Monroe Middle School

Josh Pizzica, a gifted teacher, is also a leader on campus who makes important contributions to students and staff. We are proud to announce that Mr. Pizzica is not only the MMS Teacher of the Year, but is also the CUSD District Teacher of the Year! He has high expectations for student behavior and academics, and he creates a classroom environment in which students are supported to meet these expectations. He values the relationships with students and he works to connect science instruction to real life situations.

After learning about Carol Dweck’s research on Growth Mindset Theory, Mr. Pizzica was inspired and revamped his teaching practices, and explained to students how intelligence is not fixed; it can grow. He also shared his findings with the staff and many staff members adopted versions of the mindset practices and grading strategies. In addition, Mr. Pizzica teaches AVID and is the AVID site coordinator, as well as our PBIS facilitator. As a PBIS team member, he has helped lead professional development for the staff in how to reinforce positive student behavior in the classroom. We are proud of Mr. Pizzica's accomplishments and his dedication to the students and staff at Monroe!  Mr. Pizzica is pictured with Dr. Eric Andrew, our CUSD Superintendent.

Monroe is proud to announce that Carmen Koerner, our Attendance Clerk is our Classified Employee of the Year! She maintains excellent records for over 950 students that has allowed us to track attendance more efficiently, which subsequently has lead to an increase of attendance over the past few years. Ms. Koerner also supports our uniform policy by maintaining the uniform loaner clothes and enforcing the uniform expectations while preserving positive relationships with students. She is supportive, capable and willing to do anything if it helps students, staff and Monroe!  In the picture, Dawnel Sonntag, Principal, Dr. Eric Andrew, Superintendent and Carmen Koerner our MMS Employee of the Year!