Crocker, Burke named Bridgeport school Employees of the Year

BRIDGEPORT – While the coronavirus pandemic put a damper on many aspects of everyday life, it could not tarnish some of the outstanding work delivered by members of the Bridgeport School District staff. Two of those, Denise Crocker, and Craig Burke, have been recognized as Employees of the Year.

The COVID-19 emergency closure included this year’s Okanogan County Excellence banquet, but Bridgeport School Superintendent Scott Sattler reached out to local media to recognize the accomplishments of both staffers.

Crocker, a paraprofessional at Bridgeport Middle School is this year’s Classified Employee of the Year.

“Denise does it all at the middle school and clearly loves the job,” said Sattler. “She works closely with our Special Education Department to provide instructional support for small groups, one-on-one instruction, helps modify materials, collects student data, and monitors hallways and the cafeteria.”

Sattler describes Crocker as kind, patient, a great listener, and the friendly face students see when first entering the building in the morning. She is also on hand at the crosswalk at the end of the day to look out for students’ safety.

“In a moment’s notice, Denise is the one who steps in to help and support, without hesitation,” said Sattler. “Denise is there when you need her, a great colleague and puts students first in all she does.”

Burke, the Certified Employee of the Year, is a P.E. teacher at Bridgeport Elementary School.

“Craig is a hard-working teacher that loves what he does,” said Sattler. “He teaches his students the value of physical fitness and emphasizes that every student is unique with their own strengths.”

Sattler said Burke is always challenging his students to do their best at every turn as he teaches a variety of sports and games over the course of a year.

“Craig is a great team-player, always willing to help staff and students in the building however he can,” said Sattler. “When he isn’t teaching his class, you can find him helping by covering classes, providing recess supervision, monitoring students during end-of-the-day pickup and other activities.”

Sattler said that during the construction process, Burke was without a classroom but seamlessly adapted to the changes without complaint and still provided his students with an outstanding P.E. experience.

“He is a positive role model for students and help bring joy to their day,” Sattler said of Burke.