Mrs. Abby Palmer, center, holds a check she received from Pella after receiving the Staff Member of the Month Award. The award was presented Wednesday, January 29, during band class.

Mrs. Abby Palmer, Rock Port band/music teacher, was recently awarded the Pella Corporation Staff Member of the Month Award. Representatives of Pella were at the Rock Port School Wednesday, January 29, to make the presentation.

Pella Corporation, Shenandoa, Iowa, in partnership with Pella Rolscreen Foundation (the corporation’s charitable arm) recently announced the inaugural year of the Pella Corporation Staff Member of the Month Award. The purpose of the award is to recognize the outstanding educators and support personnel in school systems who provide excellent education, instruction, coaching and a nurturing environment for area students.

The award covers all of the school districts from which Pella draws team members. Currently, they draw team members from Glenwood to Rock Port, Nebraska City to Clarinda, and all areas in between. A student, parent, teacher, or members of the community can nominate a staff member by describing the outstanding work and service they provide students. The nominations are then collected, reviewed and the winner is chosen.

The winners receive a plaque commemorating the honor, a mug and a check for $250 to be used in the classroom/office depending on their role.