PBS Reno is proud to recognize individuals, organizations, and businesses making a significant impact on the region with the 2022 Spotlight Awards!

Extraordinary Educator

This award recognizes an educator who has distinguished themselves in their community; by going above and beyond the regular duties of an educator to truly make an impact on a school, district, college, or community. Eligible nominees must be located in PBS Reno’s northern Nevada and northeastern California viewing areas.

Award Category sponsored by

2022 FINALISTS | Extraordinary Educator

WINNER

DON ANGOTTI

Don Angotti is truly a one-of-a-kind educator. As the principal of Poulakidas Elementary, he puts students, families, and staff as a top priority. He is involved within the school and community. Mr. Angotti always has time to listen and will always help in any way he can. Whether that means greeting parents every morning and afternoon, directing traffic in the pick-up line, or doing whatever it takes to motivate his students, Mr. Angotti has gained a reputation of being a privilege to work with and for.

FINALIST

JEFF BATAVIA

Jeff Batavia is the amazing principal at Rollan Melton Elementary. His loving and joyful presence is on display every day. He plays music during morning announcements for the students, knows every student by name, and treats each child with kindness. Parents and students alike are grateful to have Jeff Batavia as an educator in the community.

FINALIST

KRISTY MCMILLAN

Kristy McMillan strives to make her student’s school year amazing. After the affected educational experiences as a result of distance education during the lockdown, many children struggled to learn like other children. Ms. McMillan understood the potential issues resulting from distance learning for some students and worked hard to help them regain their confidence. This is what an extraordinary educator does—they believe in the child and love them when they don't believe in themselves. They keep striving for the next goal and they never give up.