.

“Teaching at PECS is a blessing in itself. I am able to teach students and continue to be an integral part of their life for several years. It is so exciting to see their faces as they grow and mature and to know that I was fortunate enough to be a small part of that process,” Smith said.

PECS recently received an award for being one of the top charter schools in the state. It is because of the leadership and dedication of teachers and staff on a daily basis that the school earned the award.

“Even though it may not be shown on a daily basis, the hard work, enthusiasm and love for the students is greatly appreciated by the Brighton community,” said Lewis Gopher, Parent Teacher Student Organization president.