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.

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 February C.A.K.E. Award, which stands for Character, Attitude, Kindness, and Encouragement, has been awarded to two outstanding learners. Congratulations to Krozby Arnold and William Kosmicki.  Krozby is a 5th-grade learner attending Lewis & Clark Elementary, and William is a 12th-grade learner attending Highland High School.  

Krozby was nominated by Mallery Davie. In her nomination letter Ms. Davie wrote, “I am delighted to nominate Krozby Arnold for the CAKE Award because he truly embodies positivity and kindness. With a smile always on his face, Krozby has a charisma that brightens the day of everyone around him. I have never seen him without a grin from cheek to cheek! His cheerful demeanor creates an inviting atmosphere, making our school feel more welcoming and connected.

Krozby’s positivity is contagious. Whether it’s in the classroom, during group activities, or playing football out at recess, he approaches every situation with an uplifting attitude. His encouraging words and genuine support motivate his classmates to give their best, even during challenging moments. I’ve seen him lift the spirits of those around him, reminding us that a positive outlook can make all the difference. Krozby also leads by example, demonstrating integrity in everything he does.

Upon talking with Krozby’s 5th grade Teacher Mrs. Vega, she shared some kind words, saying: ‘Krozby is such a great learner. He always has a positive attitude about any situation and always gives his best effort in everything that he does. Krozby never hesitates to help any of his peers when they are in need.’

Krozby Arnold is a shining example of positivity and kindness. His ever-present smile, supportive nature, and integrity make him a deserving candidate for the CAKE award. I am grateful to have him in our school community, inspiring us all to embrace kindness and positivity every day!”

William was nominated by Jason Stucki. In his nomination letter Mr. Stucki wrote, “I am honored to nominate Will Kosmicki, a senior at Highland High School, for the C.A.K.E. Award. Will embodies Character, Attitude, Kindness, and Encouragement every day in my math class. Though he faces challenges, Will shows up each day with a positive attitude, determined to learn and build friendships.

Will is an active participant in class, always giving his best effort, even when things don’t come easily. No matter what his grade is, Will’s perseverance, work ethic, and determination speak volumes about his character. He never lets difficulties discourage him, and his presence brightens the classroom. His kindness and genuine attempts to connect with others make a lasting impact on his peers.

Will is a beam of light, bringing warmth and encouragement to those around him. His resilience and dedication to both his education and his relationships make him highly deserving of this recognition. I am grateful to have him in my class and inspired by the example he sets for others.”

Krozby and William were recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Our Partner for this award, Johnson Family McDonald's, provides each learner and their nominators with a gift card, along with $50 to purchase books for the school’s media center in the recipients’ names.

PCSD 25 believes a safe, supportive, caring and respectful environment is critical to student learning. The District Education Foundation, in partnership with McDonald’s, supports the Learner-of-the-Month C.A.K.E. Award to recognize students who show great character.  The district recognizes one elementary learner and one secondary learner from October through May. Nominations for the C.A.K.E. Award are submitted by a teacher who has observed the nominee’s behavior, and are approved by the school’s principal.