News & Events

Please join us in celebrating an outstanding educator! 

We’re proud to announce that Codie Renz, 4th grade teacher at Lewis & Clark Elementary School, has been named a finalist for the 2025 Simplot Inspirational Teacher of the Year!

This year, the Simplot Education Council received an incredible 2,617 nominations recognizing 402 exceptional teachers across Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. Finalists will be spotlighted daily through Thursday, May 15, 2025.

On Friday, May 16, 2025, three Simplot Inspirational Teacher Awards will be announced—honoring one exceptional teacher each from the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Each category features five finalists, all of whom will receive a $100 award, with the top recipient in each group earning a $500 prize from the Council.

Congratulations to Ms. Renz on this well-deserved recognition!

“Ms. Renz is one of the kindest teachers you will ever meet. She works diligently to build relationships with her learners. She is always cruising away in her teaching jam and pushing learners to do their best. She is always inviting learners and their friends to enjoy their lunch in her classroom, her classroom is very warm, cozy and welcoming”.  February H.

“I think Ms. Renz should receive the Simplot Inspirational Teacher Award because of her humorous, thoughtful, and inspirational personality. She is funny, helpful, and fabulous.” Alphy S.

Dear Ms. Renz, thank you for being my teacher. You helped me with everything from my tough times to my happy times. You were the best teacher anyone could ask for. You made me excited to come to school. I have some of the best memories from being in your class. Ismael G. 

This summer, two Lewis & Clark learners were selected to attend the Pathways to STEM Program. Trey Weiss and Ben Blodgett were both nominated by Mr. Mettinger for the National Youth Leadership Forum - Pathways to STEM. There were multiple locations for them to choose from. They both raised the money and traveled to Denver for the conference.