Honoring Those Who Make a Difference: Meet This Year’s Partnership Award Winners
The Partnership Plan recently surprised eight outstanding teachers and staff with a Partnership Award.
Sheri Berg- Andersen Elementary
Yoko Cheatham- Afton-Lakeland Elementary
Nancy Daigle- Lake Elmo Elementary
Shelia Folden- Rutherford Elementary
Claudia Hernandez- Oak-Land Middle School
Jon Hinzman- Stillwater Area High School
Jami Stack- Lily Lake Elementary
Justin Wilman- Stillwater Middle School
The Partnership Awards, established in 2008, recognize exceptional educators and staff in the Stillwater Area Public School district for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to students. Each year, the Partnership Plan honors eight outstanding individuals across the district. The recipients are nominated by co-workers, community members, parents, and students. A review panel of community members scores each nomination.
Recently, the recipients were surprised in their schools with the news that they were being honored. In addition to the award, each recipient designates a $1,000 award from The Partnership Plan to the school of their choice.
These amazing individuals will be celebrated at The Partnership Party.
PARTNERSHIP PARTY
Thursday, May 7, 2026
5:30-8:00 pm
Rustic Roots Winery
$25 PER PERSON
Auction: Online, runs May 1-May 7th at 7:00 pm
We hope you'll join us in honoring these amazing teachers and staff.
Meet this year’s honorees:
-
Sherri was nominated multiple times in both 2023 and again this year by parents, colleagues, and members of her school community who all shared the same message: her impact is lasting and deeply meaningful. She creates a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and excited to learn through creativity, hands-on experiences, and engaging lessons. Beyond academics, Sherri builds confidence, sparks curiosity, and inspires a true love of school. Her dedication also extends to fellow educators, as she generously shares ideas and lessons to help others succeed.
-
Yoko Cheatham was nominated twice by a total of nine people, including coworkers, parents, and former students—a reflection of the lasting impact she has made over 35 years in our district. Families described her as a teacher who helps students feel valued, confident, and capable while creating a classroom where individuality, kindness, and respect thrive. Former students shared that her lessons extended far beyond academics, shaping the people they became. Her dedication and care continue to leave a meaningful mark on generations of learners.
-
Nancy Daigle has spent the past 21 years teaching and building community in Stillwater schools, earning praise as a masterful communicator and tireless advocate. Colleagues shared how she consistently lifts others up, while families and staff highlighted her unwavering commitment to meeting each student where they are and supporting the whole child. Stories of her going above and beyond—from ensuring every student could attend a field trip to personally supporting families—reflect her deep care and dedication. To her students, she is simply someone who is always kind and always there.
From leading a school-wide kindness campaign to securing snack donations so students can focus on learning, her compassion shines through. Ms. Mitchell brings warmth, integrity, and a gentle strength to every challenge.
-
Sheila Folden has been nominated for a Partnership Award in four different years since 2020, a testament to the lasting impact she has across her school community. She is celebrated as an innovative educator who creates unique experiences in the gym while ensuring every student feels valued, capable, and encouraged. Her support extends far beyond class, as students know they can count on her encouragement at games, performances, and throughout the school day. To her students, she is not only a teacher, but a joyful and trusted presence in their lives.
-
Jon Hinzman has spent 28 years showing that education is about creating opportunities and building futures. As Work Program Coordinator, he has transformed ideas into life-changing experiences, including Pony Brew, a student-run business where students with disabilities have gained confidence and real-world skills. Jon also works tirelessly to secure jobs, transportation, and paid district positions for students, always holding them to high standards and believing in their potential. His innovation, advocacy, and determination have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students.
-
Claudia Hernandez was honored for becoming an indispensable part of her school community through her work as Family Engagement Coordinator. Colleagues described her as a tireless advocate and compassionate presence who helps multilingual families overcome barriers and feel welcomed, valued, and connected. Students shared that she is often the first person they turn to for help, encouragement, and care. Her empathy, dedication, and daily support have made an immeasurable impact on countless families.
-
Jami Stack was nominated by 16 different people who described her as a compassionate collaborator and innovative leader who supports the whole student and the whole family. Colleagues shared that she is the go-to person for both new and veteran teachers, offering guidance, encouragement, and expertise that helps everyone around her succeed. She creates classrooms where children feel calm, confident, and capable while continually embracing research-based practices to improve learning. Her leadership, passion, and unconditional care have made a powerful impact on students, staff, and the broader community.
-
Justin Wilman, an 8th-grade Spanish teacher at Stillwater Middle School, was recognized for creating a classroom where learning is filled with joy, connection, and confidence. Through engaging games, cultural celebrations, and thoughtful supports, he brings language learning to life in ways that inspire students. Colleagues and students shared that he makes everyone feel valued through the genuine care and attention he gives to each person. His impact reaches far beyond academics, making school a place where students truly want to be.