Throughout the 2026-27 school year, each month employees and educators at Garrett-Keyser-Butler will be recognized for exemplary work in that month's Character Counts pillar.
For the month of September, the Character Counts pillar was FAIRNESS.
The honorees each month will receive the Silver Railroad Spike, that carries with it the term 'Strong Together, Driven Forward.' Those recipients will then choose another GKB employee the following month for showing the virtues of that respective time period's Character Counts pillar.
Here are September's honorees along with a note written about them by their building/staff member who passed on the Silver Railroad Spike from the previous month.
Todd Nodine - J.E. Ober Elementary
Todd showcases Fairness every day in how he meets some of our most challenging students to meet their needs and ensure they truly have a FAIR opportunity to learn. A specific instance of this was last week, when a student, who requires adult 1:1 faced the reality of being unable to attend a field trip due to that 1:1 adult from home being unable to attend. Todd stepped in as this student's 1:1 and helped the student to not only be included, but to thrive and learn on that day's trip.
Thank you, Todd, for the example of fairness you are to all of us every day of the week.
Alex Saxer - Garett Middle School
Mr. Saxer has a remarkable ability to connect with students. His impact reaches far beyond his seventh-grade reading classroom. In fact, when former students are asked to name their favorite teacher, many of our high school students still name Mr. Saxer—a wonderful testament to the lasting relationships he builds and the way he makes students feel.
He believes every student deserves a place where they belong. That belief is evident in the time he gives after school to lead both Book Club and Game Club, creating opportunities for students to connect, have fun, discover new interests, and simply enjoy being part of something.
Fairness also shows itself in the way Mr. Saxer treats others. He is often the first person to step up when someone needs help, willingly giving his time, encouragement, and support without expecting anything in return. Whether it is a student who needs a little extra encouragement, a colleague who needs a helping hand, or someone who simply needs to know that they matter, Mr. Saxer is there.
Just like a railroad spike helps keep the tracks aligned and moving in the right direction, Mr. Saxer helps make sure our students have a path forward. He reminds us that fairness isn't about giving everyone the exact same thing—it is about making sure everyone has the opportunity to feel valued, supported, and successful.
Mr. Saxer, thank you for the countless ways you make a difference in the lives of our students and staff. Thank you for seeing the value in every student, for creating places where they can belong, and for always being willing to help. You are a wonderful example of Fairness, and we are proud to honor you with the September Railroad Spike!
Shannon Swonger - Garrett High School
In every facet of her role, Shannon truly exemplifies the Fairness pillar of character. Fairness is not about treating every student exactly the same; rather, it is about ensuring that every single student receives the specific tools, equity, and opportunities they need to achieve their full potential. Shannon lives this philosophy every day.
Her commitment to fairness is most clearly seen in her unique ability to individualize student academics. Shannon recognizes that every student walks into her classroom with different strengths, backgrounds, and learning styles. Instead of enforcing a one-size-fits-all curriculum, she invests the time and energy required to tailor her educational approach to the individual. By meeting students exactly where they are, she creates an equitable learning environment where success is accessible to all, ensuring no student is left behind or overlooked.
Beyond the traditional classroom, Shannon extends this commitment to equity by actively breaking down barriers to student advancement. She demonstrates an unwavering dedication to finding growth and leadership opportunities for her students through her involvement with the National Honor Society (NHS) and Educators Rising. Through these organizations, Shannon acts as a champion for student potential. She ensures that diverse student voices have a seat at the table, helping them discover pathways to scholarships, community service, and future careers in education.
Shannon Swonger does not just teach character; she models it. Her deep sense of fairness, paired with her tireless advocacy for individual student growth, makes her an invaluable asset to Garrett High School. She is shaping not only successful students but also well-rounded, principled citizens.
Jennifer Kennedy - GKB District
Congratulations to GKB Custodian Jenny Kennedy for receiving the September Classified Staff Railroad Spike Award for the Character Counts trait of Fairness!
This month, our focus is Fairness- and our September honoree reminds us that fairness can be demonstrated in quiet, everyday ways through kindness, dependability and making sure others are cared for.
For 36 years, Jenny has faithfully served our school district, and she continues to go above and beyond every single day. Her job may be to keep our school clean, but she does so much more than that. Jenny is one of the first to step up and help cover areas that need attention when other custodians are absent. She has a special way of making our school feel welcoming. Throughout the years, she takes the time to decorate classrooms and trophy cases for holidays and special occasions, adding those little touches that make our school feel cared for and special.
Perhaps what makes Jenny most deserving of this recognition is the kindness she shows to our students and staff. She is quiet, dependable and genuinely cares about the people she serves. She doesn’t do these things for recognition or attention. In fact, being in the spotlight may be the last thing she would choose. Yet sometimes the people who quietly make the biggest difference are the ones who deserve to be noticed the most.
Just like a railroad spike quietly holds the tracks together, Jenny holds our school community together. You may not seek the spotlight, but today we want you to know that your work matters, your kindness matters and you matter to our school family.
We are proud to honor you with the September Classified Staff Railroad Spike!