Kristi Knaak
Maxey Elementary
Paraeducator
Nominated By: Principal Suzanne Reimers
Kristi Knaak has been a para-educator in special education since 2014. After we hired Kristi it became apparent that her talent was working with students' behavioral and social-emotional needs. Kristi takes the time to get to know each of her students. She knows when a student needs a hug, encouragement, or even a little tough love. She loves unconditionally and forgives often. On the hardest day she can make anyone, teachers included, laugh and find a reason to smile. Kristi is someone who will always have your back figuratively and literally!
Not only does Kristi serve the students at Maxey, but also the adults. Kristi builds positive relationships with the adults in the building. She serves as our para-educator liaison for LPS and works hard to listen to concerns from other paras in the building and address them with the appropriate channels in a positive way. She brings joy to the day as she shares cute stories about students with the staff which brings a smile or chuckle to the day. Her attendance is excellent; she knows the students count on her and she will not let them down. Quite often we hear, "Ms. Kristi!!!!" when students see her in the hallway and the phrase is always accompanied by a hug. Kristi is such an asset to Maxey School, but especially to LPS!
