Friends of Education Award

The Board of Education honored Mrs. Trish Kilpin, Director of the Wisconsin Office of School Safety, as the 2025 Friend of Education Award recipient.

Mrs. Kilpin played a pivotal role in supporting the Mount Horeb Area School District following the events of May 1. Her leadership, empathy, and commitment to school safety helped guide and support our students, staff, and community during a difficult time. Known for her thoughtful, evidence-based recommendations, Mrs. Kilpin works tirelessly to support school districts across Wisconsin alongside the Office of School Safety team.

As part of her work with Speak Up, Speak Out (SUSO), confidential tips can be submitted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help protect individuals who may be in danger. Learn more at speakup.widoj.gov.

The Board of Education recognized Mr. Terry Kurth and Mrs. Kathy Kurth as the 2024 Friends of Education Award recipients for their exceptional support of students, staff, and the Mount Horeb community.

The Kurths have demonstrated unwavering dedication to the district through their generous contributions of time, resources, and expertise. Their commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering a positive learning environment has made a lasting impact on the Mount Horeb Area School District.

The Board of Education recognized Mrs. Rachel LaCasse-Ford, Executive Director of the Mount Horeb Chamber of Commerce, as the 2022–2023 Friend of Education Award recipient.

Through her leadership, Rachel has been instrumental in bringing together village, business, and district leaders to collaborate on workforce development and community partnerships. This collaboration, known as the Community Coalition, meets quarterly to strengthen connections and better serve the community. Her efforts have helped build meaningful partnerships that benefit both students and the broader Mount Horeb community.

The Board of Education honored the staff of Mount Horeb Family Pharmacy, represented by Mr. Matt GcGowan, for their outstanding partnership with the district.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mount Horeb Pharmacy worked closely with school officials to provide testing for students and staff. When vaccines became available, they also partnered with the district to host vaccination clinics for those who chose to participate. Their collaboration exemplifies the power of strong community partnerships in supporting student and staff well-being.

The 2021 Friends of Education Award recognized the district’s 4K community partners:

• Academy of Little Vikings

• Agape Christian Preschool

• Children’s Community School

• Hearts and Hands

During the challenges of the pandemic, these partners demonstrated tremendous flexibility and commitment to early childhood education. Their collaboration ensured that young learners in the Mount Horeb community continued to receive high-quality early learning experiences. The partnership was further strengthened through the leadership of the district’s 4K Coordinator, Mrs. Nicole Tepe.

The Board of Education honored the Mount Horeb Public Library staff and Director Ms. Jessica Williams for their continued partnership with the district.

From providing early literacy opportunities for young learners to offering a safe after-school space for teens and serving as a community resource during emergencies, the library staff consistently supports students and families. Their dedication to learning and community service embodies the spirit of the Friends of Education Award.

The Board recognized Ms. Jessie Shiveler as a Friend of Education for her compassionate support of students, families, and staff through her work with Agrace Hospice.

Ms. Shiveler provided one-on-one counseling, student group support, and professional learning for staff. Her work helped bring comfort and guidance to the school community during times when it was needed most.

The Board of Education honored four individuals for their leadership in supporting student mental wellness:

• Annie Beyer

• Tia Fagan

• Tricia Norby

• Angela Willits

These community leaders demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting the well-being of Mount Horeb students and families. Their dedication and passion helped strengthen awareness and resources related to mental health in the community.

The Board recognized Rod Hise, Tim Killinger, and Peter Walton as Friends of Education for their leadership and advocacy during the district’s Facilities Steering Committee process and referendum efforts.

From the earliest planning stages through the final vote, these individuals championed the needs of students and the future of the district. Their continued involvement with the district’s Building Design Team provided valuable insight and perspective during the implementation phase.